September 29, 2023 - Page 3 of 4

Award-Winning Toy Company World of EPI Reveals New Name – The Dr. Lisa Company

Dr. Lisa Williams, a pioneer and leader in manufacturing authentic multicultural dolls and a 2023 Toy of the Year Finalist for Champion of Diversity and Inclusion, announced the rebranding and structure of her company from World of EPI to The Dr. Lisa Company. The new name reflects the company’s strategic approach in continuing its mission with multicultural representation of dolls and accessories while expanding into baby and juvenile, animation, publishing, licensing, and more. “When I founded World of EPI 20 years ago my mission was to inspire children to see their beauty, brilliance, and power reflected back to them and to foster imagination during positive play,” Williams said. “Representation matters, and through this expansion, we are heightening our role in a multitude of areas where I know we can continue to make a difference. “And on a more personal level, our hope is that The Dr. Lisa Company inspires current and future entrepreneurs, as well as others to truly follow their dreams.”

5-Minute Crafts and Angry Birds Announce In-Game Collaboration and Global #AngryCraftsChallenge

Two globally recognized brands, 5-Minute Crafts and Angry Birds, are excited to announce a partnership that promises a unique experience for fans of both universes. Rovio Entertainment has integrated 5-Minute Crafts branded levels within Angry Birds Friends for a week-long special in-game event from September 25th to October 2nd. Millions of fans can dive into 5-Minute Crafts’ DIY charm within actual game levels and will encounter in-game prompts, guiding them to watch inspiring videos on YouTube. But the excitement extends beyond the virtual landscape. TheSoul and Rovio are initiating the #AngryCraftsChallenge, which encourages fans to create real-life Angry Birds levels using household items. As showcased in TheSoul’s kickoff video on YouTube Shorts, the challenge paves the way for fans to imagine, create, and share their unique game levels.

Fun in Motion Toys Licenses Nickelodeon Properties for Hit Shashibo Toys

Fun In Motion Toys, maker of the award-winning interactive toy sensation Shashibo, is thrilled to announce a new licensing partnership with Paramount Consumer Products to make products showcasing hit Nickelodeon franchises. The collaboration will introduce three exciting new series’ of Shashibo, featuring beloved characters from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Katy Perry Jumps Into the World of Global Phenomenon Peppa Pig for a 3-Part Special Celebrating 20th Anniversary

Hasbro has announced that global megastar, Katy Perry, will join the beloved Peppa Pig franchise as a guest voice star in an episode from the all-new, 3-part Peppa Pig Wedding Party Special that is set to premiere in Spring 2024. To celebrate the iconic animated character’s 20th anniversary next year, the episodes will have little ones and their families jumping into fun, imaginative and oinktastic adventures that real-life wedding parties bring to loved ones everywhere. All casting and filming for the Peppa Pig Wedding Party Special were contracted and completed before the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes and are compliant with SAG-AFTRA rules and conditions.

Kartoon Studios Names Brian Parisi New CFO

Following major developments over the past year, including brand and digital platform launches, a name change and transition to the NYSE (TOON), Kartoon Studios (the “Company” or “Kartoon Studios”) announced the appointment of finance veteran Brian Parisi as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer. Andy Heyward, Chairman and CEO of Kartoon Studios stated, “It is my privilege to welcome Brian to our high-caliber executive team. At this pivotal moment in Kartoon Studios’ evolution, Brian’s specialized skillset in financial management, coupled with his rich experience in the entertainment industry, could not be more timely or relevant.”

Jazwares Creates Exclusive Squishmallows as Special Gift for Make-A-Wish

Jazwares, a leading global toy company, announced that it has created an exclusive Squishmallows for Make-A-Wish as a special gift for children with critical illnesses, and their siblings. “Star,” a limited edition huggable blue bear adorned with silver and yellow stars, is described as a galaxy adventurer who stays optimistic and hopeful no matter what each daily mission brings. More than 10,000 “Star” Squishmallows will be donated to Make-A-Wish chapters across the United States and Canada beginning this fall. “Our hope is that ‘Star’ will make the Make-A-Wish journey even more meaningful for wish kids, and their siblings,” said Laura Zebersky, President of Jazwares and Board Chair of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. “‘Star’ is just like the thousands of Make-A-Wish families who remain optimistic and hopeful in the most challenging circumstances.”

Events News

Plus-Plus to Showcase Innovative Toy Line at New York Toy Fair 2023

Plus-Plus, the pioneering brand known for its open-ended, creative puzzle kits that set play free with one simple shape, prepares for the return to the toy industry’s biggest event: New York Toy Fair, which kicks off on September 30th. The brand’s unique and versatile building system empowers children and adults alike to unleash their creativity. Featuring a single, simple shape, Plus-Plus pieces can be interconnected in a multitude of ways to create an endless array of designs. The complete line-up, including Toy of the Year (TOTY) finalist Puzzle by Number Map of USA, will be on display at booth #6127.

ZAG Signs Global Licensing Deal with SAI Group’s KANDIZ for Child-Friendly Snacks for Miraculous

ZAG, a global independent animation studio, has teamed up with Turkey’s SAI Group, a renowned producer of licensed children’s snacks and confectionary products, ranking among the top 10 worldwide. The collaboration is set to create a diverse line of KANDIZ snacks, cereals, and candy for the highly successful global brand, Miraculous. The SAI Group collaboration announcement was conveyed by Carlotta Caracciolo, ZAG Vice President of Licensing & Retail for the Middle East, Turkey, Greece, Africa & India. The new innovative and appealing product lines are rolling out this fall, with select SKU’s available by the end of this year in the USA, Canada, Middle East, UK, Europe, Turkey, North Africa, CIS countries, LATAM, and Australia.

Jada Toys Expands Collaboration with Disney

Jada Toys, a leader in delivering innovation to the wheels category, has announced an expansion to their long-term collaboration with The Walt Disney Company. The forthcoming Disney Princess Remote Control Carriage combines Disney’s imaginative and dynamic storytelling with Jada Toys’ unmatched and detailed product creation resulting in a unique must-have toy for Disney fans of all ages. Joining the extensive list of over 20 product offerings in this collaboration, fans across the globe will soon be able to enjoy this dazzling Disney toy. Perfect for ages 3+, the highly-detailed Disney Princess Remote Control Carriage stands 12.5” tall and comes fully equipped with a variety of lights and sounds activated by the remote control accessory to create the ultimate entrance. The vehicle has full mobility and has room for two standard 11.5” fashion dolls, allowing Disney fans to take their favorite Disney Princess character dolls on a royal ride. The Disney Princess Remote Control Carriage launches this Fall 2023 in stores and online at Walmart ahead of the holiday season.