Winners of the 12th Annual New Products Showcase Awards Recognized at Global Pet Expo 2022

The American Pet Products Association (APPA) and Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA) have announced the winners of their 12th Annual New Products Showcase Awards during Global Pet Expo 2022. The Best in Show, second and third place awards were presented across nine categories: Aquatic, Bird, Boutique, Cat, Dog, Natural, Reptile, Point of Purchase and Small Animal. The awards are selected based on the voting results of international and domestic buyers attending the pet industry’s premier annual event.

NFT Collective ‘World of Women’ Names Jazwares Master Toy Partner

Jazwares, a global leader in toys and licensing, announced a multi-year, global master toy and collectible licensing agreement with World of Women (WoW), a non-fungible token (NFT) collective celebrating inclusivity and diversity through more than 10,000 pieces of digital art across its platform. Set to hit traditional and online retailers in 2023, Jazwares will have exclusive rights to design, manufacture, and market dolls, figures, doll accessories, plush, vehicle playsets, role play, costumes, and accessories inspired by the expansive WoW NFT universe.

American Pet Products Association (APPA) Releases Generational Report

The American Pet Products Association (APPA) – the leading trade association serving the interests of the pet products industry since 1958 – has released Volume 4 of its Generational Report. The report looks at how Millennials, the largest segment of pet owners at 32%, differ from previous generations of pet owners and takes a deep dive into the newest Gen Z pet owners.

Leading Bubble Manufacturer Little Kids Inc. Launches Föm Mania Brand!

The backyards of America are about to get a lot more awesome thanks to Föm Mania, the latest innovation from Little Kids Inc., the number one bubble manufacturer in the U.S. In addition to the mom-favorite brand Fubbles, the company’s lineup of award-winning bubble, sports, novelty and activity toys will now include two products under the Föm Mania brand, inviting kids and families into a new world of active outdoor play possibilities. The Föm Mania lineup promises everything from light, fluffy foam mountains offering endless play possibilities to foam-filled battles unlike anything kids have experienced before,

Motul and Sunrich Announce Agreement for Scale Model Cars

Major lifestyle and motoring brand Motul has announced a partnership with Sunrich Toys & Hobby, which designs and manufactures the highest-quality scale model cars for the global hobby market. Sunrich will produce and distribute a special range of model cars featuring the classic red and white Motul livery. The deal was brokered by WildBrain CPLG, Motul’s global licensing agent (excluding APAC).

Skydance Animation Inks Multi-Year, Multi-Film Agreement with Spin Master

Skydance Animation has announced a multi-year agreement with leading global children’s entertainment company Spin Master, to become the studio’s master toy licensee. The first feature property included under the pact is Apple Original Film Spellbound, directed by Vicky Jenson, which will debut globally on Apple TV+. Spin Master will bring characters from the show to life with products including fashion dolls, mini-dolls and vehicles. The agreement also gives Spin Master the rights to develop toy lines for other upcoming Skydance animated features.

Rafael Baltodano joins ZAG as Vice President, NA Retail Development

Award-winning global independent animation studio ZAG announced today the appointment of Rafael Baltodano, formerly with The Walt Disney Company, as Vice President, North America Retail Development. The announcement was made by Julian Zag, EVP Global Operations and Head of Consumer Products.

JAKKS Pacific Announces Spring Line-Up at Retail

JAKKS Pacific, Inc, a leading toy and consumer products manufacturer, has announced new Spring 2022 additions to its line of outdoor toys with cool new updated graphics coming to retail stores and online. A brand new trampoline has been added to the line up for $159.99 along with new additions of patio chairs, Fly Wheels, pop-up tents, music mats and many other specialty items in prices ranging from $9.99 to $59.99. For these price points, there is something every family can add for outdoor fun.

Osmo From BYJU’s Names Shawn Smith as Its First Global Head of Communications

Award-winning STEAM brand, Osmo from BYJU’S, announced that former WarnerMedia executive Shawn Smith is joining its leadership team as its first-ever Global Head of Communications, effective immediately. Smith brings her extensive experiences leading multimillion dollar campaigns for global entertainment brands and franchises to the newly-created role. She will lead Osmo’s communications strategy and narrative messaging across all aspects of its business, including corporate communications and brand publicity campaigns.