2014 American International Toy Fair
RTM is not attending the 2014 Toy Fair in person, but you can check out various press materials and information at the links below. To see galleries of the showrooms from this year, please check out AwesomeToyBlog.com and MillionairePB.com, as Matt and Andy will be attending the show and adding pictures and details as fast as they can.
Most Outstanding Toys and Games of the Year Recognized at "OSCARS®" of the Toy Industry
Rainbow Loom from Choon's Design LLC Grabs Coveted "Toy of the Year" Title and Three Category Awards; GoldieBlox™ and the Spinning Machine from GoldieBlox™, Inc. Bestowed "People's Choice" Honor
New York, NY | February 15, 2014 – Hundreds of toy executives and industry guests from around the world gathered in New York City tonight to honor the year's finest toys and industry luminaries at the 14th Annual Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards and Toy Industry Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
A TIA-administered event in support of the philanthropic work of the Toy Industry Foundation (TIF), the "Oscars" of the toy industry took place at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, kicking off the 111th American International Toy Fair.
Rainbow Loom – the hot-selling arts & crafts toy from Choon's Design LLC – was the runaway success of the evening, taking home the overall "Toy of the Year" award and prizes in three additional categories. Social media and Super Bowl ad sensation GoldieBlox™ and the Spinning Machine (GoldieBlox™, Inc.) snagged the admirable "People's Choice" award for pulling in the most online votes from consumers and was also awarded a prize in one additional category.
"This year's top TOTY winners are outstanding examples of the magical and creative playthings that originate from innovative toy companies of all sizes," said Carter Keithley, TIA President. "We congratulate Choon's Design, Goldieblox, and the winners across all 12 categories – from e-Connected to Outdoor – for their wonderful achievements!"
Interspersed with the awards presentation was a special tribute to the Toy Industry Foundation, which gifted more than three million toys and games to children in need worldwide in 2013 alone. The event also welcomed the induction of five individuals into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame: Jill Barad, Former Chairman and CEO, Mattel; Horst Brandstätter, President and Sole Owner, PLAYMOBIL/geobra Brandstätter GmbH & Co. KG; Jack Friedman, Former Chairman, CEO and Co-founder, JAKKS Pacific; and Arthur "Spud" Melin & Richard Knerr, Co-Founders of Wham-O Toy. These new inductees join a distinguished roster of dozens of luminaries who have been inducted into the Hall since its establishment in 1985.
TOTY Award winners were selected with the input of consumers (on ToyAwards.org), retailers (mass and specialty), media and members of the toy industry. The five ballots were weighted and used to determine the category winners, with the exception of the "People's Choice" award, which was selected exclusively by consumers.
And the winners are...
Recognizing an outstanding toy that inspires creative play through various forms of activity, the Activity Toy of the Year was presented to Rainbow Loom (Choon's Design LLC)
Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for boys of any age, the Boy Toy of the Year was presented to Despicable Me 2™ Special Feature Minion Dave Talking Action Figure (Thinkway Toys©)
Recognizing an app-cessory or other physical toy that interacts with a smartphone, tablet or gaming device, the e-Connected Toy of the Year was presented to LeapPad Ultra™ (LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.)
Recognizing an outstanding toy that helps children develop special skills and knowledge through play, the Educational Toy of the Year was presented to GoldieBlox™ and the Spinning Machine (GoldieBlox™, Inc.)
Recognizing an outstanding children's board, card, CD-ROM or electronic game, the Game of the Year was presented to Boom Boom Balloon™ (Spin Master Ltd.)
Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for girls of any age, the Girl Toy of the Year was presented to Rainbow Loom (Choon's Design LLC)
Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for infants and toddlers up to 36 months, the Infant/Toddler Toy of the Year was presented to Big Hugs Elmo (Playskool)
Recognizing an outstanding toy that combines innovation and play value, the Innovative Toy of the Year was presented Zoomer (Spin Master Ltd.)
Recognizing an outstanding toy that is designed for outdoor play, the Outdoor Toy of the Year was presented to Razor® Crazy Cart™ (Razor USA LLC)
Recognizing an outstanding toy developed for preschool-aged children (ages 3-5), the Preschool Toy of the Year was presented to Doc McStuffins Get Better Check-Up Center (Just Play)
Recognizing a property that has had the greatest success spreading its brand throughout the industry, Property of the Year was presented to Minecraft™ (Mojang AB)
Recognizing an outstanding toy that is distributed primarily through specialty toy retailers, the Specialty Toy of the Year was presented to Rainbow Loom (Choon's Design LLC)
Descriptions of all TOTY finalists can be found online at ToyAwards.org. The nominees were carefully selected by committees of academics, journalists, retailers, and more who considered 520 submitted products and properties.
Event sponsors for the evening were Spin Master Ltd., VTech, WELLS FARGO ADVISORS Fuchs Schulman Wealth Management Group (gold level); Dallas Market Center, Coyne PR (silver level); Educational Insights, Keller & Heckman LLP, LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc., TekConn, Gourvitz Communications (bronze level); and Women in Toys and Locker, Greenberg & Brainin (friends).
About the Toy Industry Association (TIA) (www.toyassociation.org)
TIA is the not-for-profit trade association representing all businesses involved in creating and bringing toys and youth entertainment products to kids of all ages, representing more than 700 companies who account for approximately 85% of domestic toy sales. Toy safety is the number one priority for the toy industry. TIA has a long history of leadership in toy safety and works with government, consumers and industry on ongoing programs to ensure safe and fun play.
About the Toy Industry Foundation (TIF) (www.toyindustryfoundation.org)
The Toy Industry Foundation brings the joy of play to children in need through core programs including The Toy Bank™ and grants to organizations with like-minded missions. The Toy Bank receives donations of newly manufactured toys from members of the toy industry and distributes them through local charities to underserved, at-risk and homeless children throughout the United States and around the world.
Top Toy Trends of 2014 Announced by Toy Industry Association (TIA), the Official Voice of Toy Fair
"Larger than Life" ... "RC Rampage" ... "Full STEAM Ahead!" ... and "Frightfully Fun" Among Top Trends
NEW YORK, Feb. 17, 2014 -- Supersized and classic toys, innovative RC vehicles, custom-built creations and zombie-inspired playthings are among the top industry trends of 2014, according to experts at the Toy Industry Association (TIA). The trade group unveiled this year's hottest playthings during a packed seminar for media and buyers at TIA's 111th American International Toy Fair.
"Personalization and open-ended play are definitely the buzz words of 2014," said Adrienne Appell, TIA trend expert. "Whether kids are building with classic blocks, designing their own dolls, playing in virtual worlds, or 'mashing up' play patterns, toymakers are giving them more freedom than ever to play exactly how they want. Best of all, these value-packed playthings come at a variety of price points – we are seeing a great selection of both splurge-worthy items and very affordable toys to fit any budget."
The toys, games and youth entertainment products revealed at today's "Toy Trends Tea" seminar will be appearing in stores now through the Holiday 2014 shopping season.
A summary of the six top trends follows:
Includes: dollhouses; inflatable toys; cars, trucks and trains; plush; and baby doll carriages, cribs and other role-play accessories.
Includes: traditional RCs with added features, such as the ability to fly higher, drive faster or launch projectiles.
Includes: hands-on science kits and innovative tech toys that inspire kids to think outside the box; and arts and crafts that introduce kids to STEAM concepts and skills at an early age.
Includes: classic toys with a zombie twist; gothic-style fashion dolls and accessories; detailed figures for older collectors; and trivia games for fans of popular movies and TV shows, like The Walking Dead.
Includes: re-releases and refreshed retro toys; low-tech / back-to-basics toys that reflect the enduring popularity of classic play patterns over time; and old-school family games that foster intergenerational play.
Includes two sub-trends: "Mash-up" toys, which incorporate many uses or ways to play in a single toy or game, giving kids the freedom to choose how they'd like to play; and "Fashion Forward" toys, which include DIY sets that allow kids to create their own accessories, fashion dolls that can be styled in a personalized way and realistically-designed dollhouses and building / play sets.
About the American International Toy Fair (www.ToyFairNY.com)
Toy Fair is an annual event that is owned and operated by the Toy Industry Association (TIA). The show brings together more than 1,150 exhibiting manufacturers, distributors, importers and sales agents to showcase 150,000+ toy and youth entertainment products to 7,000+ unique retail outlets from 100 countries.
About the Toy Industry Association (TIA) (www.ToyAssociation.org and www.ToyInfo.org)
TIA is the not-for-profit trade association representing all businesses involved in creating and delivering toys and youth entertainment products for kids of all ages, representing more than 700 companies who account for approximately 85% of domestic toy sales. TIA is the owner and operator of the American International Toy Fair and Fall Toy Preview. Toy safety is the number one priority for the toy industry; TIA has a long history of leadership in toy safety and works with government, consumers and industry on ongoing programs to ensure safe and fun play.
Brand New Goods from Star Trek, Halo, Valve Software's Team Fortress 2 and Portal 2 at Toy Fair: A Crowded Coop Debuts Pop Culture and Pet Toys with These Licensees and More
SEATTLE, Feb. 10, 2014 -- With an eye on what's new and trending in the categories of Pop Culture and Pet, Brandy Tanner and Mary Olson are the founders of A Crowded Coop (www.crowdedcoop.com) whose products have caught the attention of everyone from Parade Magazine, USA Today and VH1's Buzz of late. At Toy Fair 2014 A Crowded Coop (Booth 4855) will preview items that will leave the cartoon-lover, Trekkie, Halo collector and gamer all thrilled. At the Show 'The Coop' will also unveil all new product lines for Cartoon Hangover's Bravest Warriors, Dota 2 and Portal 2 from Valve Software and pet product collections for Elvis Presley, Star Trek: The Original Series and Adventure Time.
Toy Fair press and buyers will get the first look at the inaugural vinyl collectible collection for video game company Valve Software's Team Fortress 2 (TF2) title. All characters from the iconic RED and BLU teams have been shrunk down into 3-inch vinyl collectibles (MSRP $9.99 each), meticulously designed and detailed side-by-side with Valve's artists / designers responsible for creating the Team Fortress 2 game. The series marks the first time TF2 game characters have been anthropomorphized in stylized form.
