Toys in the News: 11-30-11

By TDmonthly Staff
November 2011

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Toys in the News is updated Mon-Fri at 9:15 am PST}}McDonald's will charge for Happy Meal toys in SF. November 30, 2011 — San Francisco's law that bans toy giveaways in kids' meals high in fat, salt and sugar goes into effect Thursday...

MEG Toys Unveils US Broadcast Deal for Puppy In My Pocket. November 30, 2011 — In a deal with Cartoon Network, Inc., MEG Toys has announced the arrival of its animated television series Puppy In My Pocket Adventures in Pocketville for broadcast in the US on Boomerang.

NRF Says Online Sales Tax Advantage Is ‘Stifling’ Local Stores. November 30, 2011 — The National Retail Federation today urged the House Judiciary Committee to support legislation that would require Internet retailers to collect sales tax...

Senate Holds TSCA Reform Hearing on November 17th. November 30, 2011 — The Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee held a hearing on November 17th to discuss the Safe Chemicals Act of 2011...

TIA Presents Important Toy Safety Information to Chinese Manufacturers. November 30, 2011 — Representatives from the Toy Industry Association (TIA) presented a practical understanding of U.S. toy safety requirements for Chinese manufacturers...

European Commission Launches Toy Safety Campaign. November 30, 2011 — In an effort to help parents choose safe toys for their children and to encourage safe play, the European Commission (EC) announced the launch of a Toy Safety Campaign...

Consumer Confidence up in November as Holiday Shopping Gets in Full Swing. November 29, 2011 — Heading into December, consumers are feeling more confident about the economy...

Disney Expands Cars Property. November 29, 2011 — Disney has confirmed that Cars has become one of the company's top grossing franchises...

Mattel Expands Commitment to Play with National Playworks Partnership. November 29, 2011 — Mattel, Inc. today announces a national partnership with the leading organization leveraging the power of play, Playworks, to bring play to more children and communities across the nation.

Toy prices are Slashed as Stores go to War in Bid to Attract Christmas Shoppers (UK). November 29, 2011 — Toy wars have broken out in Britain's High Streets as the prices of children's...

Uncaged Toy Piano Festival starts Tuesday. November 29, 201 1 — Think the emphasis should be placed on the first word of toy piano? If so, you’re behind the times...

AP IMPACT: Fears of disease outbreak? Half of states see rise in kids skipping school shots. November 29, 2011 — More parents are opting out of school shots for their kids. In eight states now, more than 1 in 20 public school kindergartners...

Over 122 Million Americans To Shop On Cyber Monday, According To Shop.Org Survey. November 28, 2011 — Online shopping continues to win over millions of Americans this holiday season, with a record number planning...

Black Friday Isn't The Only Game in Town. November 28, 2011 — Cyber Monday. Green Tuesday. Black Friday. Magenta Saturday. Chances are you won't find any of these holidays...

Black Friday Weekend Shines As Shoppers Line Up For Deals, Spend Record $52 Billion. November 28, 2011 — For those keeping score, consumers’ voracious appetites for great deals on Thanksgiving and Black Friday...

Mattel Elects Dirk Van de Put to Its Board of Directors. November 28, 2011 — Mattel, Inc. [NASDAQ:MAT] today announced the election of Dirk Van de Put, president and chief executive officer of McCain Foods Limited, to the Mattel Board of Directors...

Ahead of the Bell: Toy makers. November 28, 2011 — A record number of shoppers hit malls and stores during the busy shopping weekend after Thanksgiving...

Townshend toy manufacturer to close store. November 28, 2011 — The landmark Mary Meyer Big Black Bear retail and gift shop, which opened about 30 years ago...

Shoppers Gave Thanks for Online Deals. November 28, 2011 — Retailers who promoted their online presence as a way to avoid the crowds this past weekend were rewarded...

Mattel Announces Robert A. Eckert to Retire as CEO. November 23, 2011 — Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT), the world's largest toy company, today announced that Robert A. Eckert, 57, has informed the Board of Directors of his decision to retire as chief executive officer, after 11 years with the Company, effective December 31, 2011. The Board has named Bryan G. Stockton, 58, who has held the position of chief operating officer for the last year, to succeed Mr. Eckert as CEO, effective January 1, 2012.

Choosing an Insurance Policy: Important Tips for Toy Companies. November 23, 2011 — When selecting an insurance policy, toy companies are advised to consider cost, examine coverage and seek counsel from a broker with industry-specific knowledge...

5 Most Profitable Toys Of Past Christmases. November 23, 2011 — Thousands of toys have come and gone over the years, some of them scoring amazing success in the marketplace...

Toy Industry Unveils Nominees for 2012 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards; Announces Inductees into Toy Industry Hall of Fame. November 23, 2011 — Giving families an exciting first-look at the most coveted toys and games of the year, 77 finalists for the 2012 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards were unveiled by the Toy Industry Association (TIA) today in New York City.

