Toys “R” Us, Inc., today announced the appointment of Neil Friedman as president, Toys “R” Us, U.S. In his new position at Toys “R ”Us, Friedman will oversee all merchandising, marketing, store operations, merchandise presentation, global sourcing, and product development, as well as merchandise planning and allocation for the company’s 866 stores and online business in the United States. Friedman will report to Gerald L. Storch, chairman and CEO, Toys “R” Us, Inc.
“We could not be more pleased that Neil is joining our leadership team,” said Storch, in a prepared statement. “He is truly an industry icon. Neil has extensive knowledge of, and has made significant contributions to, the toy and juvenile product businesses. We look forward to working with Neil to further our growth strategy as we continue to advance our authority and specialist positions through our many initiatives ahead.”
“Toys ‘R’ Us is one of the most beloved retail brands in the world, and I am excited by this opportunity to build on its unique strengths,” said Friedman. “I can’t wait to get started with the Toys ‘R’ Us team.”
Friedman most recently served as president of Mattel Brands. He was named to the Toy Industry Hall of Fame in 2004 and was inducted into the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association’s Hall of Fame in 2007.