A Crowded Coop's Star Trek: The Original Series pet product collection, under a license from CBS Consumer Products, will also be shown at Toy Fair. This addition to the extensive portfolio of Star Trek licensees expands the iconic brand to pop-culture savvy pets and their owners in the United States. Dressing a dog like Spock and letting him sleep in the Captain's Chair Dog Bed (MSRP $79.99) is now a reality.
Halo gamers will be introduced to the Halo Ammo Crate Tin Lunch Box from 'The Coop' (MSRP $29.99). The lunch box, with Reusable MRE (Meals Ready to Eat) sandwich bag, is designed to replicate the video game's UNSC ammo crate in Halo 4. This is one of many unique items that will be launched at the show.
Fans of the Bravest Warriors cartoon will see an all new product line from A Crowded Coop including the Catbug Hooded Backpack. Dress-up like Catbug with a soft sided shell shaped backpack with storable plush Catbug hood with ears and contrast 'Sugar Peas!' lining (MSRP $59.95).
In addition to the products and lines mentioned, A Crowded Coop will be showing a catalog of new items for their other licenses including the Star Trek: The Original Series bag collection, Valve Software's Dota 2, Portal 2 and Team Fortress 2 lifestyle items, and pet collections for Star Trek: The Original Series, Elvis Presley and Cartoon Network's Adventure Time at Booth 4855.
A Crowded Coop, formed by Mary Olson and Brandy Tanner in 2010, is a Pacific Northwest-based marketer and creator of consumer products released globally. Their product design satisfies consumers in the categories of pop culture and pet products. In recent weeks VH1, USA Today and Parade magazine have covered their new Star Trek Pet collection.
Disney Consumer Products Ready to Capture Boys' Imaginations and Dominate Toy Aisles in 2014
The action-packed event at American International Toy Fair featured special appearances by Dane Cook, Freddie Prinze, Jr. and Andrew Garfield showcasing an impressive line of toys from Disney's Planes: Fire & Rescue, Star Wars Rebels™, Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy and The Amazing Spider-Man 2
TOY FAIR 2014 -- NEW YORK -- February 17, 2014 -- During an action-packed event at the 2014 American International Toy Fair, Disney Consumer Products unveiled its dynamic product lines that will dominate boys toy aisles this year with offerings inspired by highly anticipated content: Disney's Planes: Fire & Rescue, Star Wars Rebels, Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 from Sony Pictures Entertainment and inspired by Marvel's iconic web-slinger. Special guests Dane Cook, voice of "Dusty Crophopper" in Planes: Fire & Rescue, Freddie Prinze, Jr., voice of "Kanan" in Star Wars Rebels, and Andrew Garfield and Jorge Vega of Amazing Spider-Man 2 introduced content that debuted exclusively at the event and revealed never-before-seen toys to retailers, toy and industry influencers. Chris Pratt of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy made a special appearance via video to share his excitement about how his character's stories are being brought to life through the action-packed Guardians toy line.
"Disney Consumer Products is firing on all cylinders across our diverse franchise portfolio, and at this year's Toy Fair we're building off a successful 2013 to showcase the best of our new and storied properties that will heat up toy aisles in 2014," said Josh Silverman, executive vice president, global licensing at Disney Consumer Products. "We're excited to see these four properties take off at retail as we know these innovative products will resonate with kids and fans who want to create their own heroic stories."
Disney Consumer Products, the world's leading licensor of entertainment properties, understands how kids today play, and is working with best-in-class licensees such as Hasbro, Huffy, JAKKS Pacific, Just Play, LEGO, Mattel, Thinkway and more to deliver character-driven, storytelling-infused toys across play patterns. From classic action figures and vehicles, to expertly crafted playsets and creative technology-infused products, this epic lineup encourages kids of all ages to recreate key moments from these properties and imagine new ones.
Product highlights from these exciting toy lines include:
(For an extended toy list, please visit: http://bit.ly/DCPToyFairFactSheet)
Planes: Fire & Rescue
Planes: Fire & Rescue is a new high flying comedy-adventure that debuts a dynamic new crew of elite firefighting aircraft that will fly into theatres in 3D on July 18, 2014. Products take flight at mass retail starting in June.
Star Wars Rebels
The animated television series Star Wars Rebels introduces a new audience to the epic generational franchise with all-new exciting, action-packed adventures that will release in the fall of 2014 on Disney XD. Beginning in February, fans will be able to find exclusive and licensed Star Wars products in Disney Store locations and on disneystore.com, with Star Wars Rebels items arriving this fall; all other Star Wars Rebels inspired products will be at mass retailers in September.
Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy
The action-packed space adventure Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy unveils a ragtag group of heroes on a quest to save the cosmos on August 1, 2014. Fans can find products inspired by the film in mass retailers starting in July.
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 by Sony Pictures Entertainment
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 follows Marvel's iconic Super Hero Spider-Man as his greatest battle begins as the new film hits theaters in the U.S. on May 2, 2014. Products for web-slinging kids and fans of all ages will be available at mass retailers in April.
For more information on Disney, Lucasfilm and Marvel products, visit www.disneyconsumerproducts.com.
ABOUT DISNEY'S PLANES: FIRE & RESCUE
"Planes: Fire & Rescue" is a new comedy-adventure about second chances, featuring a dynamic crew of elite firefighting aircraft devoted to protecting historic Piston Peak National Park from a raging wildfire. When world famous air racer Dusty (voice of Dane Cook) learns that his engine is damaged and he may never race again, he must shift gears and is launched into the world of aerial firefighting. Dusty joins forces with veteran fire and rescue helicopter Blade Ranger and his courageous team, including spirited super scooper Dipper (voice of Julie Bowen), heavy-lift helicopter Windlifter, ex-military transport Cabbie and a lively bunch of brave all-terrain vehicles known as The Smokejumpers. Together, the fearless team battles a massive wildfire and Dusty learns what it takes to become a true hero. Directed by Bobs Gannaway ("Secret of the Wings"), "Planes: Fire & Rescue" hits theaters in 3D on July 18, 2014.
ABOUT STAR WARS REBELS
Star Wars Rebels continues the epic tradition of the legendary Star Wars saga with all-new exciting, action-packed adventures. It is a dark time in the galaxy, as the evil Galactic Empire tightens its grip of power from world to world. As the series begins, Imperial forces have occupied a remote planet, ruling with an iron fist and ruining the lives of its people. But there are a select few who are brave enough to stand up against the endless Stormtroopers and TIE fighters of the Empire: the clever and motley crew of the starship "Ghost." Together, this ragtag group will face threatening new villains, have thrilling adventures, and become heroes.
ABOUT MARVEL'S GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY
From Marvel, the studio that brought you the global blockbuster franchises of Iron Man, Thor, Captain America and The Avengers, comes a new team—the Guardians of the Galaxy. An action-packed, epic space adventure, Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy" expands the Marvel Cinematic Universe into the cosmos, where brash adventurer Peter Quill finds himself the object of an unrelenting bounty hunt after stealing a mysterious orb coveted by Ronan, a powerful villain with ambitions that threaten the entire universe. To evade the ever-persistent Ronan, Quill is forced into an uneasy truce with a quartet of disparate misfits—Rocket, a gun-toting raccoon, Groot, a tree-like humanoid, the deadly and enigmatic Gamora and the revenge-driven Drax the Destroyer. But when Quill discovers the true power of the orb and the menace it poses to the cosmos, he must do his best to rally his ragtag rivals for a last, desperate stand—with the galaxy's fate in the balance.
Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy," which first appeared in comic books in Marvel Super-Heroes, Issue #18 (Jan. 1969), stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, featuring Vin Diesel as the voice of Groot, Bradley Cooper as the voice of Rocket, Lee Pace, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, with John C. Reilly, Glenn Close as Nova Prime Rael and Benicio del Toro as The Collector.
James Gunn is the director of the film with Kevin Feige producing, and Louis D'Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Jeremy Latcham, Alan Fine and Stan Lee serve as executive producers. The story is by Nicole Perlman and James Gunn, with screenplay by James Gunn. Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy" releases in U.S. theaters on August 1, 2014.
ABOUT THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2
We've always known that Spider-Man's most important battle has been within himself: the struggle between the ordinary obligations of Peter Parker and the extraordinary responsibilities of Spider-Man. But in The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Peter Parker finds that a greater conflict lies ahead. It's great to be Spider-Man (Andrew Garfield). For Peter Parker, there's no feeling quite like swinging between skyscrapers, embracing being the hero, and spending time with Gwen (Emma Stone). But being Spider-Man comes at a price: only Spider-Man can protect his fellow New Yorkers from the formidable villains that threaten the city. With the emergence of Electro (Jamie Foxx), Peter must confront a foe far more powerful than he. And as his old friend, Harry Osborn (Dane DeHaan), returns, Peter comes to realize that all of his enemies have one thing in common: Oscorp. Directed by Marc Webb. Produced by Avi Arad and Matt Tolmach. Screen Story and Screenplay by Alex Kurtzman & Roberto Orci & Jeff Pinkner. Based on the Marvel Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. The film will be released in theaters internationally beginning April 16, 2014, and in the U.S. on May 2, 2014.
ABOUT DISNEY CONSUMER PRODUCTS
Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) that delivers innovative and engaging product experiences across thousands of categories from toys and apparel to books and fine art. As the world's largest licensor, DCP inspires the imaginations of people around the world by bringing the magic of Disney into consumers' homes with products they can enjoy year-round. DCP is comprised of three business units: Licensing, Publishing and Disney Store. The Licensing business is aligned around five strategic brand priorities: Disney Media, Classics & Entertainment, Disney & Pixar Animation Studios, Disney Princess & Disney Fairies, Lucasfilm and Marvel. Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) is the world's largest publisher of children's books, magazines, and digital products and also includes an English language learning business, consisting of more than 40 Disney English learning centers across China and a supplemental learning book program. DPW's growing library of digital products includes best-selling eBook titles and original apps that leverage Disney content in innovative ways. The Disney Store retail chain operates across North America, Europe, and Japan with more than 350 stores worldwide and is known for providing consumers with high-quality, unique products. Disney's official shopping portals online are www.DisneyStore.com and www.DisneyStore.co.uk. For more information, please visit Disney Consumer Products www.DisneyConsumerProducts.com or follow us at www.YouTube.com/DisneyLiving, www.Facebook.com/DisneyLiving, www.Twitter.com/DisneyLiving, http://www.pinterest.com/DisneyLiving and www.Instagram.com/DisneyLiving.