Children’s Holiday Wish Lists Include Dolls, LEGO’s, IPod’s And Even, IPad’s, According To NRF. November 23, 2011 — It won’t be sugar plums dancing in children’s dreams this holiday season - it’s more likely to be video games, iPods and even iPads.

NRF And Other Groups File Lawsuit Saying Fed Didn’t Follow Law In Setting Swipe Fee Regulations. November 23, 2011 — The National Retail Federation, the Food Marketing Institute, the National Association of Convenience Stores and two retailers filed a lawsuit in federal court today saying the Federal Reserve failed to follow key requirements of a 2010 law when it adopted a flawed cap on debit card swipe fees...

Online Spending to Increase 15%. November 23, 2011 — Heading into the holiday season it was widely expected that online sales would enjoy...

Serious Head Injuries to Infants Continue Due to Falls from Bumbo Baby Seats Used on Elevated Surfaces. November 23, 2011 — Due to the serious risk of injury to babies, CPSC and Bumbo International Trust of South Africa ("Bumbo International") are urging parents and caregivers to never place Bumbo Baby Seats on tables, countertops, chairs or other raised surfaces. Infants aged 3-10 months old have fallen out of the Bumbo seat and suffered skull fractures and other injuries.

The Blackest Friday Of All. November 23, 201 1 — The holiday season is about to get underway with what is expected to be the single greatest spending...

Toy safety report find some dangers. November 22, 2011 — Shoppers awaiting this week's traditional kick-off of the holiday shopping season should find plenty of safe toys for children, but consumer advocates say some dangers still lurk.

Disney Consumer Products Appoints Josh Silverman as Executive Vice President of Global Licensing. November 22, 2011 — Disney Consumer Products (DCP) President Bob Chapek today announced Josh Silverman as executive vice president of Global Licensing for Disney and Marvel.

Latest Toys Use Mobile Apps For Enhanced Fun. November 22, 2011 — Holiday shoppers looking for high-tech gifts may find an interesting trend developing this year, as new toys and gadgets are using technology to enhance everyday activities.

As Online Shopping Grows, Retailers Plan Extended Cyber Monday Promotions, According To Shop.Org. November 21, 2011 — As online shopping continues to reach unprecedented levels, retailers plan to emphasize value and savings...

Cursing Baby Doll Causes Uproar. November 21, 2011 — A talking baby doll being sold by Toy 'R' Us to holiday shoppers has parents...

Chicago Toy Fair Showcases Latest Holiday Products. November 21, 2011 — When Kathy O'Brien couldn't find the perfect dollhouse for her daughter...

Mobile Shopping Forces Retailers Like Lowe's, Best Buy And Toys R Us To Adapt. November 21, 2011 — When it comes to holiday shopping, more people are phoning it in...

Holiday Shopping Trend is to Not be so Trendy. November 21, 2011 — When it comes to holiday gifts, it turns out the "it" gift is not "it" at all.

Joester Loria Inks Discovery Deal. November 21, 2011 — Discovery Communications has expanded its Animal Planet publishing...

Wal-Mart Leading on Lower Toy Prices Ahead of Black Friday. November 18, 2011 — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. widened its pricing gap for toys over Target Corp. and Amazon.com Inc...

LIMA, BSR Release Practical Guide for Licensees on Social and Environmental Compliance. November 18, 2011 — BSR and the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) have newly released “Good Practices for Complying with Licensors’ Social and Environmental Requirements: A Practical Guide for Licensees”. The timely new guide is designed to help the licensing industry promote positive social and environmental practices among licensors, licensees, agents, suppliers, factories, and retailers.

Eight In Ten Holiday Shoppers Plan To Give Gift Cards This Holiday Season, According To NRF. November 18, 2011 — Thanks to e-gifting, instant delivery through Facebook, personalized video and even mobile options, gift cards have become...

Top Ten Retailers For Customer Service Released As Holiday Shopping Gets Underway. November 18, 2011 — Whether it’s an unbeatable return policy, a helpful sales associate or 24-hour shopping convenience, holiday shoppers define customer service in a variety of ways.

Makedo, Australia’s Multi-Award Winning Connector System, Announces Toysmith as U.S. Distributor. November 18, 2011 — Toysmith, a leading specialty toy and gift company, is pleased to announce it has finalized a distribution agreement with makedo™. It has been one of the most-awarded and talked-about new product launches of the past 12 months and now Australia’s makedo™ is available for sale in the U.S. through Toysmith.

Wisconsin Firm Launches Educational Games and New Product Division. November 18, 2011 — Practical Strategies, Inc. (PSI) has created a new products division that has developed and produced a series of fun, funny and educational games under a new name, Parli-Cards, according to a press release.

