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PLAYMONSTER GROW STRATEGIC SALES CHANNELS WITH NEW HIRES MELANIE BAILEY AND DAVE TRENTMAN

BELOIT, Wis. (March 20, 2023) – Leading international toy and game company PlayMonster Group LLC today announced the growth of its sales division as it welcomes Melanie Bailey, National Account Manager, and Dave Trentman, Sales Manager Value Channel. The two toy and game veterans will lead PlayMonster’s specialty business and value channels, respectively.

“Melanie and Dave are sales powerhouses who will be key in propelling PlayMonster’s trajectory in two strategic channels, as the retail landscape continues to evolve,” said Steve Adolph, PlayMonster CEO. “They are industry pros who have a proven track record in building long-standing relationships while delivering product and innovation to their partners. We’re thrilled to welcome them both during this pivotal time for PlayMonster.”

Bailey, who started with the company on February 13, and Trentman, who joined on February 20, have roles defined as follows:

Bailey

As national account manager, Bailey primarily focuses on providing proper structure for PlayMonster’s independent representatives and growing the company’s partnerships with thousands of specialty retailers across the globe. Bailey comes to PlayMonster most recently from HearthSong Wholesale, where she launched the organization’s new wholesale division and managed co-op relationships with retailers such as The Good Toy Group, Toy Collection, Learning Express, ACE Hardware, and Mid-States, as well as international accounts. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business from the University of South Carolina.

“The opportunity to join PlayMonster initially attracted me because of the company’s forward-thinking mentality,” said Bailey. “Especially now, independent retailers hold such a sacred space for our industry, and I’m excited to continue to grow PlayMonster’s presence in this area.”

Trentman

Leading the organization’s value channel, Trentman is the incumbent in this position – working closely alongside the Brand Teams to analyze customer trends and then applying this knowledge to positioning PlayMonster with value retailers. Prior to joining PlayMonster, Trentman served as a senior manager of national accounts with Mattel, Inc., where he maintained relationships with retailers such as Dollar General, Family Dollar, 5 Below, .99 Cent Stores, Nexcom, as well as military accounts. He is a graduate of Northern Kentucky University, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in business management.

“The value channel is such an integral part of the toy and game world, especially as consumers form new purchasing behaviors,” said Trentman. “I’m honored to further build PlayMonster’s strategy in this area and showcase its iconic portfolio of treasured toys and games, and new ones, too.”

For more about PlayMonster, visit www.playmonster.com and follow @playmonsterfun on social media.

 

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About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives of all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games, and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as Koosh®, Playskool, Spirograph®, The Magical World of Disney Trivia, “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, THINGS…®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Colorforms, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships® and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™, and Sticker & Chill™.

 

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PLAYMONSTER’S MAGNATAB MINIS NAMED 2023 TOY TREND BY THE TOY ASSOCIATION

This Brand-New Product Allows for Creative, Sensory and On-the-Go Fidget Fun

BELOIT, Wis. (March 13, 2023) — PlayMonster Group LLC., a leading international toy and game company, announced today the launch of the Magnatab Minis line, which has been named as part of the 2023 Toy Association trends report. The new product line will be available for consumer purchase in April 2023 at Barnes & Noble and aims to bring all the satisfying fidget fun of Magnatab to a tween and kidult audience.

PlayMonster’s successful preschool Magnatab® brand is a Montessori-learning-inspired, sensory-based drawing tablet that uses magnets and a stylus to teach writing and free drawing. Though created for a younger audience, Magnatab has become a popular toy in the ASMR and fidget sphere due to the satisfying “click” of the beads.  On TikTok alone, #Magnatab has garnered over 29 million views. PlayMonster saw an opportunity to expand the reach of the brand, and Magnatab Minis™ was created!

Like the original, Magnatab Minis allows kids and adults alike to hear that gratifying clicking sound but in a mini, portable version. These new collectible clips are a sensory and fidget toy that is easy to enjoy everywhere you go!