Hasbro Unveils Its Portfolio of Entertainment Brands and Innovative Must-Have Play Experiences at the 2014 American International Toy Fair
NEW YORK -- February 15, 2014 -- Hasbro, Inc., a premier global branded play company, will debut new introductions from many of the world's favorite entertainment and playtime brands at the 111th American International Toy Fair in New York.
"Hasbro continues to deliver meaningful and lasting connections between our unparalleled portfolio of multi-platform brands and our consumers around the world," said John Frascotti, chief marketing officer, Hasbro. "In 2014 Hasbro will offer a wide variety of new ways for families to experience our brands and make them their own, offering innovation and customization across a number of properties, including MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, LITTLEST PET SHOP, PLAY-DOH and MONOPOLY."
For fans of the MY LITTLE PONY brand, the power of the rainbow will be brought to life with an array of colorful ponies and playsets. Children and fans of all ages will enjoy discovering the whimsical world of six pony friends, watching their adventures unfold in the "My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic" animated series created by Hasbro Studios and seen in 180 countries around the world. Fans can immerse themselves in imaginative stories of their own with toys inspired by the series, including new "rainbowfied" ponies and a playset based on the introduction of TWILIGHT SPARKLE'S royal kingdom. This fall, the beloved brand will 'pop' into a new category of play that, for the first time ever, lets fans create and customize their own ponies with MY LITTLE PONY POP, a new line of easy-to-assemble figures and a playset for children to build and personalize every aspect of their pony friends - from funky hairstyles and colorful outfits to customized cutie marks and patterned wings. With over 200 top-tiered licensees for the brand globally, fans can also experience the MY LITTLE PONY fun across a wide variety of platforms ranging from publishing, digital gaming and apparel, to plush, housewares and fashion & beauty.
This fall, LITTLEST PET SHOP empowers fans to "Be who they wanna be!" with a new way to play that offers the freedom to design their own PET SHOP world. Fans can create their own Downtown City, with customizable style sets and pets inspired by the Littlest Pet Shop animated series created by Hasbro Studios. Fans can collect and stack the style sets vertically or horizontally to create a unique 'city skyline,' then customize and style with Deco Bits, unique accessories that plug into the environments for a little added glamour, as well as stickers and other decorative pieces. Fans can also collect more than 100 new pets, straight from the entertainment!
This year the MONOPOLY brand will continue to provide fans of all ages unique ways to play the iconic game, including the fully customizable MY MONOPOLY game. Players can personalize their own MONOPOLY game in minutes using the MY MONOPOLY app or website and printable stickers to customize property spaces, game tokens and Chance and Community Chest cards with pictures of their favorite people, places and things. The brand will also introduce a redesigned MONOPOLY JUNIOR game to a younger generation with fast-paced game play and kid-friendly property spaces, as well as "junior" versions of their favorite classic tokens.
It's "More Than Meets The Eye" for the TRANSFORMERS franchise, as OPTIMUS PRIME and the AUTOBOTS return to theaters in the new movie TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION this June from Paramount Pictures and director Michael Bay. Inspired by the new film, Hasbro is revolutionizing its TRANSFORMERS action figures in the new TRANSFORMERS ROBOTS IN DISGUISE line, allowing kids to convert robots to vehicles — or, in the case of the eagerly awaited new DINOBOT characters, robots to dinos — in as little as one step. Hasbro will also celebrate the iconic brand's 30th Anniversary with a variety of new brand experiences including digital gaming, KRE-O construction sets and more.
The fun doesn't stop with MY LITTLE PONY, LITTLEST PET SHOP, MONOPOLY and TRANSFORMERS as Hasbro introduces DOHVINCI, an extension of the PLAY-DOH brand, that brings kids of all ages an entirely new art experience featuring an all new design compound and an innovative Styler tool. Creativity will pop off the page as children create their own 3D art designs with this highly intuitive and unique creative experience.
Highlights from Hasbro's innovative 2014 product showcase at the American International Toy Fair include:
ANGRY BIRDS STELLA: Treehouse Playset Game featuring Stella
Based on the exciting new App from Rovio, Stella and her fierce flock of friends are the stars of the show. Now kids can collect, launch, and dress up Stella and her friends AND teleport them into the app for even more adventures using the TELEPODS base. Help Stella win back her tree house by launching the birds at those pesky piggies. When all the piggies are knocked away, the tree house pops open for the birds move in and play! The set features Stella, 3 birds, 1 Treehouse, 1 Bubble Bed, 1 Soda Counter, 2 piggies, 2 accessory bases, 1 launcher, and 1 TELEPODS base. (Ages: 5+/Players: 1+/Approx. Retail Price: $34.99/Available: Fall 14)
BABY ALIVE MY BABY ALL GONE BABY Doll
The BABY ALIVE MY BABY ALL GONE BABY doll is ready to feed, play and talk with mommy, offering the full feeding and caregiving experience. Saying over 30 sounds and phrases, MY BABY ALL GONE BABY doll will be able to recognize when she is being fed and react accordingly with cute phrases like "I'm hungry mommy" or "Yummy in my tummy". After she's being fed, kids will be able to change her diaper as this baby doll really wets and soils! The MY BABY ALL GONE BABY doll features rooted hair and comes with a bowl, spoon, bottle, two diapers, and two food packets. MY BABY ALL GONE BABY is bilingual in both English and Spanish and is available in three ethnicities. Each sold separately. Requires two AA batteries, demo batteries included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com. (Ages 3 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 14)
Disney Princess Castle: POP-UP MAGIC Game
Immerse yourself in the worlds of your favorite Disney Princess characters with the all-new Disney Princess Castle: POP-UP MAGIC game. Kids can play as Ariel, Belle, Rapunzel or Snow White as they travel along the 3D game board through twists and turns to the magical pop-up castle to win. Expand the fun by connecting the Disney Tangled, Princess Cinderella's Coach and Frozen POP-UP MAGIC games (each game sold separately). Set includes 4 princess figurines and friend tokens. (Ages: 3 & up/Players: 2—4/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Spring 14)
DOHVINCI STYLE & STORE VANITY Kit
Keep your room just a little more organized with a customizable place to store your favorite things! Use the Styler tool to make this mirror and drawer set uniquely yours with colorful designs that pop. Once your DOHVINCI design is complete, assemble your vanity and voila! - a perfect place to store your jewelry, notes, and other favorites. Includes five-piece vanity with mirror, add-on flourishes, Styler tool, wavy shaped design tip, two-sided edging tool, four DECO POP colors, and inspiration guide. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com. (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 14)
FURREAL FRIENDS POM POM, MY BABY PANDA Pet
What's black and white and cute all over? The FURREAL FRIENDS family welcomes an adorable new arrival, POM POM, MY BABY PANDA pet! The POM POM, MY BABY PANDA pet has so much to learn and she needs your help. Shake her rattle in front of her and she'll walk to you, making sweet panda noises as she goes. Children can even talk to her, and POM POM, MY BABY PANDA pet will really respond to their voices with happy sounds to show her love. This panda's poseable legs make her easy to cuddle and give a big "bear hug." After a day of playtime, children can feed POM POM, MY BABY PANDA pet with her bottle, she'll kick her legs and make sweet feeding sounds. Includes 4 "AA" Duracell batteries. 4 "AA" replacement batteries required. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com. (Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $49.99/Available: Fall 14)
LET'S IMAGINE ELMO
Bring the learning adventures from the Elmo the Musical segment on Sesame Street off the screen and into the family room with the interactive LET'S IMAGINE ELMO plush! This cute 13-inch Elmo pal comes with three different hats that unlock different imaginary themes and play modes. Place the crown on Elmo's head to play a game of "Prince Elmo Says," pop on the cowboy hat to learn about numbers in the "Countin' Cowboy" game, or put on the sea captain hat for a fun "Sounds of the Sea" game. Kids can also tickle his belly, squeeze his nose, or bounce him for a fun reaction. (Ages 2 - 4 years/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 14)
LITTLEST PET SHOP Style Set
Pulled right from the "Littlest Pet Shop" animated series, the LITTLEST PET SHOP style set is the hub of all activity for BLYTHE and her pet friends. Fans can create and decorate this stackable and customizable set with 135 pieces, including wall panels, accessories, reversible scene backdrop, stickers and Deco Bits -unique, small accessories that plug into LITTLEST PET SHOP pets and style sets for a little added glamour. Then fans can style their own pet shop, with colorful curtains, fabric rug, bookshelf, and other decorative pieces. Style set comes with three exclusive LITTLEST PET SHOP pets, including MINKA MARK monkey, SUNIL NEVLA mongoose, and KITTERY BANTER cat. The LITTLEST PET SHOP style set can be stacked with other LITTLEST PET SHOP style sets from Downtown City for additional world play. Each style set sold separately. (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 14)
MARVEL SUPER HERO MASHERS Action Figures Assortment
Mash up your hero, and then crack up your friends! Hasbro's MARVEL SUPER HERO MASHERS feature your favorite MARVEL Super Heroes and Villains with completely interchangeable parts and accessories, so kids can create their ultimate (or ultimately silly!) hero. Would a hero with SPIDER-MAN's body and HAWKEYE'S head shoot arrows or webs? With MARVEL SUPER HERO MASHERS, the possibilities are colossal for you to make YOUR mash-up! Thirteen figures will be available in this assortment in 2014, featuring favorite Marvel characters like CAPTAIN AMERICA, SPIDER-MAN and GREEN GOBLIN. Each figure is sold separately and comes with an accessory. (Ages: 4 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: January 14)
MY LITTLE PONY FRIENDSHIP RAINBOW KINGDOM Playset
MY LITTLE PONY fans can discover the newest royal empire inside the FRIENDSHIP RAINBOW KINGDOM castle playset, a grand three-level palace fit for a pony princess! Use the friendship keys to unlock a number of magical accessories within the kingdom, including a wardrobe, vanity, book, and treasure chest. Pony friends can travel the kingdom in style on the rolling cloud car, taking a ride down a fun swirly slide. Stops along the way include a lookout tower, golden balcony, swing, and more. Includes PRINCESS TWILIGHT SPARKLE figure, key, cloud car, and themed accessories. (Ages 3 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 14)