Good Housekeeping Names Top-20 Toys of 2011. November 18, 2011 — Good Housekeeping has released it's annual Best Toy awards list. Chosen by a panel of 115 children and the Good Housekeeping team, the full list of winners can be seen here.

Toys"R"Us® Introduces New and Expanded Mobile Offerings to Enhance Shopping Convenience. November 18, 2011 — Toys"R"Us® today announced that it has expanded its mobile offerings for the holiday season, providing an enhanced shopping experience for on-the-go shoppers.

The Kindle Fire As Educational Tablet? November 18, 2011 — The initial reviews for the new Kindle Fire have been fairly lukewarm...

Disney Issues Its First E-Book Original Novel. November 18, 2011 — “On November 18th, get sucked in,” urges the book trailer for Disney-Hyperion’s debut e-book original novel...

Report: 81M People Play Social Games Every Day. November 18, 2011 — A new 2011 market report has found that 118.5 million people now play social games...

Mattel Toys Made By Factories that Deceive and Abuse Their Workers. November 17, 2011 — An investigation by China Labor Watch (CLW) and Peuples Solidaires has discovered serious legal and ethical violations...

Mattel Says China Labor Watch Report of Violations ‘Unfounded’. November 17, 2011 — Mattel Inc. (MAT), the world’s biggest toymaker, is investigating China Labor Watch’s report of legal violations...

MGA Entertainment Scores Another Court Victory for Bratz. November 17, 2011 — MGA Entertainment, Inc. scored another court victory today when a federal district court granted its motion for summary judgment on photographer Bernard Belair's claims that the Bratz dolls infringed an advertisement he created for Steve Madden in Belair v. MGA Entertainment, Inc., Case No. 09-Civ-8870, in which he sought tens of millions of dollars from the Bratz sales.

Consumer Group Flags Most Dangerous Toys. November 15, 2011 — A Power Rangers "samurai mega blade" and a Godzilla figure with dagger-like attachments...

Up To 152 Million Shoppers Expected To Visit Stores, Websites Black Friday Weekend, According To NRF Survey. November 15, 2011 — Though there are already plenty of great deals on everything from e-readers and smartphones to apparel and toys...

Utah’s Skullcandy Sues Toy Line Over Logo Design. November 15, 2011 — Skullcandy, the Park City company that makes headphones and accessories for the extreme sports crowd...

Children's Animal Slippers Recalled Due to Choking Hazard; Sold Exclusively at Family Dollar Stores. November 15, 2011 — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product: About 160,000 Kidgets® Animal Sock Top Slippers by BCNY International Inc., sold exclusively at Family Dollar stores nationwide from September 2011 through October 2011 for about $5. The animal's eyes can detach from the slippers, posing a choking hazard to young children. Consumers should immediately take the slippers away from children and return them to any Family Dollar store for a full refund.

Collective Brands Recalls KEDS Girls' Shoes Due to Laceration Hazard. November 15, 2011 — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product: About 45,000 KEDS® "Know It All" Girls' Shoes from Collective Brands, Inc., sold at various department stores and online retailers from June through October 2011 for about $23. Ornamental stars on the heel of the shoe may loosen, posing a laceration hazard. Consumers should take these shoes away from children immediately and contact Collective Brands to receive a gift card for $30 redeemable at Stride Rite stores or striderite.com.

Target Blames Walmart Layaway for Toy Sales Slump. November 15, 2011 — Target Corp's toy business took a big hit from Wal-Mart Stores Inc early...

Vote Now for Worst Toy of the Year. November 15, 2011 — Back by popular demand: The Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood's 3rd annual TOADY Award...

One Step Ahead Partners With Manhattan Toy to Retail Parents(r) Speciality Line of Children's Developmental Toys. November 15, 2011 — Unique baby and children's retailer, One Step Ahead, is pleased to announce its retail partnership with renowned Manhattan Toy...

Children's Place raises outlook on strong earnings performance. November 17, 2011 — The economy may be keeping some families from purchasing new clothes for their children, but...

Toys Safer This Holiday Season Due to Stronger Safety Rules. November 16, 2011 — It's that time of year again, when parents, grandparents, and friends begin to prepare holiday toy shopping lists. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) wants consumers to know that while safety should be at the top of everyone's toy list, stronger federal rules are making a positive impact and restoring confidence in the safety of toys.

TRU Takes Pre-Orders for Simpson Doll. November 16, 2011 — Toys 'R' Us has begun taking pre-orders for Cody Simpson doll...

Marvel Signs Party City Deal. November 16, 2011 — Marvel Entertainment inked a deal with Amscan, parent company of Party City...