“At PlayMonster we’re always innovating and thinking ‘what’s next?’ and with the popularity of our Magnatab brand in both consumer purchasing and on social media, we knew we had to launch an on-the-go version that would allow fidget fun no matter where you are,” said Steve Adolph, CEO of PlayMonster. “We look forward to the continued growth of the brand and are eager to see the consumer response to this exciting new product.”

The Toy Association, the leader of today’s dynamic and innovative toy and play industry, recently presented its annual “Toy Trends Briefing” at the 2023 Play Date event and named Magnatab Minis as part of their Tween Takeover trend. This 2023 trend is an extension of the 2022 Play for All trend which indicates adults (kidults) enjoy playtime just as much as kids.

Keeping kids, teens, tweens and kidults in mind, new Magnatab Mini designs will be released this spring and consumers are encouraged to collect each product. The Magnatab Minis will feature trendy avocado, cactus, and lightning bolt shapes on a classic backpack clip for on-the-go fidget fun.

For more about PlayMonster, please visit playmonster.com and follow @playmonsterfun on social media.

 

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Specialty Toy of the Year” Craft-tastic® Nature Scavenger Hunt Potions, “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus 5 Second Rule®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Koosh®, Playskool®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

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PLAYMONSTER APPOINTS STEVE ADOLPH AS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Steve Adolph

Tim Kilpin transitions to Executive Chairman

 

BELOIT, Wis. (February 18, 2023) — Leading international toy and game company PlayMonster Group LLC announced today that Tim Kilpin will transition to the newly created role of Executive Chairman and a member of the Board of Directors, focusing on long-term opportunities and partnerships and leading the search for acquisitions. Sitting President, Steve Adolph has now been appointed to Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

“Adolph is an inspiring leader,” says Kilpin. “His depth of hands-on experience in consumer and retail makes him the ideal choice to accelerate PlayMonster to the next level and capture the opportunities ahead of us.”

Adolph has skillfully steered and executed the company’s global business strategy and operations in his brief time at PlayMonster. The global business leader was brought on board as President in September and worked alongside Kilpin on strategic initiatives and growth in the organization.

“I’m thrilled to be assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer of PlayMonster,” says Adolph. “I am grateful to Tim for his support and mentorship over the past few months, and to the entire organization for their confidence in my leadership. I look forward to ensuring that PlayMonster continues to amplify its strong global foothold in the toy and game industry.”

With a dynamic new range of 2023 product launches, PlayMonster continues to aggressively build its portfolio of brands and significantly scale the company’s growth and leadership position within the toy industry, both domestically and internationally.

For more about PlayMonster, visit www.playmonster.com and follow @playmonsterfun on social media.

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About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Specialty Toy of the Year” Craft-tastic® Nature Scavenger Hunt Potions, “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus 5 Second Rule®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Koosh®, Playskool®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263 x1275
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

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PLAYMONSTER TAKES THE “BAH HUMBUG” OUT OF HOLIDAY TRAVEL WITH THESE AWARD-WINNING GAMES AND ACTIVITIES

Travel Game

BELOIT, Wis. (Monday December 5th, 2022)– The end-of-year travel season is notorious for being one of the busiest times of the year. And according to a new US 2022 Holiday Purchase Intentions Study by The NPD Group, more than half (55%) of consumers are planning to go to a friend or family member’s home for the holidays, an increase from 47% in 2021.

Whether you’re traveling via planes, trains or automobiles, or have some downtime at a hotel, PlayMonster has award-winning games and activities that are worth packing this holiday season, including crafts for the road, and trivia and crime-solving board games for the destination. Perfect to keep the “are we there yet?” crowd at bay!

A leading international toy and game company, PlayMonster champions the power of play by creating quality toys and games for children, adults and families alike; delivering great play value that offers a reprieve from too much-screen time, and rising costs.

“As you are packing for your holiday travels to see family and friends, don’t forget to pack a fun activity to pass the time and a new game to play with everyone when you arrive,” says Lisa Wuennemann, VP global marketing communications at PlayMonster. “When prices of everyday items are rising, games and activities offer incredible play value for the price.”