MY LITTLE PONY EQUESTRIA GIRLS Dolls That Rock
Fans of the MY LITTLE PONY EQUESTRIA GIRLS characters will love to sing alongside their favorite characters with the MY LITTLE PONY EQUESTRIA GIRLS Dolls That Rock collection. Kids can make the PINKIE PIE, TWILIGHT SPARKLE, or ADAGIO DAZZLE dolls high five and each doll will 'come to life,' singing the MY LITTLE PONY EQUESTRIA GIRLS song. Fans can also high five their dolls and sing along. Each doll comes complete with a variety of fashionable accessories including a musical instrument. Each doll sold separately. (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99/Available: Spring 14)
MY LITTLE PONY POP Playset
For the first time ever, fans can create and customize their very own MY LITTLE PONY play space! Simply pop out the easy-to-assemble pieces to build your own SUGARCUBE CORNER Sweet Shoppe playset, adding exciting elements like pink doors, magenta windows, and flower boxes. A chocolate frosted roof and cupcake tower make this the sweetest shop in PONYVILLE. Fans can decorate the MY LITTLE PONY POP playset with colorful candy stickers, adding gum drops, lollipops, and more. Playset includes one MY LITTLE PONY POP PINKIE PIE pony. (Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 14)
MY MONOPOLY Game
The world's favorite property trading game is getting personal in 2014! Now you can personalize your own MONOPOLY game in minutes! With the MY MONOPOLY App or Website, you can easily create your own personalized MONOPOLY game by customizing property spaces, game tokens, Chance Cards and Community Chest Cards to include your favorite people, places and things! Gather your images from Facebook, Instagram, Shutterfly, Flickr or your personal devices, print them out on your personalized MY MONOPOLY game stickers, stick them onto the game pieces and position them as you choose around the MY MONOPOLY game board and you're ready to play! Bring your favorite and funniest memories to life as you create your own MY MONOPOLY game experience. The My MONOPOLY app will be available on both iOS and Android platforms. (Players: 2-4/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: August 14)
NERF N-SPORTS BASH BALL
Grip it, whip it, slam it, kick it - the N-SPORTS BASH BALL is designed to play hard, no matter the game! The durable, versatile BASH BALL features a unique hollowed NERF foam core with grippable holes, allowing fans to make perfect passes and kicks with ease. Innovative design makes the BASH BALL perfect for dodge ball, handball, volleyball, freestyle soccer, kickball and more! Fans can choose between two colors, silver or navy. (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $12.99/Available: Spring 14)
NERF N-STRIKE ELITE NERF CAM Blaster
Epic NERF shots live on way past the initial blast with the N-STRIKE ELITE NERF CAM blaster! Giving NERF fans the innovation and connectivity they crave, the NERF CAM blaster allows them to capture and share footage of epic battles and missions. The first NERF blaster to feature a built-in camera, the NERF CAM blaster sends N-STRIKE ELITE darts flying up to an impressive 90 feet, records awesome NERF missions and lets NERF fans display them instantly on the playback screen or download them to share with friends for major bragging rights. Blaster includes a 4GB memory card which can hold up to 2,000 photos or 3 hours of video, 1.77" color screen, 12 dart clip and 12 N-STRIKE ELITE darts. (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $79.99/Available: Fall 14)
NERF REBELLE AGENT Bow
The NERF REBELLE AGENT BOW is perfect for high-profile missions that require accuracy and skill. Release the string and watch as the first ever Nerf Rebelle foam arrows soar up to 85 feet across the sky making a whistling sound! For added precision, the AGENT BOW features an electronic glowing red dot that provides better aiming accuracy with every shot. The NERF REBELLE AGENT BOW comes with three secret message foam arrows, a separate decoder, and a detachable quiver. (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $29.99/Available: Fall 14)
NERF REBELLE SUPER SOAKER DOLPHINA Bow
Take aim with the NERF REBELLE SUPER SOAKER DOLPHINA bow and unleash a soaking stream! Make your move with strength and style, and show your skill at hitting the target with a full blast of water! This water blaster features an iconic bow shape. Simply push the handle forward and pull back to release a stream of cool water on your unsuspecting opponent! (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $16.99/Available: Spring 14)
NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE CROSSFIRE Bow
Protect your human allies with the ZOMBIE STRIKE CROSSFIRE bow, which brings iconic crossbow action to the NERF line for the first time in almost twenty years! Boasting 75 foot ELITE distance, superior accuracy and authentic pull-back firing action, the CROSSFIRE bow is a great asset in the human zombie struggle. Crossbow features front-loading firing capability and comes complete with four NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE darts. (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Spring 14)
PLAY-DOH CAKE MOUNTAIN Playset
It's layers of fun at the CAKE MOUNTAIN playset! With the new CAKE MOUNTAIN playset there are tons of ways to make amazing cake creations. The fun starts at the top when you load one of three different cake molds with PLAY-DOH compound, then 'press and pop' to make your cake! Use the half molds on the playset to add fun details and PLAY-DOH treats, then pile on the PLAY-DOH PLUS frosting! Separate the bottom layer to uncover more half-molds and fun ways to play - it's two play sets in one. You can even decorate the outside of the cake, adding colorful plastic candles or turn them into PLAY-DOH lollipops! Set includes an extruder, six candles, a knife, a fork, two plates, three 2 ounce cans of PLAY-DOH compound and two 2 ounce cans of PLAY-DOH PLUS compound. (Ages 3 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 14)
SIMON SWIPE Game
This bold new game is a modern take on the classic recall challenger SIMON game. With hypnotic colors, flashing lights, cool sounds, and gameplay based on a smooth swipe action, the SIMON SWIPE game starts easy and then speeds up with patterns you'll have to move quickly to repeat. Tap or swipe, but don't get it wrong! For one player or a party of friends. Four games, 16 levels of frantic fun! (Ages: 8 & up/Players: 1 or more/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 14)
TRANSFORMERS BATTLE MASTERS 2 PACK
Who will win - OPTIMUS PRIME or MEGATRON? Get the all-new TRANSFORMERS BATTLE MASTERS 2 PACK to battle it out and see who will be the ultimate bot-smashing champ! Comes with a special digital code that unlocks more features in the TRANSFORMERS BATTLE MASTERS app (available April 2014). Includes two characters and two controllers. (Ages: 5 & up /Players: 1 - 2/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99/Available: May 14)
TRANSFORMERS RESCUE BOTS OPTIMUS PRIMAL Figure
OPTIMUS PRIME robot goes primal! With one simple twist of the torso, everyone's favorite AUTOBOT hero will convert from bot to Tyrannosaurus Rex! The OPTIMUS PRIMAL figure features over 20 phrases and dino sound effects and will even let out a load 'roar' in dino mode. Little adventurers won't be able to resist the awesome special effects, like the blue Energize Hide activation panel, dino chomping action, and working rescue drill. (Ages 3-7 years /Approx. Retail Price: $34.99/Available: Fall 14)
About Hasbro, Inc.
Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ:HAS) is a branded play company dedicated to fulfilling the fundamental need for play for children and families through the creative expression of the Company's world class brand portfolio, including TRANSFORMERS, MONOPOLY, PLAY-DOH, MY LITTLE PONY, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, NERF and LITTLEST PET SHOP. From toys and games, to television programming, motion pictures, digital gaming and a comprehensive licensing program, Hasbro strives to delight its global customers with innovative play and entertainment experiences, in a variety of forms and formats, anytime and anywhere. The Company's Hasbro Studios develops and produces television programming for more than 170 markets around the world, and for the U.S. on Hub Network, part of a multi-platform joint venture between Hasbro and Discovery Communications (NASDAQ:DISCA, DISCB, DISCK). Through the company's deep commitment to corporate social responsibility, including philanthropy, Hasbro is helping to build a safe and sustainable world for future generations and to positively impact the lives of millions of children and families every year. It has been recognized for its efforts by being named one of the "World's Most Ethical Companies" and is ranked as one of Corporate Responsibility Magazine's "100 Best Corporate Citizens." Learn more at www.hasbro.com.
The Transformers Brand from Hasbro Reborn with Thrilling New "Age of Extinction" Toys
New Play Patterns - including One-Step Changers - make the "Robots in Disguise" More Fun and Intuitive for Kids Than Ever Before!
PAWTUCKET, R.I. -- February 15, 2014 -- Hasbro, Inc. unveiled its fun and innovative new TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION toy line today at The American International Toy Fair in New York, marking the biggest reinvention of the TRANSFORMERS toys in the brand's 30-year history. Inspired by the new movie TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION, in theaters this June from Paramount Pictures and director Michael Bay, the new TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION line has been re-imagined to excite and engage a new generation of kids. Kids can convert robots to vehicles - or, in the case of the eagerly awaited new DINOBOT characters, robots to dinos - in as little as one step with new fun actions, including flip-to-change and smash-to-change.
"The new TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION line is all about capturing the magic of the TRANSFORMERS characters for kids," said Eric Nyman, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing, Hasbro. "The new ONE-STEP CHANGERS, POWER BATTLERS and FLIP & CHANGE figures, along with spotlight toys like MEGA ONE-STEP BUMBLEBEE and STOMP 'N CHOMP GRIMLOCK, make converting the characters from robot to vehicle as simple and as magical as it looks onscreen. With the new TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION line and new lifestyle and digital programs, it's easier than ever for kids to get into the TRANSFORMERS action."
Inspired by the new film, Hasbro's TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION line for 2014 features eagerly awaited new characters like GRIMLOCK and the DINOBOTS, and innovative new play patterns-including one-step changers and flip-to-change action-designed to make the TRANSFORMERS line more fun and intuitive for kids. The new evolution of the classic play pattern makes the robot-to-vehicle conversions feel like magic, letting kids experience the excitement and fast-paced action of the films through action figure play. Hasbro will also expand two of its popular TRANSFORMERS toy lines-TRANSFORMERS KRE-O construction sets and TRANSFORMERS CONSTRUCT-BOTS buildable action figures-using the new characters and DINOBOTS from the new film.
TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION, hitting theaters in the U.S. on June 27th of this year, marks the fourth big-screen TRANSFORMERS film from director Michael Bay and Paramount Pictures. The new film introduces a new cast of human characters, including Mark Wahlberg as Cade Yeager, and unites a cast of new and returning TRANSFORMERS robot characters, including eagerly awaited new additions like AUTOBOT DRIFT, CROSSHAIRS, as well as GRIMLOCK and the DINOBOTS and classic characters like OPTIMUS PRIME and BUMBLEBEE!
In 2014, more than 200 top-tier licensees around the world in a variety of lifestyle, digital and publishing categories will bring TRANSFORMERS branded products to life, including FAB for backpacks, multiple apparel licensees, Activision for console games and IDW Publishing for comics and graphic novels. In addition, Hasbro has entered into a licensing relationship with Innovation First to create TRANSFORMERS HEXBUG WARRIORS and HEXBUG NANO product lines, and with Tech4Kids to create a variety of TRANSFORMERS-themed active and outdoor toys.
Transformers fans over 13 years of age can get the latest updates on the entire TRANSFORMERS brand, including toys and entertainment, at the Official TRANSFORMERS Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TRANSFORMERS.
About Hasbro, Inc.
Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ:HAS) is a branded play company dedicated to fulfilling the fundamental need for play for children and families through the creative expression of the Company's world class brand portfolio, including TRANSFORMERS, MONOPOLY, PLAY-DOH, MY LITTLE PONY, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, NERF and LITTLEST PET SHOP. From toys and games, to television programming, motion pictures, digital gaming and a comprehensive licensing program, Hasbro strives to delight its global customers with innovative play and entertainment experiences, in a variety of forms and formats, anytime and anywhere. The Company's Hasbro Studios develops and produces television programming for more than 180 markets around the world, and for the U.S. on Hub Network, part of a multi-platform joint venture between Hasbro and Discovery Communications (NASDAQ:DISCA, DISCB, DISCK). Through the company's deep commitment to corporate social responsibility, including philanthropy, Hasbro is helping to build a safe and sustainable world for future generations and to positively impact the lives of millions of children and families every year. It has been recognized for its efforts by being named one of the "World's Most Ethical Companies" and is ranked as one of Corporate Responsibility Magazine's "100 Best Corporate Citizens." Learn more at www.hasbro.com.
Jazwares Unveils Gravity Falls Toy Line at American International Toy Fair 2014
NEW YORK, Feb. 18, 2014 -- Jazwares™, a global leader in the toy and electronics marketplace, announced today its plans to create a new Gravity Falls toy line. The new toy line, based on the popular Disney TV series, will include figures, plush, role-play and play-set toys based on Dipper and Mabel's adventures with Grunkle Stan, his mysterious journal, and The Mystery Shack. Jazwares™ will release the first wave of Gravity Falls toys in fall 2014 at retailers across the U.S.
Gravity Falls is a top show on Disney Channel with kids 2-11, kids 6-11 and tweens 9-14, ranking #1 in its time period across the major youth demographics. The hit show follows the adventures of twin brother and sister, Dipper and Mabel Pines as they spend summer with their eccentric great uncle Stan in the wondrous town of Gravity Falls, Oregon where things are never as they seem.
"We are delighted to help bring the Gravity Falls story to life in toys," said Laura Zebersky, executive Vice President Global Sales & Licensing, Jazwares™. "More than anything, we're great fans of the show and are excited to work with Disney on creating such a fun line for its audience to interact with its characters directly."
The initial retail focus of the toy line will be in specialty stores, nationwide.
The announcement of the Gravity Falls™ toy line complements a robust brand portfolio for the company. For more information about all of Jazwares' current lines, please visit www.jazwares.com.
About Jazwares, Inc.
With its focus on creativity, innovation and function, Jazwares has established itself as a well-respected leader in the licensed products industry. Delivering diverse lines of toys and consumer electronics, their products feature some of the best entertainment properties in the world. Today, through the expertise of their product development team, Jazwares continues to offer a wide array of merchandise at major retailers globally. Their portfolio includes: Minecraft™, Adventure Time™, Regular Show, One Direction, Plants vs. Zombies™, Yo Gabba Gabba!™, WWE™, Sonic the Hedgehog™ and Teen Titans Go!™, among others. Jazwares' goal is to invent toys and related products that are new to the marketplace, featuring the brands kids want, at an affordable price. For more information about Jazwares, Inc., please visit www.jazwares.com.
Jazwares™ Announces Minecraft™ Series 2 Figures
Diamond Steve, Iron Golem, Blacksmith and Animals to Populate The Overworld
NEW YORK, Feb. 16, 2014 -- Jazwares™, a leader in the toy marketplace, announced today the expansion of its core Minecraft™ action figure line. "Series #2" will feature core-scale figure packs of Diamond Armor Steve, Iron Golem, Blacksmith Villager and a deluxe Animal Mobs 6-pack.
The Diamond Armor Steve pack will include Steve with removable helmet, diamond sword and diamond ore block. The Iron Golem pack will come with accessories including a poppy flower and a block of iron. The Blacksmith Villager pack will include a removable apron and an anvil accessory. And, the Animal Mobs 6-pack will include one of each of the following: Cow, Sheep, Tamed Wolf, Pig, Ocelot, and Chicken.
All of the new items will be available at retailers this spring.
About Jazwares, Inc.
With its focus on creativity, innovation and function, Jazwares has established itself as a well-respected leader in the licensed products industry. Delivering diverse lines of toys and consumer electronics, their products feature some of the best entertainment properties in the world. Today, through the expertise of their product development team, Jazwares continues to offer a wide array of merchandise at major retailers globally. Their portfolio includes: Minecraft™, Adventure Time™, Regular Show, One Direction, Plants vs. Zombies™, Star Wars™, Yo Gabba Gabba!™, WWE™, Sonic the Hedgehog™ and Teen Titans Go!™, among others. Jazwares' goal is to invent toys and related products that are new to the marketplace, featuring the brands kids want, at an affordable price. For more information about Jazwares, Inc., please visit www.jazwares.com.
Jazwares™ to Create "NBA Heroes" Superstar Action Figures
'Heroes' Figures Take New Approach to World's Best Basketball Players
NEW YORK, Feb. 16, 2014 -- Jazwares™, a leader in the licensed toys and electronics marketplace, announced today a new licensing agreement with the National Basketball Association to create the first-ever line of NBA Heroes action figures, play sets and role play toys. The line will be available in the U.S. & Canada this fall.
The new and innovative approach to professional basketball players will feature classic action figure attributes, fused with super-heroic alter egos. To help establish such character duality, the collection's tagline announces: "Stars of the game. Heroes off the court."
'NBA™ Heroes' will start its lineup with some of the NBA's top players including LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Blake Griffin, Derrick Rose, Carmelo Anthony, and Deron Williams with additional players coming soon. Releasing later this year, the fully-articulated figures will be done in six-inch scale proportionate to each player's height and build. The collection will be accompanied by a separate, feature-filled environmental play set.
"This line represents an exciting combination of high-profile, celebrity athletes and creative play, and introduces a new platform for toys and entertainment," said Laura Zebersky, executive Vice President Global Sales & Licensing, Jazwares™. "The rich heritage of the NBA and our approach to NBA Heroes will bring a unique and compelling style of play that has not been done until now."
The announcement of the NBA license brings a new dimension to an already robust line-up of brands and is among several new deals announced this week. For more information about all of Jazwares' current lines, please visit www.jazwares.com.
About Jazwares, Inc.
With its focus on creativity, innovation and function, Jazwares has established itself as a well-respected leader in the licensed products industry. Delivering diverse lines of toys and consumer electronics, their products feature some of the best entertainment properties in the world. Today, through the expertise of their product development team, Jazwares continues to offer a wide array of merchandise at major retailers globally. Their portfolio includes: Minecraft™, Adventure Time™, Regular Show, One Direction, Plants vs. Zombies™, Star Wars™, Yo Gabba Gabba!™, WWE™, Sonic the Hedgehog™ and Teen Titans Go!™, among others. Jazwares' goal is to invent toys and related products that are new to the marketplace, featuring the brands kids want, at an affordable price. For more information about Jazwares, Inc., please visit www.jazwares.com.
NECA Unveils Hot New Product Line-Ups At New York Toy Fair
Action figure firsts feature heavily in announcements
NEW YORK, Feb. 18, 2014 -- Today at the 111th American International Toy Fair in New York, National Entertainment Collectibles Association (NECA), the world leader in licensed consumer goods, wowed attendees with an exciting line-up of new products from the biggest and best movies, video games and comic books. WizKids Games, NECA's games publisher and the leading innovator in collectible miniatures gaming, kept up the pace with a wealth of new products across major licenses, as well as hands-on game demos.
Specific announcements follow:
SCALERS
Scalers, the hottest accessories yet to hit the world of electronics, were front and center in the NECA booth thanks to their unprecedented popularity with fans. The new line of collectible mini-figures clip to headphone cords, device cables and anything else they can fit their little hands around, and feature monstrously cute versions of popular licensed characters! Adding to the frenzy surrounding the first wave of mini-figures, in stores now, NECA revealed the next group of characters set to join the Scalers family this spring.
The second wave will include Cornelius (classic PLANET OF THE APES), Knifehead (PACIFIC RIM), and Batman and The Joker (classic DC COMICS), plus two more heavy hitters to be revealed in the coming days. Throughout 2014, iconic characters from over 50 different licenses will join the line. For video and more information, visit www.necaonline.com/scalers
ALIEN 35TH ANNIVERSARY
As part of the 35th anniversary celebration of the ground-breaking movie ALIEN, NECA will release the first-ever action figures of main character Ellen Ripley that feature the likeness and approval of actress Sigourney Weaver, who was nominated for an Oscar® and Golden Globe® for ALIENS in 1987. Initial plans include a figure of Ripley in her Nostromo jumpsuit from the original 1979 film, to be followed later by a Ripley figure based on the 1986 movie ALIENS, directed by James Cameron. Prototypes will debut later this summer at San Diego Comic-Con.
The celebration will continue through the year, with a special 35th Anniversary figure appearing in each series of Alien 7" action figures. Visitors to the booth got a rare peek at Series 3, scheduled for July; Series 4 is slated for autumn.