Build-A-Bear Recalls Teddy Bear Swimwear Set Due to Strangulation Hazard. November 16, 2011 — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product: About 19,720 units in the United States, and 1,100 units in Canada, Swimwear Set With Inflatable Inner Tube from Build-A-Bear Workshop, sold at Build-A-Bear Workshop® stores nationwide and online at www.buildabear.com from April 2011 to August 2011 for $12.50. The inner tube accessory can be pulled over a small child's head, posing a strangulation hazard. Consumers should immediately stop using the inner tube and return it to any Build-A-Bear Workshop® store to receive a $5 store coupon. If it is not possible to return the inner tube to a store, consumers may contact the company for information about how to receive a refund.

Consumers In For Nice Holiday Surprise With Discretionary Gifts On The Rise, According To NRF. November 16, 2011 — Looking to make the most out of their gift budgets this year, holiday shoppers are already out in full force...

Children's Books and Games for Video Consoles Are Tops in Toy Buying Intent This Holiday Season. November 16, 2011 — The stores' circulars are out and the commercials have definitely started...

Report: New York City World’s Most Expensive Retail Destination. November 16, 2011 — A report released Tuesday by CBRE Group said that New York City remains the world’s most expensive shopping destination...

Survey: Consumers Consider Expected Savings Before Shopping. November 16, 2011 — Shoppers today are more knowledgeable than ever when it comes to finding deals...

Teachers Caught on Tape Bullying Special-Needs Girl. November 16, 2011 — When a 14-year-old special needs student in Ohio told her father she was being bullied...

FAO Schwartz Adds Muppet Whatnots. November 16, 2011 — FAO Schwarz has unveiled its Muppet Whatnot puppets...

Barbie® & Stardoll® Unveil First of New Global Doll Line. November 15, 2011 — Barbie, the world's most popular fashion doll and Stardoll, the globally renowned online fashion and gaming community for girls, are bringing the world of virtual dress-up and online play to life with the new "Stardoll by Barbie" line of collectable fashion dolls.

Wal-Mart Beats Target, Amazon With Lower Online Toy Prices. November 15, 2011 — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT) has lower online prices on a selection of toys this month...

Barbie Beaming in Homevid Spotlight. November 15, 2011 — Barbie is going to spend a lot more time in the makeup chair...

After a Quarter Century, American Girl Dolls are Still Wildly Popular. November 15, 2011 — In 1986, three dolls — Kirsten, Samantha and Molly — took their first bows...

Consumer Spending On Discretionary Categories Boosts October Retail Sales, According To NRF. November 15, 2011 — Led by discretionary purchases, October retail sales saw impressive growth across the board...

ASTRA's Neighborhood Toy Store Day Generates Record Consumer Media Coverage. November 15, 2011 — The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) announced today that media coverage about the advantages of specialty toys reached a reading audience of over 300 million consumers in the ramp-up to Saturday’s Neighborhood Toy Store Day, according to a press release.

Member Alert on Media Inquiries Regarding Toy Safety and Related Issues. November 15, 2011 — Toys and toy safety often receive considerable attention from the news media and consumers at this time of the year.

Zeymore Ziv, Former Toys ‘R’ Us Executive VP and Toy Industry Hall of Fame Inductee, Dies at Age 86. November 15, 2011 — The Toy Industry Association (TIA) and its members join in mourning the passing of Seymore Ziv, a former Toys ‘R’ Us executive vice president, TIA Hall of Fame Inductee, veteran and philanthropist.

Children's Place Names Chief Marketer. November 15, 2011 — The Children's Place Retail Stores has announced the appointment of Lori Tauber Marcus as SVP chief marketing officer...

Toy Industry Faces Tough Christmas Season, Billionaire Maker Says. November 14, 2011 — There’s isn’t likely to be much joy for the toy industry this Christmas season...

Disney, Mattel open unique film exhibit. November 14, 2011 — Mattel and Disney are collaborating to bring a unique film prop exhibit to Los Angeles...

Chinese flock to buy London 2012 Olympics toys. November 14, 2011 — The Chinese have gone London 2012 bonkers, with Hornby reporting booming demand for Olympic-themed toys...

Amazon Toy Sellers Get Good News, Bad News on Holiday Sales. November 14, 2011 — Each year, toy sellers on Amazon are evaluated on whether they can sell in the Toys and Games...

Toys"R"Us gets "Happy Feet 2" exclusives. November 14, 2011 — Toys"R'Us will be the exclusive retailer...

ASTM International Approves Guidelines Regulating Cadmium in Children’s Jewelry. November 14, 2011 — ASTM International has approved a new standard regulating cadmium levels in children’s jewelry...

Toys"R"Us opens early Thanksgiving night to welcome Black Friday shoppers. November 14, 2011 — Toys"R"Us has become the latest retailer to join the trend of starting "Black Friday" on Thanksgiving...

Transformers Boosts Hasbro Revenue. November 11, 2011 — Hasbro reported a 69 percent year-over-year increase in its third quarter entertainment and licensing earnings...

PBS Kids Adds Mobile E-commerce Site. November 11, 2011 — PBS and CellPoint Mobile unveiled a fully integrated mobile shop...