Award-winning games, include:

Disney Trivia

Combine the magic of the Holidays with the Magical World of Disney with the trivia game that takes you on a journey through time. Answer 2,000 trivia questions spanning nearly 100 years of Disney history, from the very first Walt Disney production to the modern Disney and Pixar titles of today.

Ages: 6+

MSRP: $34.99

Available: Amazon, Walmart, Meijer, Barnes and Noble

Criminal Minds UNknown SUBject

Add a little mystery to your holidays with this fast-paced social deduction game based on the hit TV show Criminal Minds! Featuring characters and crime-solving from

the TV show Criminal Minds, this social deduction, interactive party game challenges players to think like a criminal to catch the killer among them. Play as fan-favorite FBI

Behavioral Analysis Unit agents to build the profile and catch the killer, or play as an UnSub and try to escape the authorities and get away with murder.

Ages: 14+

MSRP: $29.99

Available: Barnes and NobleAmazon, Kohls

 5 Second Rule 4th edition

Nothing brings the family together like a fun little challenge this Holiday season. Enjoy the family-favorite 5 Second Rule, now with all-new content! Draw a card like: Name 3 Magic Words. Sounds easy—but can you do it under the pressure of 5 seconds twisting down, and with the other players staring at you, waiting for you to get flustered? Time’s not on your side, so just say what comes to mind and risk ridiculous answers slipping out! It’s all in good fun with this fast-paced game where you have to Just Spit it Out!

Ages: 10+

MSRP: $19.99

Available: Target

Five Crowns

Nice and compact to slip into a suitcase or bag while you travel, Five Crowns is an award-winning, classic game that is a quick favorite and features a unique double deck that contains five suits: spades, clubs, hearts, diamonds and stars! This special deck makes it easier to arrange your entire hand into books and runs. The rotating wild card keeps players on their toes! Make the right combinations, be the first to go out, then watch players scramble as they get one last chance to cut their losses! The game isn’t over ‘til the Kings go wild!®

Ages: 8+

MSRP: $12.99

Available: Walmart, Target, Barnes and Noble, Meijer, Walgreens

Award-winning activities include:

Spirograph 3D

Perfect for some quiet time while you’re on the road! The classic way to create countless amazing designs, Spirograph turns a blank page into a beautiful work of art. Inspiring generations of artists for over 50 years, Spirograph is taking their classic spiral-design sets to new heights with the new 3D set. Combining the time-tested creativity with 3D fun, Spirograph 3D allows young artists to create amazing art that pops right off the paper! Make endless dimensional designs that will dazzle your eyes!

Ages 8+

MSRP: $20.99

Available: Walmart, Meijer, Kohl’s

 Little Knitty Bittys

Keep little hands busy until you get to your destination with Little Knitty Bittys! Available to buy individually, kids can get creative as they knit adorable outfits for their Little Knitty Bitty bear, fox or bunny characters. Each Little Knitty Bitty kit comes complete with a 4″ animal figure, yarn, needle, round-shaped knitting loom and knitting wand. Sets also come with step-by-step instructions on creating outfits and accessories for each figure.

Ages 7+

MSRP: $18.99

Available:  Amazon, Joann

For more information about PlayMonster, visit www.playmonster.com.

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About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh® and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

 Contact:
Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

 

Dessy Danishwar
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
(905) 805-1024
ddanishwar@beaconmediagrp.com

 

 

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PLAYMONSTER INSPIRES CREATIVITY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH CRAFTY CAKES & LITTLE KNITTY BITTYS

Pm Crafty Cakes Lkb Hero Image

Get your crafting hands ready!

BELOIT, Wis. (October 25, 2022) — Just in time for a season of indoor crafts and activities, PlayMonster announces the launch of their newest Crafty Cakes and Little Knitty Bittys brands for families looking to create fantastic decorative cake designs, or adorable yarn outfits for an animal friend!

Whatever your crafting interests, if you love adorable crafts, you’ll love these! Crafty Cakes and Little Knitty Bittys are set to introduce a world of exciting activities that are ready for your holiday wishlist.

