NEW YORK, Feb 17 — Dinosaurs are taking over the world. Or this year’s Toy Fair. Toy makers, like Mattel, are prepping for the June premiere of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.
Mattel president Richard Dickson says “It’s going to be an incredible movie, and we’ve got some of the most realistic dinosaurs, technology infusion. They’re so cool and exciting.”
Mattel is also showcasing new Hot Wheels, Mecard transformation cars, and, of course, Barbie.
Rival Hasbro is also putting its best on display. Look at these Nerf games. This adorable Chewbacca. And Baby Alive.
Hasbro’s president John Frascotti says it’s all about play nad learn. “The value of active play continues to rise to the top.
And, so, it’s the reason we see brands, like Nerf and Play-Doh, doing so well, and Baby Alive.
These are brands that allow children to play in a very active and creative way. And that continues to resonate with today’s kids and with today’s parents.”
Toy industry analyst Jim Silver pints out trends. “Obviously, the number one trend is innovation, not necessarily with technology. The second one is collectible. The whole collectible category for girls and boys is booming.
“And the other thing that’s important every year is movies whether be it the new Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom movie, whether it be the Incredibles whether it be the Avengers movies big driver of toys.”
Every year thousands of toy makers attend Toy Fair hoping for new business connections to access more of US US$26 billion toy market. It’s important for Mattel.
The company reported a surprise loss for the holiday quarter. Its stock dropped.
But Mattel snubbed a takeover offer from Hasbro. Hasbro, on the other hand, reported a huge profit beat. It’s expected to do well from a line-up of toys linked to Marvel’s movies. — Reuters