Saks Fifth Avenue Signs Mogo. November 11, 2011 — Saks Fifth Avenue has signed a distribution deal with Mogo Design...

Mattel Elects Dirk Van de Put to Its Board of Directors. November 11, 2011 — Mattel, Inc. [NASDAQ:MAT] today announced the election of Dirk Van de Put, president and chief executive officer of McCain Foods Limited, to the Mattel Board of Directors, effective as of December 1, 2011.

Buzz Lightyear and 'Toy Story' gang return for 'Small Fry'. November 11, 2011 — Buzz Lightyear, get ready to get punk'd...

Neighborhood Toy Store Day to Encourage Local Shopping. November 11, 2011 — Tomorrow is "Neighborhood Toy Store Day," a day "designed to communicate with consumers about the advantages of shopping at locally owned toy stores," according to a press release from ASTRA.

Walmart gets a Thursday start on Black Friday. November 11, 2011 — Walmart announced that it is starting its Black Friday promotions at 10 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day ...

NRF Asks Senate To Approve Bill Shortening Visa Delays For U.S.-Bound Shoppers. November 11, 2011 — The National Retail Federation today urged the Senate to approve legislation that would help create jobs...

In Sweden, a Generation of Kids Who've Never Been Spanked. November 11, 2011 — Ian Swanson was 5 when his family moved from the United States to Umeå...

Return Fraud to Cost Retailers $3.5 Billion This Holiday Season, According to NRF Survey. November 10, 2011 — While still a tremendous problem, fewer retailers are expecting return fraud rates to grow this holiday season...

CPSC Warns High-Powered Magnets and Children Make a Deadly Mix. November 10, 2011 — An increasing number of incident reports to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) indicate that high-powered magnets continue to be a safety risk to children. From toddlers to teens, children are swallowing these magnets and the consequences are severe...

FremantleMedia Signs SEGA Europe. November 10, 2011 — FremantleMedia Enterprises inked a deal with SEGA Europe to represent the Sonic the Hedgehog...

NRF Says New Bill Shows Momentum On Sales Tax Fairness. November 10, 2011 — The National Retail Federation welcomed today’s introduction of the Marketplace Fairness Act...

Dollhouse, Hot Wheels, blanket inducted into National Toy Hall of Fame. November 10, 2011 — Linus would be pleased — the blanket is in...

comScore Reports $36.3 Billion in Q3 2011 U.S. Retail E-Commerce Spending. November 10, 2011 — comScore, Inc. today released its Q3 2011 U.S. retail e-commerce sales estimates, which showed that online retail spending reached $36.3 billion for the quarter, up 13 percent versus year ago, according to a press release.

Conference Board Survey Finds Holiday Shoppers in Frugal Mood. November 10, 2011 — U.S. households are expected to spend an average of $497 on gifts...

Cyber Monday the new Black Friday. November 10, 2011 — Retailers would be wise to focus more of their efforts on Cyber Monday...

Key Policymakers, Toy Industry Gather for Annual Washington, DC Fly-In. November 9, 2011 — More than 30 representatives of the toy industry converged on Capitol Hill last week to meet with federal lawmakers and regulators...

CPSC Launches Online Reporting Tool for Businesses. November 9, 2011 — The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has launched important new features to the SaferProducts.gov Business Portal that make it easier and more efficient for businesses to work with CPSC. These changes are a key part of the agency's overall information technology modernization effort.

37th Annual ICTI General Meeting Held in Hong Kong October 16-18. November 9, 2011 — The International Council of Toy Industries (ICTI) 37th Annual General Meeting (AGM) took place in Hong Kong October 16-18...

Marvel Signs Mega Brands. November 9, 2011 — Marvel Entertainment has signed Mega Brands to feature Spider-Man...

Toys ‘R’ Us names leadership team for Asian businesses. November 9, 2011 — Toys “R” Us has named the leadership team for its retail business operations in Southeast Asia and Greater China...

Mattel Reveals DC Universe All-Stars Action Figures For 2012. November 9, 2011 — Mattel's DC Universe Classics line will wrap with its 20th wave in a few months...

Dollface Cody Simpson hits Toys ‘R’ Us. November 9, 2011 — Atlantic Records has tapped consumer products company The Wish Factory to manufacture dolls...

This Year's Top Toys and Books Announced by the Canadian Toy Testing Council. November 9, 2011 — Just in time for the holiday shopping season, the children of the Canadian Toy Testing Council (CTTC) today presented awards for the top toys and books...

Celebrities Team Up with JAKKS Pacific and Cabbage Patch Kids to Raise Funds for Children's Action Network During National Adoption Month. November 9, 2011 — Celebrities including Steven Tyler, Al Roker, Katherine Heigl, Kristin Chenoweth and Raven-Symoné are recreated as unique, one-of-a kind Cabbage Patch Kids that will be auctioned on eBay starting today with proceeds benefiting Children's Action Network (CAN), a national adoption awareness organization dedicated to finding homes for children in the U.S. who are in foster care.