“We understand parents are always on the lookout for products that can bring new and engaging experiences to their children,” says Lisa Wuennemann, global VP marketing communications at PlayMonster. “With Crafty Cakes and Little Knitty Bittys, we’re excited to see children spend time away from a screen and try out these new activities.”

Crafty Cakes

Families who love the excitement behind cake decorating, but not the mess it leaves behind, are in for a treat! Launching in Magicorn Glitter, Sweetdazzle Drizzle and Fantasea Shimmer versions, each Crafty Cake includes a ‘cake,’ Crafty cake base, display pedestal, spatula for decorating, Crafty ‘cream’, craft ‘drizzle’, sprinkles, over 25 decorating pieces and a surprise collectible cake topper for an impressive and creative finishing touch. Since these cakes are inedible, one can say these cakes are literally too good to eat!

Suitable for kids ages 5 and up, each Crafty Cakes set can be purchased individually for $14.99 USD.

Little Knitty Bittys

Little Knitty Bittys makes the perfect stocking stuffer for kids who love to craft! Available to buy individually, kids can get creative as they knit adorable outfits for their Little Knitty Bitty bear, fox and bunny characters. 

Each Little Knitty Bitty kit comes complete with a 4″ animal figure, yarn, needle, round-shaped knitting loom and knitting wand. Sets also come with step-by-step instructions on creating outfits and accessories for each figure. Everything you need to keep kids entertained over the holidays and during snow days! They’re also great for enjoying with parents, grandparents or friends to teach kids the basics of knitting.

This beginner loom-knitting set is available now from amazon.com and is suitable for ages 7 and up. MSRP $18.99 USD.

 

About PlayMonster 

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

For more information on the latest products from PlayMonster, please visit www.playmonster.com 

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For more information, please contact: 

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263 x275
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Kassandra O’Brien
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
289.264.6499
kobrien@beaconmediagrp.com

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PLAYMONSTER AND PASTABILITIES CELEBRATE NATIONAL PASTA DAY WITH YETI PASTA!

Yims Press Release 2 1

Brand-new yeti-shaped pasta set to delight fans of the much-loved Yeti in My Spaghetti game!

BELOIT, Wis. (October 17, 2022) — Two of the most family-friendly brands want to add some excitement to family night! Launching today on national pasta day, Yeti in My Spaghetti and Pastabilities are releasing a limited edition Yeti Pasta and family game bundle for families looking to create fun memories and a delicious meal!

Pastabilities, producers of fun and unique pasta, and PlayMonster, manufacturers of the award-winning Yeti in My Spaghetti game, are excited to announce the limited-edition launch of Yeti Pasta.

“With this first-ever colab of Yeti Pasta and our Yeti in My Spaghetti game, we’re excited to see families spend quality time together,” says Lisa Wuennemann, global VP marketing at PlayMonster. “A family dinner and game night has never been so much fun.”

With pasta being an all-round family favorite and the well-known Yeti character from the popular family game being so adored by kids, Yeti Pasta is expected to be a huge hit. This limited edition pasta product contains only the very best premium ingredients. Parents can trust that their children are eating quality food that will tempt even the pickiest of eaters to enjoy a tasty Yeti Pasta dish.

“As a long-time fan of Yeti in My Spaghetti, the opportunity to work with PlayMonster to create healthy and fun pasta designs was a dream come true,” says Carey Aron, president at The Pasta Shoppe, the company behind the Pastabilities brand. “It has been amazing to combine our love of healthy pasta with a game that families adore and we’re excited to share our new Yeti pasta with everyone and celebrate national pasta day.”

Available exclusively for purchase online at Pastabilities starting today, pasta fans can purchase the game and pasta bundle for $19.99 USD, one pack of Yeti Pasta for $6.99 USD, or two for $9.99 USD.