NECA also revealed a spectacular summer treat for fans: two Deluxe 35th Anniversary releases, both completely in scale with the main action figure line. The massive Alien Queen Ultra Deluxe Boxed Action Figure will arrive in July, shortly before the release of the iconic Power Loader exoskeleton, which is famously used by Lt. Ripley to battle the Alien Queen in one of the most thrilling scenes in the 1987 movie.
GODZILLA
The upcoming theatrical release of GODZILLA features the beloved monster in a spectacular adventure to save the world! To meet the demands of the legions of dedicated GODZILLA fans around the world, NECA's line for the movie will be appropriately gargantuan. The company will offer highly detailed action figures in different sizes: 6" tall figures (12" head-to-tail), and 12" tall figures (a whopping 24" head-to-tail). NECA also revealed a mighty line of accessories, giftware, apparel, bags, bedding, smartphone cases, jewelry and more, plus GODZILLA collectible mini-figures and a Connect with Pieces puzzle-building game from WizKids.
NECA also thrilled the crowds with the announcement that a series of action figures and additional new products based on the classic GODZILLA movies was in the works, and would begin release later in the summer.
DIVERGENT
With over 12 million copies of Veronica Roth's DIVERGENT novels already sold, the world is counting the days until the first movie adaptation of the young adult series hits theaters next month. NECA's official line for DIVERGENT will cover an exceptional variety of products, from jewelry and giftware to apparel and games, plus special exclusives, which will include authentic prop replica clothing duplicated from actual screen-worn garments. Ardent fans will also be able to bring home main characters Tris and Four with NECA's newly revealed 7" action figures, featuring photo-realistic likenesses of the movie actors.
PACIFIC RIM
NECA continues to "Go Big" with new additions to its best-selling action figures from the sci-fi action movie PACIFIC RIM. The first three series of 8" figures sold out immediately; Series 4 will include kaiju Axehead and Scunner, created directly from the digital files used by ILM in the making of the epic movie. Going even bigger, visitors to the booth got a first look at the 18" Knifehead action figure, and NECA confirmed that there will be even more large-scale figures to follow. Next in line to battle the toxic kaiju will be an 18" Cherno Alpha, with more figures to be revealed at a later date.
DC COMICS
One of the most talked-about figures of 2013 was NECA's limited edition 1/4 Scale 1966 BATMAN, the first ever to feature the likeness of Adam West from the beloved television series, and an instant sellout in stores. This year NECA made waves again by announcing the companion piece, a 1/4 scale 1966 Robin action figure sculpted in the image of actor Burt Ward and featuring the same high quality accessories and loving attention to detail as the first figure.
For DC fans who love to play, WizKids unveiled a new addition to its award-winning HeroClix tabletop game! The new collectible miniature game pieces in DC HEROCLIX: WAR OF LIGHT features heroes and villains from the electrifying "War of Light" story arc set in the GREEN LANTERN universe. WizKids also announced a multi-month, in-store Storyline Organized Play event for WAR OF LIGHT - with exclusive prizes for winners - that will officially begin in June 2014.
MARVEL
Visitors to the booth delighted in a first look at WizKids MARVEL HEROCLIX releases for several upcoming movies from the comic book giant, including CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER and GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY. The highly anticipated dice-building game MARVEL DICE MASTERS: AVENGERS VS. X-MEN was also available for in-depth previews and demos.
PREDATOR
NECA's fan-favorite series of action figures based on the cult classic PREDATOR movie franchise continues! The company offered a sneak preview of the new 7" scale Series 12 figures, due in June, and revealed exciting news about future of the line. Series 13, scheduled for late August, will include Cracked Tusk, Scavage and Renegade. The release will coincide with another landmark for the line: the newly revealed Blade Fighter Vehicle with Exclusive Pilot Figure, which continues NECA's heartfelt tribute to the Kenner Predator line so many fans grew up with.
RETRO ACTION FIGURES
Breaking new ground for action figures, NECA lifted the curtain on the newest members of its Retro Clothed 8" Action Figure line, which now includes the first action figure ever made of Jason from FRIDAY THE 13TH PART 5. Other additions to the smash hit line include Jason from FRIDAY THE 13TH PART 2; gruesome mascot Eddie from the cover of Iron Maiden's single THE TROOPER; and Deadite Ash from EVIL DEAD 2. All are scheduled for a summer 2014 release. The upcoming EVIL DEAD 2 Hero Ash figure, due in late April, was also on display.
A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET
NECA's newest authentic prop replica was on proud display in the booth: Freddy's Glove from A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 3: DREAM WARRIORS. The movie-accurate, wearable prop replica glove will be available in July.
ROBOCOP
After receiving an overwhelming number of requests from fans, NECA went to work, and is extremely excited to announce that one of the most frequently requested ROBOCOP figures will arrive in retail this June. The Deluxe Robocop Figure with Jetpack and Cobra Assault Cannon includes removable accessories from the original 1987 movie and ROBOCOP 3, all of which are completely compatible with previous ROBOCOP figure releases.
YU-GI-OH!
It's dueling time! NECA has teamed up again with 4K Media, the North American licensing arm of Konami, to celebrating the classic monsters of YU-GI-OH! with a second series of 3.75-inch figures based on the classic trading card game art. Series 2 will include Summoned Skull, Red Eyes Black Dragon and Gate Guardian — all duelist favorites — on deluxe bases with backdrops. The partnership will embrace the anime side of YU-GI-OH! this April, with the highly anticipated YU-GI-OH! HEROCLIX: SERIES ONE, which adds over 50 all-new figures based on the popular animated series to WizKids' best-selling tabletop game.
About NECA
National Entertainment Collectibles Association Inc. is a media and entertainment company operating in the United States and internationally, with three segments: Consumer Products, Filmed Entertainment and Online Retail/Digital Distribution. NECA is the leading designer, marketer, and worldwide distributor of licensed entertainment consumer goods based on some of the world's most established and beloved properties, providing products across all consumer categories and distribution channels. Together, NECA's divisions provide a comprehensive, end-to-end solution to elevate each property, maximizing exposure and reach, while protecting the vision of the creator. As a result of NECA's singular passion and reverence for the intellectual property backing its products, some of this generation's most recognized content creators enjoy working with NECA, allowing us to help bring their vision to their audience. For additional information, visit www.necaonline.com.
About WizKids
WizKids/NECA, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NECA, is a New Jersey-based game developer and publisher dedicated to creating games driven by imagination. WizKids first pioneered the Combat Dial system featured in HeroClix, the most successful collectible miniatures game on the market today, with over 400 million miniature game figures sold worldwide. WizKids continues to produce new proprietary game platforms and properties including the award-winning board game Mage Knight, the groundbreaking Dice Building Game engine used in the critically-acclaimed game Quarriors, as well as the innovative Connect with Pieces puzzle building game platform. For additional information, visit www.wizkidsgames.com.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Rise To New Heights At American International Toy Fair In New York City
Playmates Toys to Introduce Action-Packed Additions to Line, Including Zip-Lining Turtles
EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb. 14, 2014 -- Playmates Toys, the company behind the beloved Teenage Mutant Ninjas Turtles toy line over the last three decades, is set to introduce its all-new 2014 line, inspired by Nickelodeon's hit CG-animated show. The lineup provides non-stop Ninja adventures, including playsets that allow the Turtles to zip line, new action figures with unique interactive features and a new segment designed especially for preschoolers. The complete line will be on display at the American International Toy Fair in New York City, February 16-19, 2014, Booth #2227.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, considered one of the most popular kids' entertainment brands of the 1980s, made a triumphant return in September 2012 with the launch of Nickelodeon's CG-animated show and an all-new toy line inspired by the show from Playmates Toys. Now in its second season, the series continues to be a hit with audiences. The toy line is also a proven success, with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles once again becoming the number one action figure line in the toy industry, while also receiving numerous industry awards.
"The enormous success of the toy line since its epic return in 2012 demonstrates the timeless appeal of the heroes in a half shell," said Karl Aaronian, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Playmates Toys. "Playmates Toys is proud to continue the evolution of the toy line, which offers unique new features and scenarios that provide kids as young as three with open-ended and imaginative Ninja play."
"Playmates Toys have outdone themselves with a robust 2014 product assortment that truly captures the heart and soul of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," said Manuel Torres, Senior Vice President, Global Toys and Publishing. "The introduction of Half-Shell Heroes and Z-Line Ninjas, coupled with the amazing refresh of our core line will have our fans oozing with excitement! We're looking forward to another monumental year for Turtles."
Highlights of the 2014 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles line from Playmates Toys include the following:
Action Figures
The Basic Action Figure assortment continues to grow with the addition of more than 25 new figures in 2014, including some of the most beloved characters from the original 1990's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series such as Casey Jones, Mutagen Man and Slash. The highly detailed action figures are fully articulated and uniquely sculpted, with heights ranging from 4" to 5.5". Each figure is equipped with unique accessories and is compatible with most of the vehicles and playsets in the line. Figures launching in the spring include Casey Jones, Kirby Bat, Rahzar, Mutagen Man and Slash. Figures launching in the fall include the Robotic Foot Soldier, Dojo Splinter, Newtralizer and Squirrelanoid.
Playmates Toys is truly putting the action back into action figures with the introduction of the Ninja Action Deluxe Figures. Kids can wind the figures up and watch as they perform Ninja moves, including awesome front flips, non-stop Ninja cartwheels and extreme knee spins! The collection includes Ninja Cartwheelin' Leonardo, Ninja Front Flipping Raphael and Ninja Strikin' Michelangelo.
Kids' favorite heroes in a half shell come to life with the new 11" Interactive Talking Turtles. These Turtles have a lot to say and can even talk to one another. Each Turtle knows when one of their brothers is talking and can even provide their own unique responses. When all four of the Turtles are together, kids can listen as their personalities come to life! The collection includes Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo.
With the Stretch N Shout Action Figures, kids can hear the "battle shouts" of their favorite Turtles, allowing the individual personalities of the Turtles to shine through. Each figure stands over 8" tall, comes with their core accessories and features stretchable arms. Kids can stretch the Turtles' arms, listening to the pitch get higher as the arms are stretched further. The collection includes Leonardo and Raphael.
Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo are always ready for a battle against Shredder and the evil Foot Clan, and now the Turtles can be thrown into the battle with the Throw N' Battle Deluxe Figures. Decked out in their night ninja outfits, the Throw N' Battle Turtles start out in stealth mode with their legs and arms folded behind their head. Give them a toss into the battle and they spring to their feet, unleash their weapons and are ready to take out Shredder and the Foot!
Z-Line Ninja Playsets
The all-new collection of Z-line Ninja playsets allows kids to zip their Turtles action figures around the room and from wall to wall. The playsets attach safely to walls and the zip-lines are easily connected, allowing kids to trigger a chain reaction, launching even more Turtle figures! The line includes two basic playsets, Freefall Fire Escape and Window Wipeout, as well as two deluxe playsets, Water Tower Washout and Billboard Breakout. For the ultimate zip-lining fans, the Construction Crane Cascade is an action-packed playset featuring a high flying pully system that allows kids to zip their Turtles from greater heights to gain attack speed. Each playset includes a gargoyle launcher, zip-lines, angle gauge and more. For extended Ninja play, all Z-line Ninja sets connect to create a world of zip-line action! Action figures are sold separately.
Half Shell Heroes Preschool Segment
For the first time, kids as young as three can join in non-stop Ninja fun. The all-new Half Shell Heroes segment includes action figures, vehicles and playsets, sized just right for preschool hands. It allows little ones to enjoy open-ended imaginative play adventures with the whole family of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles heroes and mutants.
The line includes an assortment of 2.5" action figures, including Leo with Luge, Mikey with Skateboard and Raph with Mini Cycle. The Shellraiser, the renowned Turtles group vehicle, is also featured in the line, allowing preschoolers to drive the Turtles into their next battle. Additionally, the Secret Sewer HQ Playset with Mikey and Splinter is packed with exciting Ninja action features, allowing little ones to engage in endless Ninja play. Rounding out the line is the Mega Mutant Leonardo, which allows little ones to practice ninja training with Leonardo as they control his ninja kicks and chops.
Vehicles
An iconic group vehicle from the original TV series is back! The new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Blimp inflates to about 30 inches long, features Turtle gliding wings, authentic Turtle graphics, holds up to five of the Turtles basic action figures and includes a rappelling system to quickly drop the Turtles into battle! The blimp's easy grip handle helps kids to maneuver the battle between the Turtles and Shredder and the Foot.
About Playmates Toys
With a history of over 40 years, Playmates Toys is today among the most well-respected and innovative marketing and distribution companies in the global toy industry with a proven history in the creation of imaginative products as well as the development and management of profitable, long-term brand franchises. Key brands include TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES, HEARTS FOR HEARTS GIRLS and WATERBABIES. From its offices in Hong Kong and California, Playmates designs, develops, markets and distributes its products in over 60 countries worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.playmatestoys.com or http://facebook.com/playmatestoys
About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, now in its 33rd year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 18 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB)
TOMY Builds On Bestselling, Award-Winning Global Brands With Action And Innovation At Toy Fair 2014
Battroborg™ Warrior takes motion-controlled battling to the next level, Pokémon transforms kids into trainers, Chuggington StackTrack™ soars to new heights and all-new Sonic the Hedgehog line debuts.
OAK BROOK, Ill., Feb. 17, 2014 -- TOMY International, a leading global designer, producer and marketer of a broad range of innovative, high-quality toys that kids love and parents ask for by name, previews its 2014 line-up at American International Toy Fair (Booth #2273). The Battroborg™ motion-controlled battling robot brand adds stealth, weaponized warriors, the sought-after Pokémon line expands with fun-filled role-play toys, and Chuggington StackTrack™ playsets feature working mega cranes, escalators and elevators that give die-cast engines a lift no matter how tall kids stack their track. In addition, TOMY unveils a brand new toy line as the newly-named master toy partner for Sonic the Hedgehog, while John Deere digs deeper into toys with its Gear Force preschool line.
"This year we are significantly expanding our offerings of innovative new toys across all our award-winning, best-selling owned and licensed brands," says Greg Kilrea, President and Chief Executive Officer of TOMY International. "We are able to achieve this by leveraging the talents and assets of our global resources, driving innovation in new and existing product lines and furthering our goal of delivering the best in branded play experiences to consumers throughout the world."
Highlights of what's new across TOMY brands for 2014 include:
Battroborg
TOMY is hauling out the big blades in its next-generation Battroborg Warrior line. Taking the best of motion control battling, which made the original Battroborg one of 2013's hottest holiday toys, Battroborg Warrior evolves the borgs from bare knuckle brawlers to stealth, weaponized warriors. The revolutionary robots feature interchangeable weaponry that takes battle play to a whole new, customizable level. Players choose their Warrior from themes including Samurai, Ninja, Knight and Viking, then customize and outfit them for battle with interchangeable weapons. The single-handled katana blade controller challenges players to perfect their swordsmanship; as players slice and cut with the katana controller, the Battroborg Warriors are thrust into battle. The new Warrior Battle Arena adds to the challenge with working trap doors, and spring-loaded training flags help players master the art of motion control. MSRP: Battle Arena with 2 Warriors--$69.99; Warrior Single Pack--$29.99. Ages: 6 years and up.
Sonic the Hedgehog
TOMY has recently been named master toy partner for SEGA's Sonic the Hedgehog toy categories including plush, action figures, RC, role play, vehicles and novelty. This year SEGA introduces a new branch of the Sonic universe, entitled Sonic Boom, that will include a CG animated television series, new video games for the Wii U system and the Nintendo 3DS hand-held system, and a new toy line by TOMY. The high-quality, collectible toy line fueled by TOMY innovation, features a 3-inch figure with launcher, a 12-inch talking plush and a Sonic Mask that will transform boys into Sonic the Hedgehog.
John Deere
John Deere digs deeper into the toy industry by introducing a brand new and exciting addition to the line: Gear Force-action-packed toy vehicles that offer endless farm and off-road excitement, made especially for the preschool crowd. Each Gear Force set is a complete adventure in a box, and is available in an assortment of vehicles, poseable and articulated character figures and animals, and themed accessories. Plus, each set is compatible with all other John Deere Gear Force sets for tons of play possibilities. Highlights of the new 2014 John Deere line from TOMY include:
Pokémon
As the exclusive licensee and distributor for Pokémon in categories including figures, figure accessories, plush, playsets, role-play and more, TOMY debuts its all-new line for one of the world's leading kids' entertainment franchises. New for 2014, TOMY premieres its first line of role-play items designed to help transform kids into Pokémon trainers. Highlights include:
Chuggington StackTrack
Chuggington StackTrack™ - the first-ever train track system designed to build vertical layouts - reaches new heights with more action, excitement and elevation than ever before. For the first time, new StackTrack sets feature working escalators, elevators and mega cranes, helping die-cast engines scale the super-tall layouts and enhancing interactivity for even more Chuggington fun. Discover high speed tunnels, busy train yards and adventurous new engines in the 2014 Chuggington StackTrack line, brimming with characters, locations and equipment based on new TV episodes from Ludorum's popular animated series. This year, TOMY inspires fans to get creative and combine Chuggington playsets and track pieces to create amazing Megabuilds with the launch of Megabuild Junction (www.stackyourtrack.com). Megabuild Junction showcases awe-inspiring layouts and provides instructions at a variety of different building skill levels so kids can combine existing playsets and create mega-exciting Megabuilds.
Step-by-step instructions tell which sets and track pieces are used, encouraging kids to re-create the sample Megabuilds or challenge their imaginations to create new combinations, and then share photos or videos of their Megabuilds on social media. Featured playsets in the 2014 Chuggington StackTrack line include:
Chuggington Wooden Railway
Chuggington Wooden Railway combines classic wooden toy train play and the exciting world of Chuggington, based on Ludorum's popular animated series. The line is great for first train sets, collectors and gifts. Highlights of new 2014 items include:
Lamaze
The Lamaze Infant Development System is a comprehensive collection of soft toys and activity gyms based on Lamaze International's philosophy of healthy parenting, making Lamaze toys by TOMY the ideal baby shower gift for expecting moms. Lamaze understands that what matters most to parents is keeping their children healthy, happy and safe. Designed in conjunction with child development experts and building on the brand's popular award-winning product lines, new 2014 introductions include:
TOMY Toys
The TOMY Toys toddler line is comprised of innovative products that come alive and engage children in endless hours of play. These magical, interactive toys get toddlers toddling with action, lights, music and sound, while also bringing back nostalgic memories to parents who may recall loving similar items from their own childhoods. Push N' Chase Turtle (MSRP: $10.99, ages 9 months and up) is a push along, push n' go and rattle all in one, that promotes baby's muscle development and encourages crawling. Counting with Luke the Loop (MSRP: $24.99, ages 18 months and up) keeps toddlers active while teaching them to count in 4 different languages. Soar Luke through the air or push him along to the sounds of whimsical music, engine and a turning propeller. Ride N' Rock Playhorse (MSRP: $69.99, ages 12 months and up) is a portable, compact 5-in-1 toddler activity center loaded with features to keep baby engaged and active, with a Rocking Horse, Ride-on, Push-along, Storage and Wagon.
About TOMY International
TOMY International (www.tomy.com) is a leading global designer, producer and marketer of a broad range of innovative, high-quality toys sold to preschoolers, youths and adults under the TOMY®, Ertl®, Johnny Lightning®, Battroborg™ and Tomica® brands as well as products for parents, infants and toddlers marketed under its The First Years®, Lamaze, JJ Cole® Collections and Boon® brands. TOMY International also markets its products under popular and classic licensed properties such as John Deere, Pokémon, Chuggington, Sonic the Hedgehog, Dinosaur Train, Disney's Winnie the Pooh, Princesses, Cars, Fairies and Toy Story, and other well-known properties. TOMY International's mission is to inspire and fulfill the dreams of children and parents worldwide. TOMY International reaches its target consumers through multiple channels of distribution supporting more than 25,000 retail outlets throughout North and South America, Europe and Australia. TOMY International is a wholly owned subsidiary of Japan-based TOMY Company, Ltd. (Tokyo Stock Exchange Code No. 7867). © TOMY
LEGO® JUNIORS Joins the Playroom
-Iconic themes and age-appropriate building experiences tailored for young builders-
NEW YORK, Feb. 14, 2014 -- AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL TOY FAIR -- LEGO Systems, Inc., makers of the world's leading construction toys, today announced its newest addition to the LEGO® building system - LEGO JUNIORS. Designed specifically for children four to six years of age, LEGO JUNIORS are fun, age-appropriate building sets that provide children with a positive first building experience. Available in March, LEGO JUNIORS sets will range in price from $9.99 to $49.99.