More Retailers Attack at 'Black Midnight.' November 8, 2011 — Holiday shoppers, say hello to Black Midnight. Best Buy Co. is joining the list of big store chains opening...

The Man Who Wants to Re-Invent Toys Before Video Games Destroy Them. November 8, 2011 — A few years ago, Paul Reiche and his team of game developers in Northern California...

WHERE’S WALDO? to Become Live-Action Feature Film. November 8, 2011 — MGM has picked up the feature film rights to bring the children’s book series...

Retail Container Traffic to Decline In November as Holiday Cargo Shipping Winds Down. November 8, 2011 — With most holiday season merchandise already on its way to store shelves, import cargo volume...

Dorel to Acquire Majority Interest in a South American Juvenile Products Business. November 8, 2011 — Dorel Industries Inc. today announced it has significantly increased the presence of its Juvenile segment in South America by signing a share purchase agreement to acquire a 70% interest in an existing group of companies, known principally as Silfa, who own and operate the popular Infanti brand in Chile, Bolivia, Peru and Argentina. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter, subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions.

New Book on Toy Store Financial Coming From ASTRA in Spring 2012. November 8, 2011 — The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) announced today that it has contracted with ASTRA retailer Philip Wrzesinski of Jackson, Michigan to write a book titled Financials for Toy Stores Made Easy. The publication is designed to be a companion to ASTRA’s previous book, Play for Profit: A Retail Business Plan for Toy Stores, according to a press release.

Nintendo Launches Toy-Integrated Game. November 8, 2011 — On the heels of Disney launching its line of iPad-compatible toys, gaming giant Nintendo...

Learning Resources Appoints Richard Woldenberg Chief Executive Officer. November 8, 2011 — Learning Resources, a leader in educational resources and toys, today announced a change in its leadership. Current chairman and former CEO, Richard Woldenberg, will reassume the CEO position, replacing Etienne Veber. Veber, who has been with Learning Resources for six years, first as President then as CEO for the past four years, is leaving to pursue other interests, according to a press release.

Mothers Spend Eight Hours Christmas Shopping for Each Child, Mattel Survey Finds. November 7, 2011 — A study, commissioned by toy company Mattel, has found that almost three-quarters of mothers...

Elf Heads to TV for the Holidays. November 7, 2011 — It may be increasingly common for first-time authors who can’t place their book with a trade house to publish themselves...

Toys"R"Us® and Pretty Ugly(TM), LLC Partner to Bring Uglydoll® Merchandise to Kids and Collectors Nationwide. November 7, 2011 — Toys"R"Us®, in partnership with Pretty Ugly(TM), LLC, the manufacturer and distributor of the Uglydoll® brand of plush characters, today announced that they will leverage the strength of their respective brands to introduce Uglydoll products in Toys"R"Us U.S. stores nationwide, as well as an Uglydoll shopping environment online at Toysrus.com.

Toys Change, But the Frenzy Stays the Same. November 7, 2011 — In North America, parents spend $14 billion on Christmas presents...

Anti-Bullying Legislation Attacked for Allowing Bullying. November 7, 2011 — Anti-bullying legislation just approved by the Michigan Senate has been denounced...

National Study Finds Widespread Sexual Harassment of Students in Grades 7 to 12. November 7, 2011 — Nearly half of 7th to 12th graders experienced sexual harassment in the last school year...

Sears and Kmart Make Toy Shopping Easier this Holiday Season by Offering New Mobile Shopping Walls. November 4, 2011 — This holiday shopping season, Sears and Kmart are reaching customers in a whole new way by introducing mobile shopping walls...

October Same-Store Sales Slow. November 4, 2011 — Retail same-store sales slowed to 3.9 percent growth in October...

APP lashes out at Greenpeace; Greenpeace hits back. November 4, 2011 — Earlier this year, Greenpeace hired US-based testing company Integrated Paper Services to conduct fibre tests on toy...

China Toy Sales Seen Surging to $9 Billion With Princess: Retail. November 4, 2011 — Wanted: BFF; pretty in pink; not too trashy; lower maintenance than Barbie...

Spin Master Conducts Layoffs Across Global Ops. November 4, 2011 — Toronto, Canada-based Spin Master Toys has made notable staff cuts across...

Toy Imports Drop 9 Percent in September. November 4, 2011 — Containerized imports of toys fell 9 percent in September, their eighth straight month of year-over-year decline...

See if the Recession is Over at 12:01 a.m., Dec.1. November 4, 2011 — Economists may be feeling good after a government report that showed third-quarter GDP grew...