To learn more about the game, please visit us at playmonster.com and follow our socials, below:

 To learn more about Pastabilities and discover amazing recipe ideas, please visit the following socials:

 For more information, visit playmonster.com

 

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives of all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as Koosh®, Playskool, Spirograph®, The Magical World of Disney Trivia, “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, THINGS…®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Colorforms, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships® and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

About The Pasta Shoppe LLC

The Pasta Shoppe LLC is a specialty pasta manufacturer creating fun, unique, and heathy pasta products. For nearly thirty years, the Pastabilities® brand has innovated the wheat to make it work for the ever-changing needs of pasta lovers. Pastabilities is now the delicious answer for vegans, kids, seniors, and anyone who wants healthier noodles that still taste like the pasta they know and love. Because we manufacture using only premium ingredients, better-for-you food has never been more well received by families and fans of pasta everywhere. (Check out our thousands of 5-star reviews!) Discover why The World is Full of Pastabilities® at www.pastashoppe.com

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Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Kassandra O’Brien
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
(289) 264-6499
kobrien@beaconmediagrp.com

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PLAYMONSTER LAUNCHES KOOSH CAMEOS FEATURING CHARACTERS FROM STARS WARS AND JURASSIC WORLD!

Image Of Products

PLAYMONSTER REIMAGINES HASBRO’s ICONIC CLASSIC BRAND KOOSH® BALL WITH MUST-HAVE LICENSES!

 

BELOIT, Wis. (October 6, 2022)PlayMonster Group LLC is bringing fandom to the palm of your hands with the launch of new Koosh Cameos, the iconic brand from Hasbro, a global branded entertainment company! For a limited time, fans can pick up four all-new Koosh character collectibles (two from Jurassic World and two from Star Wars, The Mandalorian), inspired by the brand that brought the world the iconic Koosh Ball!

These collectible Koosh items combined with sculpts of classic fan-favorite characters gives fans of all ages an opportunity to showcase their fandom in a #KeepItKoosh way! Whether your goal is to play or display these products, consumers are in for a treat this fall!

“As a team of long-time Star Wars and Jurassic World fans, we’re very excited to share these fan-favorite characters, in Koosh form!” says Sakita Withers, Global Brand Manager at PlayMonster. “These brand-new collectible products are the first in our new Koosh Cameos product line, and we can’t wait to share them and expand on the line’s character variety in future launches!”

Following the brand’s successful launch of the Koosh Flix Stix with YouTube mega-stars Dude Perfect this past August, the team is ready for another big win. Koosh Cameos will be available soon at an Amazon, BAM or Kohl’s retailer near you, make sure you keep an eye out for these highly-anticipated, fan-favorite Koosh items:

Jurassic World Cameos | Ages 8+ | $12.99

The classic Koosh ball is reimagined as stylized Jurassic World characters! Keeping the same satisfying Koosh texture and movement, celebrated Jurassic World characters will come to life in Koosh form for a limited-edition collectors series.

 

The Mandalorian Cameos | Ages 8+ | $12.99

Celebrated Star Wars characters will come to life in the form of Koosh collectible figures! Featuring the adorable Grogu and The Mandalorian from Emmy-winning Star Wars The Mandalorian franchise for a limited-edition collectors series.

 

To learn more about Koosh Cameos, and everything PlayMonster, please visit Playmonster.com.

 

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

About Lucasfilm Ltd.

Founded by George Lucas in 1971, Lucasfilm is a privately held, fully-integrated entertainment company. In addition to its motion-picture and television production operations, the company’s global activities include Industrial Light & Magic and Skywalker Sound, serving the digital needs of the entertainment industry for visual-effects and audio post-production; LucasArts, a leading developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software worldwide; Lucas Licensing, which manages the global merchandising activities for Lucasfilm’s entertainment properties; Lucasfilm Animation; and Lucas Online creates Internet-based content for Lucasfilm’s entertainment properties and businesses. Additionally, Lucasfilm Singapore, produces digital animated content for film and television, as well as visual effects for feature films and multi-platform games. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in San Francisco, California.