"LEGO JUNIORS is tailor-made to help young builders gain confidence, whether they are transitioning from LEGO DUPLO® or just starting to build with classic LEGO bricks," said Michelle Wilson, senior brand manager, LEGO Systems, Inc. "We know that construction play benefits young children on multiple dimensions nurturing cognitive and motor skills along with developing social, emotional and imaginative skills; we're thrilled to offer a new line to make it even easier for children to have a great first experience building."
A Positive First-Time Building Experience
Easy-to-follow building instructions, colorful photos and playful guidance help to ensure a smooth transition to independent building. Quick start elements and modular bricks and elements, such as walls and archways, facilitate easy builds -- giving children out-of-the-box success. Storytelling and creative play is inspired by a variety of iconic themes from police to horse farm to super heroes.
What Will They Build First?
With 13 LEGO JUNIORS products debuting in 2014 there is a variety of themes and sets to inspire every child.
Classic themes such as Construction ($14.99), Fire Emergency ($19.99), Police - The Big Escape, Race Car Rally and Pony Farm ($29.99 each), are joined by popular licenses including Spider-Man™: Spider-Car Pursuit ($12.99), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles™: Turtles™ Lair ($19.99) and Batman™: Defend the Batcave ($29.99).
Knights' Castle ($49.99) and The Princess Play Castle ($14.99) allow children to explore new kingdoms and far-off lands.
Vehicle Suitcase and House Suitcase ($24.99 each) are ideal travel companions for grab-and-go building fun.
About LEGO Systems, Inc.
LEGO Systems, Inc. is the North American division of The LEGO Group, a privately-held, family-owned company based in Billund, Denmark, one of the world's leading manufacturers of creatively educational play materials for children. The company is committed to the development of children's creative and imaginative abilities, and its employees are guided by the motto adopted in the 1930s by founder Ole Kirk Christiansen: "Only the best is good enough." Visit the virtual LEGO world at www.LEGO.com.
New LEGO® Star Wars™ Building Sets Inspired by Upcoming Star Wars Rebels™ Television Series Land on August 1
-New sets coincide with the 15th anniversary of The LEGO Group and Lucasfilm Collaboration-
NEW YORK, Feb. 17, 2014 -- AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL TOY FAIR – LEGO Systems, Inc. today announced new LEGO® Star Wars™ products based on the new Star Wars Rebels™ animated television series scheduled to premiere on Disney Channel this fall before it appears regularly on Disney XD. The action-filled series will introduce a cast of exciting new characters in the Star Wars universe. The new building sets were unveiled at a Disney Consumer Products event Monday, February 17 by Freddie Prinze, Jr., who stars as "Kanan Jarrus" in the new Star Wars Rebels series. The company presented him with a custom 2-foot tall replica of his minifigure made completely out of LEGO bricks by Master Builders.
LEGO Star Wars Rebels Building Sets Launch August 1
LEGO Star Wars The Ghost building set is based off of the Rebel heroes' starship, The Ghost, which has dual cockpits, a 360-degree rotating turret, two spring-loaded shooters and ejecting escape pods. The building set features 929 pieces and several new LEGO minifigures with assorted tools including Ezra Bridger, Kanan Jarrus, Hera Syndulla, Zeb and a Stormtrooper. Designed for ages 9 and up, the kit retails for $89.99.
The second building set, LEGO Star Wars Phantom, is an attack shuttle that works in conjunction with The Ghost set. The two models can be combined and the Phantom model features 234 pieces and includes folding wings, tools and a detachable cockpit with cargo hold where pilot Ezra Bridger can store his cadet helmet and blaster. Ezra Bridger and his grumpy Droid companion Chopper are also brought to LEGO minifigure form. The set is designed for ages 7 and up and will retail for $24.99.
The LEGO Group and Lucasfilm Celebrate 15 Great Years Together
The introduction of LEGO Star Wars Rebels coincides with the 15th anniversary of the LEGO Star Wars collection, the first licensed property ever to come to life in LEGO form. The LEGO Group and Lucasfilm collaboration has produced a wide variety of iconic construction sets since the first toys were released in 1999. Through the years, the LEGO Star Wars toy co-brand has offered more than 400 unique building sets from the original trilogy and newer storylines.
The two LEGO Star Wars Rebels models join 23 other new LEGO Star Wars building sets that will be introduced throughout the anniversary year, including such icons as the Snowspeeder and the Imperial Star Destroyer. A new collection of Microfighters builds mini versions of Star Wars icons and each includes a collectible minifigure.
Interesting Facts about LEGO Star Wars
"The 1999 introduction of the LEGO Star Wars collection marked the first time we collaborated with a studio to bring someone else's stories and characters to life, and our co-produced line of toys constitutes some of our best-selling and most beloved products around the world," said Jill Wilfert, vice president of licensing and entertainment for The LEGO Group. "We are thrilled to be celebrating the 15th year of our successful relationship with Lucasfilm and we look forward to continuing to deliver a creative LEGO building experience for Star Wars fans of all ages for years to come."
About the LEGO Group
The LEGO Group is a privately held, family-owned company, based in Billund, Denmark. It was founded in 1932 and today the group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of play materials for children, employing approximately 9,000 people globally. The LEGO Group is committed to the development of children's creative and imaginative abilities. LEGO products can be purchased in more than 130 countries.
LEGO, its logo, the brick & knob configuration and the Minifigure are trademarks of The LEGO Group. ©2014 The LEGO Group.
STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.
LEGO Systems Continues U.S. Momentum Brick by Brick
-Demand for the brand remained strong in 2013; prospects for year ahead are promising-
NEW YORK, Feb. 16, 2014 -- AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL TOY FAIR -- LEGO Systems, Inc., the North American division of the world's leading construction toy brand, outpaced the U.S. toy industry to build consumer sales growth for the ninth consecutive year. Besting its record performance in 2012, the company maintained its overall U.S. toy market share despite tremendous competitive pressure on toys.
2013 U.S. Year-End Highlights (Source: The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service)
The company's growth rate and consumer sales volume in the U.S. were higher when considering the full retail landscape and its own retail channels, which are not represented by NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service data. As a privately-held company, LEGO Systems does not disclose internal market performance data.
"Our U.S. sales growth last year was more moderate than the supernatural increases we recorded over the last eight years, so we are thrilled to have ended a year of increased competitive pressure on toys in a positive position while also equalizing our recent growth trend to a more sustainable level," said Soren Torp Laursen, president, LEGO Systems. "In the year ahead we will balance our core business of open-ended, themed and licensed building sets with innovative expressions of LEGO play to invite more children into the brand and keep them building for longer."
Strong and Balanced Product Portfolio Drove Growth
LEGO CITY, LEGO Star Wars™, LEGO Friends, LEGO Legends of Chima and LEGO Ninjago ranked among the top five LEGO properties of the year, accounting for 43% of all Building Sets sold in the U.S. in 2013(1). LEGO Friends continued to be a growth driver for the company in expanding its active user base in the U.S., with year-end sales +20% higher than 2012(2). A broad and versatile LEGO DUPLO® collection recruited new builders to the brand to grow the company's position with this age segment by +30%(3). Sales of LEGO CREATOR™ 3-in-1 models increased +12%(4), signaling continued demand for classic LEGO building sets.
First-Ever Feature Film Kickstarts 2014 Momentum
The February 7 premiere of the brand's first feature film, "The LEGO Movie," smashed box office predictions and is currently America's number-one movie. A collection of 17 building sets and a series of collectible LEGO Minifigures inspired by the film offer the ability to recreate scenes from the movie.
"It's an exciting time for the brand, seeing ourselves for the first time on the silver screen, and the positive reception the movie has had among children and families is both incredibly rewarding and humbling," Laursen continued. "We're thrilled that the film has become an anthem for building, inspiring families with its positive messages of creativity, imagination and individualism."
The Year Ahead
To sustain sales growth in the U.S., LEGO Systems will introduce nearly 300 new building sets at the American International Toy Fair this week in New York City. Among the company's innovative introductions is LEGO Juniors, which fills a specific need to serve 4 year-olds who are transitioning from DUPLO play to LEGO building. LEGO Mixels, a collectible mini character building system inspired by a multi-platform property co-developed with Cartoon Network, features animated shorts and a rich app gaming experience launching in March. A collection of LEGO Minecraft Creative Adventure sets takes the digital creativity of one of the world's most popular games and creates a physical experience through building for older children.
"Competition for children's attention is stronger than ever these days, but we continue to see bright spots for toy demand if we deliver the right combination of challenging yet rewarding fun, relevance and long-term play value. Our 2014 collection provides an immersive and irresistible LEGO experience for children of all ages, interests and building ability to drive sustained growth in the U.S.," Laursen said.
Note: The NPD Group US Toys Retail Tracking (POS) data is an un-projected national service, covering 80% of toy retailers in its panel. It does not include manufacturers' direct sales, and is for directional purposes.
About LEGO Systems, Inc.
LEGO Systems, Inc. is the North American division of The LEGO Group, a privately-held, family-owned company based in Billund, Denmark, one of the world's leading manufacturers of creatively educational play materials for children. The company is committed to the development of children's creative and imaginative abilities, and its employees are guided by the motto adopted in the 1930s by founder Ole Kirk Christiansen: "Only the best is good enough." Visit the virtual LEGO world at www.LEGO.com
LEGO, DUPLO, Legends of CHIMA and their logos are trademarks of The LEGO Group. © 2014 The LEGO Group.
THE LEGO MOVIE © The LEGO Group & Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
CARTOON NETWORK and the logo are trademarks of and © Cartoon Network.
© Notch Development AB and Mojang AB.
MINECRAFT is a trade mark of Notch Development AB.
MOJANG is a trade mark of Mojang AB.
1 The NPD Group / US Toys Retail Tracking (POS) Service
2 The NPD Group / US Toys Retail Tracking (POS) Service
3 The NPD Group / US Toys Retail Tracking (POS) Service
4 The NPD Group / US Toys Retail Tracking (POS) Service