Deloitte: Consumers in Good Spirits About Holiday Shopping. November 4, 2011 — While consumers remain concerned about the economy, it is not enough to damper their holiday shopping...

ASTRA Takes Fair Competition Message to Washington. November 3, 2011 — American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) president Kathleen McHugh and ASTRA retailers Steven Aarons, Barstons Child’s Play, Washington DC; Claudia and Tom Towles, aMuse Toys, Baltimore met today with the office of Senator Richard Durbin, sponsor of the Main Street Fairness Act, which would require that all businesses collect state sales tax on purchases whether or not the retailer has a physical presence in their state, according to a press release.

CE Space Gets a TRU Player. November 3, 2011 — Toys“R”Us is looking to become a bigger player in the consumer electronics space...

LeapFrog Q3 Beats Estimates; Ups Full Year Outlook. November 3, 2011 — Educational toymaker LeapFrog Enterprises Inc's third-quarter profit beat market expectations...

Survey: Parents Lie to Help Preteens Get on Facebook. November 3, 2011 — Millions of kids under the age of 13 have signed up for Facebook...

Toy Convention Brings Out Artists — and Your Inner Child. November 3, 2011 — The culture of vinyl toys thrives in Los Angeles, home of the makers and designers...

Boy Scouts of America Recalls Cub Scout Wind Tech Jackets Due to Strangulation Hazard. November 3, 2011 — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product: About 5,400 Cub Scout Wind Tech jackets from Boy Scouts of America, sold at Boy Scouts of America retail outlets nationwide and online at www.scoutstuff.org from November 2009 through July 2011 for approximately $32. he jackets have retractable cords with toggles at the hood/neck area and at the waist, which can pose a strangulation or entrapment hazard to children. Consumers should immediately remove the cords from these jackets to eliminate the hazard, or return the jacket to Boy Scouts of America for a full refund.

Dutailier Group Recalls Drop-Side Cribs Due to Entrapment and Fall Hazards. November 3, 2011 — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product: About 440 Drop-side cribs from Dutailier Group Inc., sold at children’s products stores and other baby specialty stores from January 2009 through February 2010 for between $425 and $775. The slats on the drop side can detach from the top and bottom rails creating a space between the slats. An infant or toddler’s body can become entrapped in the space, which can lead to strangulation and/or suffocation. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled cribs and contact Dutailier Group to receive a free repair kit which consists of a new fixed side to replace the drop-side of the crib.

Toys"R"Us, Inc. Acquires Majority Stake in Existing Retail Business Operations Throughout Southeast Asia and Greater China. November 2, 2011 — Toys"R"Us, Inc. and Li & Fung Retailing today announced they have entered into a joint venture agreement for the Toys"R"Us(R) business in Southeast Asia and Greater China.

Warner Bros. Consumer Products Extends Agreement with DC Comics Master Toy Licensee Mattel. November 2, 2011 — Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), with DC Entertainment, announced today that it has extended its successful relationship with leading worldwide toy manufacturer, Mattel, Inc.

Sea Change in Toy Land - Mattel Acquires HIT. November 2, 2011 — Industry expert Lutz Muller gives an in-depth analysis of Mattel's acquisition of HIT Entertainment, and what it means for the global toy industry.

Hasbro Targets Paper Packaging Sustainability with New Policy. November 2, 2011 — Greenpeace has chalked up another win in its campaign to get companies...

Mega Brands Sales Continue to Grow in Q3 Despite Pre-Christmas Retailer Caution. November 2, 2011 — Toy maker Mega Brands continued to improve its sales in the third quarter even though cautious retailers...

Amazon Reveals the 2011 Holiday Toy List. November 2, 2011 — Amazon.com, Inc. today announced its 2011 Holiday Toy List ( www.amazon.com/holidaytoylist ), where customers can find this season's most popular toys, video games, sporting goods, electronics, movies and more.

John Lasseter Receives Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. November 2, 2011 — It was 1964 when a young John Lasseter and his family made the 40-minute trek to Hollywood's Grauman's Chinese Theatre...

Minifigures and Moshlings are Big in the Toy World. November 2, 2011 — Price a toy at less than £2 and you might expect it to be popular at a time of squeezed household budgets...

Battat Recalls Magnetic Sketchboards; Magnetic Pen Tip Poses Choking Hazards. November 2, 2011 — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product: About 95,000 in the United States (4,300 in Canada) Toulouse-LapTrec magnetic sketchboards from Battat Inc, sold at Target and Barnes & Noble stores nationwide and by various online retailers from March 2010 to March 2011 for about $16. The magnetic tip of the drawing pen can dislodge from the pen, posing a choking hazard to children. Consumers should immediately take recalled sketchboards away from children and contact Battat to receive a free replacement sketchboard.