About Jurassic World

From Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment, Jurassic World immerses audiences of all ages in a new era of wonder and thrills where dinosaurs and humankind must learn to coexist. Jurassic World is more than a film franchise. At every turn, this $5 billion film series delivers a larger-than-life destination for exploration, discovery, and epic adventure. Dinosaurs live again and they live in Jurassic World.

About Hasbro

Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to making the world a better place for all children, fans and families. Hasbro delivers immersive brand experiences for global audiences through consumer products, including toys and games; entertainment through eOne, its independent studio; and gaming, led by the team at Wizards of the Coast, an award-winning developer of tabletop and digital games best known for fantasy franchises MAGIC: THE GATHERING and DUNGEONS & DRAGONS.

The company’s unparalleled portfolio of approximately 1,500 brands includes MAGIC: THE GATHERING, NERF, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, BABY ALIVE, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, POWER RANGERS, PEPPA PIG and PJ MASKS, as well as premier partner brands. For the past decade, Hasbro has been consistently recognized for its corporate citizenship, including being named one of the 100 Best Corporate Citizens by 3BL Media and one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute. Important business and brand updates are routinely shared on our Investor Relations website, Newsroom and social channels (@Hasbro on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.)

 

© 2022 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263 x275
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Kassandra O’Brien
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
289.264.6499
kobrien@beaconmediagrp.com

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PLAYMONSTER WINS COVETED TOY OF THE YEAR AWARD FOR CRAFT-TASTIC!

Playmonster Toty

Craft-tastic Nature: Scavenger Hunt Potions Conjures up a Specialty Toy of the Year Award! 

BELOIT, Wis –  (September 21, 2022) PlayMonster Group LLC is proud to announce that Craft-tastic Nature: Scavenger Hunt Potions has been awarded a Toy of the Year (TOTY) Award, the industry’s most prestigious honor  in the Specialty Toy category. Loved by both kids and parents, this popular activity kit is known for the fun and creativity it inspires, along with a true appreciation for the wonder of nature.

 

For the passionate team of toy enthusiasts behind the Craft-tastic brand, helping children and families explore new ways to engage and discover the nature around them has been a goal when creating the Craft-tastic Nature: Scavenger Hunt Potions kit. As PlayMonster’s beloved crafts kit receives the industry-recognized TOTY Award, the team behind the product hopes more children will have the chance to go outside and create magical potions of their own!

 

“It’s such an honor to know that a toy that brings crafts and activities outdoors has resonated so much with families, enough for it to earn its own Toy of the Year Award!” says Wendy Hartling, Director of Activity Toys. “There’s nature all around us, and our team of toy inventors are thrilled to know the Craft-tastic Nature: Scavenger Hunt Potions kit is doing exactly what it’s researched and made to do: help families get creative and learn more about the environment.”

 

The TOTY Awards are often referred to as the “Oscars” of the toy industry and the winners are determined by elite members of the toy industry, including play experts, journalists, academics, retailers, and other toy experts.

“We are thrilled to bring the industry together to celebrate the best of the best in toy,” said Pamela Mastrota, Executive Director of The Toy Foundation. “It’s inspiring to see the imagination and creativity behind every toy and the industry’s collective focus to deliver the extraordinary benefits of play to both children and adults.”

Craft-tastic Nature: Scavenger Hunt Potions

Adventure out into nature with Scavenger Hunt Potions! Go outside and collect magical, natural ingredients, then combine them to create special magic potions! There are enough materials to make seven potions—and the bottles can be reused again and again! Make a Sunshine Potion, Rainbow Potion or create your own Nature Potion! This kit is perfect for getting children out into the environment and appreciating their natural world. Instructions come with 7 potion recipes and space to write in your own.

Ages 4+

MSRP  $19.99

For more information about Craft-tastic Nature: Scavenger Potions, and other award-winning Craft-tastic items, visit amazon.com.

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Allison Yakeley
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
ayakeley@beaconmediagrp.com

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THE ENCHANTED WORLD OF PLAYMONSTER’S MY FAIRY GARDEN™ FLOURISHES WITH DALLAS TOY FAIR REVEALS!

