By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Spin Master has selected Jonathan Roiter to serve as the company's new executive vice president and chief financial officer. "As we continue to execute against our vision to create magical play experiences for kids and families around the world, we are excited to welcome Jonathan to Spin Master," said Spin Master CEO, Max Rangel. "Jonathan … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Spin Master Appoints Jonathan Roiter to its Executive Team
News & Trends
Analysis: Brands Are Losing Customers. Here’s How to Win Them Back.
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief It's a tough time for brands who depend on their customers' steadfast loyalty to keep the revenue flowing. Two major trends have erupted over the past four years that are straining the relationship of trust and loyalty between brands and their followers. And both of those trends are coming to a head this year. One of them is a … [Read more...] about Analysis: Brands Are Losing Customers. Here’s How to Win Them Back.
Who’s News: RMS USA Appoints Two Executives to Senior Leadership Team
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter RMS USA has appointed Heather Wilson as its first chief brand officer and named John Tomulonis as its VP of licensing. With over two decades working in the toy industry, Heather Wilson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in engaging consumer attention and expanding brands. In her new role at RMS USA, she will focus on expanding the … [Read more...] about Who’s News: RMS USA Appoints Two Executives to Senior Leadership Team
The Brands and Categories Being Hit by ‘Liberation Day’ Tariffs
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Stock markets are in free fall globally, while top brands grapple with the fallout of new US trade tariffs announced by President Donald Trump on April 2. The tougher than expected tariffs are expected to impact on several sectors crucial to the global licensing industry, including the categories of toys, consumer electronics, … [Read more...] about The Brands and Categories Being Hit by ‘Liberation Day’ Tariffs
Who’s News: VIZ Media Announces Major Leadership Transition
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter VIZ Media has shifted Ken Sasaki to the role of chairman and executive advisor and Brad Woods to the role of president and CEO. Previously serving as the company's CEO, Sasaki led VIZ Media's expansion from a specialty publisher into one of the largest distributors of Japanese pop culture content in the West. Under his leadership, VIZ … [Read more...] about Who’s News: VIZ Media Announces Major Leadership Transition
Toy Foundation Welcomes Kathleen Campisano as Chair of Board of Trustees
TLL Staff The Toy Foundation has appointed Kathleen Campisano, global chief marketing officer and general manager of Beacon Media Group, as the new chair of its Board of Trustees. Taking the helm on February 28, Campisano will work alongside newly appointed Vice Chair Michael Keaton and the Foundation’s Executive Director Pam Mastrota to lead philanthropic initiatives that … [Read more...] about Toy Foundation Welcomes Kathleen Campisano as Chair of Board of Trustees
OECD Report: Tariff Trade Winds to Slow Global Economic Growth
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The global economy is in for a rough ride as US trade tariffs are expected to cause a widespread decline in GDP growth. The OECD (the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, representing the world's richest economies) headed their interim report in March with a photo of a ship being battered by heavy seas (above), a metaphor … [Read more...] about OECD Report: Tariff Trade Winds to Slow Global Economic Growth
Who’s News: The London Studio Appoints Jo Astles to Support Expansion Initiatives
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The London Studio has appointed Jo Astles as its new artist and licensing development manager to aid the company's ongoing expansion initiatives. Formerly serving as a licensing professional at the Bright Agency, Astles has developed a comprehensive skill set throughout her career that includes creative design, business management and … [Read more...] about Who’s News: The London Studio Appoints Jo Astles to Support Expansion Initiatives
San Diego Comic-Con Expands to Europe With Event in Málaga, Spain
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The hugely popular pop culture convention, San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC), is set to make its European debut in Málaga, Spain. This historic expansion marks the first time in over 50 years that the convention will be held outside the United States. The announcement was made on March 10, 2025, during a launch event at the Gran Hotel Miramar in … [Read more...] about San Diego Comic-Con Expands to Europe With Event in Málaga, Spain
Who’s News: Freddie Lindsell Pursues Science of Licensing at Bulldog
TLL Staff Bulldog Licensing has announced the appointment of Freddie Lindsell as its new Licensing Coordinator. Freddie’s responsibilities will include supporting the team as a whole across the contract process and product approvals. This post has been created to help manage portfolio growth along with the ongoing evolution of service demands for the award-winning … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Freddie Lindsell Pursues Science of Licensing at Bulldog