Kiddieland Recalls Disney-branded Fairies Plastic Trikes Due to Laceration Hazard. November 2, 2011 — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product: About 12,000 (9,000 Disney Princess Trikes were recalled in April 2011*) Disney Fairies Plastic Racing Trikes from Kiddieland Toys Limited, sold exclusively at Target stores nationwide from July 2009 through December 2009 for about $50. The plastic fairy figures protrude from the top of the handle bar posing a laceration hazard if a child falls on them. Consumers should immediately take the trikes away from children and contact Kiddieland for a free replacement handlebar with an enclosed rotating display. *New model Princess Trikes do not have figurines and are not included in the recall.

Debut of TIA’s Brand & Entertainment Showcase Will Bring Added “Sizzle” to Toy Fair 2012. November 2, 2011 — New York City is slated to become the next stop on the global licensing circuit as the Toy Industry Association (TIA) launches its new Brand & Entertainment Showcase in February 2012.

Target Future Uncertain Following CFO Retirement. November 2, 2011 — The unexpected announcement that Target EVP and CFO Doug Scovanner will retire...

ZOMBIEZOO® Plush Line Grows, Develops Licensing Program. November 2, 2011 — Following the successful launch of a line of collectible plush toys at the American International Toy Fair 2011, ZOMBIEZOO® and owner Boo2Yoo, Inc., announced today the expansion of the ZOMBIEZOO® line with a new multi-platform licensing and media program led by Beverly Hills, California-based brand marketing and licensing firm memBrain Licensing, LLC, according to a press release.

Disney Taps Target for Princess Week. November 2, 2011 — The Walt Disney Company has joined forces with Target and actress, singer and children's author Julie Andrews...

Penney Bets on Finer Offerings for Holiday Season. November 2, 2011 — J.C. Penney Co Inc is adding more expensive items to its holiday selection this year...

IKEA Donates Thousands of Soft Toys on November 1st to Toys for Tots. November 1, 2011 — Thousands of plush, cuddly and adorable soft toys will soon be in the welcoming arms of less fortunate children across America thanks to IKEA and Marine Toys for Tots.

Second National "Neighborhood Toy Store Day" Supports Shopping Local and Community Fun on November 12. November 1, 2011 — "This event is such a special opportunity for families to enjoy their local toy stores," said Kathleen McHugh, ASTRA's President. "Neighborhood Toy Store Day highlights the importance of independent toy stores not only to children and their families -- but to their local areas as well. It's a wonderful way to launch the holiday shopping season with some community-minded fun."

Rokenbok Releases Children's Construction Toy TV Show: "Go Team Adventure Series". November 1, 2011 — Rokenbok Toy Company, a pioneer in engaging construction toys for children, announces its debut of a children's TV adventure series in what has become an official move to becoming a children's media company.

How Much Candy Do Americans Eat on Halloween? October 31, 2011 — Candy is everywhere during Halloween season...

Report: Consumer confidence unexpectedly up in October. October 31, 2011 — A report released Friday by Thomson Reuters and the University of Michigan found that consumer confidence in the United States rose unexpectedly...

Toys"R"Us Introduces 2011 Holiday Broadcast Campaign. October 31, 2011 — Toys"R"Us today unveiled its 2011 holiday advertising campaign...the company will air two beloved ads from its archives, which celebrate the heritage of the Toys"R"Us brand...

Don't Expect Merrier Discounts. October 31, 2011 — Retailers already are getting into the holiday spirit in anticipation that shoppers will spend....

Police Warn of Toy Gun Dangers Ahead of Halloween. October 31, 2011 — Florida's Collier County Sheriff's Office is cautioning the public about the seriousness and potential consequences of airsoft guns...

WIGGITY BANG GAMES SELLS QUELF & QUELF JR. TO SPIN MASTER LTD. October 31, 2011 — Wiggity Bang Games, LLC, creators of award-winning family board and card games, announced today that Spin Master Ltd. has exercised a licensing agreement purchase option to acquire the popular party games, Quelf and Quelf Jr., according to a press release.

ASTRA AND CANADIAN RETAILERS SET TO PROMOTE ADVANTAGES OF SPECIALTY TOYS ON NEIGHBORHOOD TOY STORE DAY. October 31, 2011 — Hundreds of independent toy retailers in the United States and Canada will celebrate Neighborhood Toy Store Day on Saturday, November 12, 2011, the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) announced today.

Small Toy Companies Leverage TSCP for Certification to CPSC Interim Enforcement Policies. October 31, 2011 — On December 28, 2009, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued an interim Enforcement Policy regarding component testing and certification of children's products...

Mattel Inc. (MAT) COO Bryan Stockton Sells 25,000 Shares. October 31, 2011 — COO of Mattel Inc. (MAT) Bryan Stockton sells 25,000 shares of MAT...

IKEA to Launch 'Soft Toy' Campaign. October 31, 2011 — Global home products company IKEA said its Kuwait unit is set to re-launch its yearly ‘Soft Toy Campaign’...