Toty 22

Watch your world grow with new collectible characters, accessories and plants to bring your garden to life! 

BELOIT, Wis. (September 19, 2022) — Making its debut at Dallas Toy Fair, PlayMonster’s re-launch of My Fairy Garden™ makes a bold statement with new style, added play value and a focus on planting and nurturing with each of the unique fairies and their homes! Located at Booth #12-1001 on the Dallas Market Center’s show floor, visitors will get a first look into this enchanting fairy world from September 20th to September 22nd!

Visitors will experience the reveal of the My Fairy Garden™ line, featuring six new stunning grow-and-play sets, including Blossom Balloon, Hedgehog Haven, Well of Wishes, Nettles’ Nook, Twilight Treehouse, and Hop’s Hideaway. All sets are rooted in nature and feature six highly-detailed and articulated fairies centered around an earthly component: sun, air, water, earth, light, shadow, and dream. Each set also includes a Plantimal friend, removable growing areas, seeds for edible plants, hidden surprises and added play features. Plus, a special fairy field guide will provide children with an introduction to the fairy world and encourage participation in nature activities and projects! Each My Fairy Garden pack purchased contributes a donation to My Fairy Garden’s partnership with One Tree Planted, which helps to reforest the world.

“We’re incredibly excited to share how My Fairy Garden can make an impact on families, and the environment with its enchanting sweet style,” says Wendy Hartling, director of activity toys at PlayMonster. “It is a uniquely rewarding experience that opens a world of storytelling through grow and play.”

Launching in Spring 2023 with a fully-integrated marketing campaign, attendees can visit PlayMonster’s My Fairy Garden™ at Booth #12-1001 to find the following products from the brand’s 2023 product line:

 

My Fairy Garden Twilight Treehouse | $29.99 | Ages 4+

Welcome to the Fairy Realm! Join Rae the Light Fairy and her adorable Plantimal friend, Hop, and grow & play in your own magical Fairy Garden! Sow the seeds provided in the growing area, then tend to and nurture them with the garden accessories and watering can and watch them grow! Rae’s fairy lantern illuminates her Twilight Treehouse home for hours of fairy magic and play! Sit inside the treehouse and have a party with Hop and Rae, or have them swing on the branch outside. 

My Fairy Garden Hedgehog Haven | $19.99 | Ages 4+

Join Tara the Earth Fairy and her adorable Plantimal friends Twigs, Quill, and Prickles, and grow & play in your own magical Fairy Garden! Sow the red cabbage seeds provided, nurture them and watch your plants grow! The mushroom house has space for the Hoglets to sit at the table, and also have a nap in the rotating leaf beds. There’s even a little basket winch for a fun ride from the beds down to the seating area! The Hoglets can also go for a ride in the wheelbarrow and play on the leaf swings. Hours of fun for everyone! Also in the pack is a special Fairy Field Guide which tells you all about Fairy Tara and includes other nature activities and projects.

 

My Fairy Garden Blossom Balloon | $19.99 | Ages 4+

Welcome to the Fairy Realm! Join Skye the Air Fairy and her adorable Plantimal friend, Snap, and grow & play in your own magical Fairy Garden! Sow the coriander seeds provided in the growing area, then tend to and nurture them with the garden accessories and watering can and watch them grow! Land the pretty flower-shaped balloon on the tree branch or take Skye and Snap on an exciting flying adventure. Blow the flowers on the branches to make them spin! Also in the pack is a special Fairy Field Guide which tells you all about Fairy Skye and includes other nature activities and projects. 

 

My Fairy Garden Well of Wishes | $14.99 | Ages 4+

Join Kai the Water Fairy and her adorable Plantimal friend, Kibo, and grow & play in your own magical Fairy Garden! Sow the red amaranth seeds provided to create a magical, edible garden for Kai and Kibo. Add water to the separate pond section for Kibo to swim in, and fill the well to discover the secret surprise! Then use the well to fill the watering can to water your garden! Also in the pack is a special Fairy Field Guide which tells you all about Fairy Kai and includes other nature activities and projects.

