aNb Media, Author at aNb Media, Inc.

Toy Foundation Toy of the Year 2023 TOTY Turkey

The Toy Foundation Announces New Board with Appointments of Andy Quartin, Kathleen Campisano, and Others

The Toy Foundation (TTF) announced the appointment of Andy Quartin, CEO of Thames & Kosmos, LLC, as Chair of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees and Kathleen Campisano, global chief marketing officer & general manager of Beacon Media Group, as Vice Chair. Together, Quartin and Campisano will lead TTF in its new strategic action plan to unite the toy industry behind the shared commitment to create a world where every child has the opportunity to experience comfort, joy, and the extraordinary physical, emotional, and educational benefits of play.

Sesame Workshop Expands Efforts to Support Children of Ukraine with 1+1 Media Group and PLUSPLUS

Sesame Workshop announced that Elmo, Cookie Monster, and friends are coming to televisions across Ukraine through a new partnership with 1+1 media group and its broadcaster PLUSPLUS, the country’s leading animation channel for children and families. The 140 animated 5-minute video segments are designed to bring playful early learning to children, with particular attention to the unique needs and experiences of those affected by crises. These engaging and entertaining videos promote math, science, and social-emotional skills, as well as health and safety lessons—all tailored for children ages 3-8. In addition to being broadcast on PLUSPLUS beginning March 27, this new Sesame Street content will also be available for streaming on demand on the Kyivstar TV platform.

Events News

TTPM Announces Spring 2023 Most Wanted List

TTPM, the leader in video product reviews for toys, baby, and pet gear, is excited to announce their Spring 2023 Most Wanted List. The Spring list highlights toys they believe will be fan-favorites across three categories: Imaginative Play, Collectibles, and Creative Play. “Innovation in creative and imaginative toys are at an all-time high. We’re seeing an increase in on-screen characters coming off-screen and encouraging play in new ways,” said Jim Silver, CEO of TTPM. “Spring is the perfect time to put down the screens and play. This list will help guide parents and gift givers to find the toys that are right for their kids. It’s the ultimate spring shopping list for kids of all ages.”

Fanhome Launches Transformers Optimus Prime Build-Up Subscription for North America

Fanhome, the leader in subscription-based collections and models, under license from global branded entertainment leader Hasbro, brings the action-packed world of Transformers home to fans across North America this summer with the launch of the Transformers Optimus Prime subscription. This is the ultimate screen accurate replica of the iconic Autobot leader as he appeared in the 2007’s Transformers that kicked off the live action film franchise. Standing nearly 2 feet tall and composed of meticulously detailed metal and ABS plastic parts, Optimus Prime will be the centerpiece of a collection with features such as light-up effects and full articulation for maximum posability. A fresh shipment from Fanhome brings the Optimus Prime figure to life each month with components for a specific part of the build, along with step-by-step instructions and all the necessary tools for assembly. (Note: This Autobot figure does not transform.)

NBC Revs Up to Launch ‘Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge’

NBC gets the show on the road with a series order of Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge, an epic car makeover competition series based on one of the world’s most popular toys. Hosted by Rutledge Wood (“Top Gear US,” “Floor Is Lava”), who will also serve as one of the show’s judges, the 10-episode series will give Hot Wheels superfans the opportunity of a lifetime – turning a nostalgic car from their past into the life-sized Hot Wheels of their dreams. The season-finale winning creation will spin its wheels by launching as an official Hot Wheels die-cast car.

Playmates Toys reveals Figures Based on ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’

One of the biggest action figure phenomena of all-time returns this summer with a new look and new attitude for the new millennium. Following the world premiere of a teaser preview for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Playmates Toys has revealed a sampling of its Ninja Turtles action figures, vehicles, and role play toys based on the late summer 2023 film. Playmates Toys has the ultimate line of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures, vehicles, and iconic role play weapons based on the upcoming film. Toys will be available for purchase in stores and online on June 25.

Kingsmen Xperience and Good Vibrations Announce Strategic Partnership for Branded Attractions in North America

Kingsmen Creatives Limited (“Kingsmen”), a leading creator of experiences, announced that Kingsmen Xperience, Inc (“Kingsmen Xperience”), its United States location-based entertainment focused subsidiary, and Good Vibrations Holding Co, LLC (“Good Vibrations”), an operator of family oriented destination attractions headed by Robin Turner, one of the co-founders of the highly successful WonderWorks chain of tourism driven attractions, have formed a strategic partnership for branded location based entertainment in North America.

Star Wars Villainous Puzzles Ravensburger

Ravensburger Embraces the Dark Side with Star Wars Villainous Puzzles

The Star Wars galaxy has fallen to the dark side in a new line of Star Wars Villainous puzzles from Ravensburger. Inspired by the award-winning board game Star Wars (Power of the Dark Side) Villainous, these 1000-piece puzzles depict an alternate reality where heroes fall and the dark side of the Force wins. Five iconic villains are depicted completing their in-game objectives across the puzzle series, now available for purchase on Amazon.

Events News

ToyFest 2023 Gets a Full House, Packed Full of Retailers

ToyFest concluded its 10th tradeshow in Las Vegas, held at the World Market Center. Toy & Gift Stores from across the US attended the Las Vegas Show including stores from 48 states, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Cayman Islands, Guam, Korea, Mexico, Micronesia, Panama, Philippines, South America, the UK, and Venezuela. “What a week! ToyFest 2023 was filled with buyers from all over the country. The show had great energy and excitement, allowing everyone to enjoy all ToyFest had to offer. Resorts World was the perfect host hotel. Can’t wait for 2024, as we grow and continue to make ToyFest the best it can be for all.” said Sandy Lepire, ToyFest President.