My Fairy Garden Hop’s Hideaway | $12.99 | Ages 4+
Join Rae the Light Fairy and her adorable Plantimal friend, Hop, and grow & play in your own magical Fairy Garden! Sow the cornflower seeds provided to create a magical garden for Rae and Hop. Hop even has his own house to keep an eye on the garden and watch the plants grow. Also in the pack is a special Fairy Field Guide which tells you all about Fairy Rae and includes other nature activities and projects. 

My Fairy Garden Nettles’ Nook | $12.99 | Ages 4+

Join Luna the Shadow Fairy and her adorable Plantimal friend, Nettles, and grow & play in your own magical Fairy Garden! Sow the purple radish seeds provided to create a magical, edible garden for Luna and Nettles. Nettles even has their own house to watch over the garden and perhaps also have a nap. Also in the pack is a special Fairy Field Guide which tells you all about Fairy Luna and includes other nature activities and projects.

 

For more information on the latest products from PlayMonster and My Fairy Garden™, please visit https://www.playmonster.com

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh® and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

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For More Information, Please Contact:  

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com 

 

Allison Yakeley (on behalf of PlayMonster)
ayakeley@beaconmediagrp.com

Posted on

PLAYMONSTER ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS TO FUEL GLOBAL STRATEGIC GROWTH

Steve Adolph Playmonster Headshot Sept 2022 E1663250665193

Steve Adolph joins as President; Sharon Fosbery promoted to Chief Brands & Strategy Officer

 

BELOIT, Wis. (September 15, 2022) — PlayMonster Group LLC., a leading international toy and game company, announces that global business leader Steve Adolph has joined the company as President, and Sharon Fosbery has been promoted to Chief Brands & Strategy Officer to join the company leadership team.

Having served as president and CEO at a range of companies throughout his career, Adolph has extensive global retail operations leadership experience in both consumer and business-to-business sectors, working with leading blue-chip clients including Amazon, Apple, Coke, Facebook, Intel, P&G, Red Bull, Samsung, Target and Walmart.

Reporting to CEO Tim Kilpin, Adolph will work alongside Kilpin on strategic initiatives and growth in the organization with a primary focus on global operations.

Also joining the senior leadership team from her previous role as Sales and Marketing Director for PlayMonster UK is Sharon Fosbery. In the newly created position of Chief Brands & Strategy Officer, she will focus on developing and driving long-term global brand strategy across the organization. Fosbery brings a powerful toy and game marketing background of 25 years, in which she has helped shape the long-term strategic direction for a number of brands and companies, including PlayMonster, University Games and Hasbro.

“We have set the stage for a new era of growth here at PlayMonster, and both Steve and Sharon bring a strong measure of strategic leadership in marketing and operations that will serve us well as we step into the next phase of our global success,” says CEO Tim Kilpin.  “As we head to Dallas with an incredibly strong team in place, we are excited to present the most innovative, consumer-tested toy lines we have ever launched, and this is just the beginning of the amazing growth of PlayMonster.”

With a strong 2022 performance and a dynamic new range of 2023 product launches showing in this fall’s retail previews, PlayMonster is continuing to actively expand its footprint in new spaces and channels, both in the US and globally.

New business lines in craft and activity, bolstered by the recent acquisition of Ann Williams Group and the tremendous success of Koosh, have greatly expanded the company’s growth this year.

Additionally, a strengthened focus on licensing introduced by Kilpin has boosted business across core games and activities, including the hot introduction of The Magical World of Disney Trivia,

PlayMonster announced a significant capital injection from global private equity firms Adams Street Partners and H.I.G Capital earlier this year, along with a recent expansion to its sales team.

For more information, visit playmonster.com.

 

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives of all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as Koosh®, Playskool, Spirograph®, The Magical World of Disney Trivia, “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, THINGS…®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Colorforms, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships® and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

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Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Allison Yakeley
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
ayakeley@beaconmediagrp.com