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PLAYMONSTER APPOINTS AMY GRACZYK AS CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER

Hr Person 01

Company expands focus on globally structured growth initiatives

BELOIT, Wis. (July 6, 2022) – PlayMonster is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Graczyk to the new role of Chief People Officer. A cross-functionally talented leader with global expertise across multiple industries, Graczyk brings a specialized focus on supporting organizations and high-performance teams amidst transformational growth.

In her role, she will oversee setting and implementing strategic HR direction in people, culture, organizational structure, diversity, and inclusion across teams globally.

Graczyk brings over 25 years of experience in leading and advising organizations on talent development, culture, employee engagement, change management, technology implementation, as well as developing and delivering human capital HR strategies and solutions.  She most recently served as Chief People Officer with Vericity Inc., the parent company for Fidelity Life & eFinancial and previously spent fifteen years successfully leading organizational development at Kraft Foods.

“Joining Play Monster presents such an exciting opportunity with a global future: one to help further shape the company’s culture, where joy is reflected not only in its products – but in the work environment, too.” says Graczyk. “My passion is working with teams collaboratively to help drive results, and what’s happening at PlayMonster is incredibly dynamic and exciting to be part of.”

Tim Kilpin, Chief Executive Officer at PlayMonster says: “As we continue to grow PlayMonster as a fast-paced and globally structured organization, people, talent, and organizational excellence remain a top priority, with employees being our most valuable asset.  Amy brings tremendous value in her leadership approach, and we are delighted to welcome her to the team.”

For more information, please visit www.playmonster.com.

 

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games, and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Allison Yakeley
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
ayakeley@beaconmediagrp.com

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PLAYMONSTER DEBUTS NEW CRAFT-TASTIC NATURE SERIES FOR SUMMER EXPLORATION

Nature Line

Nature and Crafting Unite with these Imaginative New Crafting Projects

 

BELOIT, Wis. (June 22, 2022) — PlayMonster embraces outdoor exploration and crafting in 2022 with the new Craft-tastic® Nature line. Families can embark on immersive craft experiences using simple crafting prompts and natural ingredients along with the supplied materials to reveal magical projects that can be displayed at home. The collection includes eight unique crafting projects, for families and kids ages 4 and up. This line launches exclusively at Michaels stores across the US and on Michaels.com. These include:

Craft-tastic – Scavenger Hunt Potions | $19.99 each | Ages 4+ (with help) 

Search outside and gather the ingredients listed on each page of the Scavenger Potions Book to make 7 unique potions with magical abilities! Go on a scavenger hunt for ingredients, discover magic outside, then display your finished creations on the magical leaf stand!

 

Craft-tastic – Nature Lantern | $19.99  each | Ages 8+

Kids can enjoy the Nature Lantern activity all year round! Bring nature indoors, using your own pressed leaves and flowers along with the fun decor included in the kit to make a beautiful piece for your space. Add a tea-light to illuminate the pretty colors and silhouettes for a magical nature glow!

 

Craft-tastic – Scavenger Hunt Journal | $19.99  each | Ages 6+

This journal is packed with hours of screen-free fun! Each page has a fun outdoor activity or scavenger hunt for you to sticker, color or do — be creative! Adopt a tree, earn badges, play games, learn new things and more! Search for things outside then personalize each page with the little treasures you find, right in your backyard!

Craft-tastic – Nature Inspired Accessories| $19.99  each | Ages 6+

Make pretty creations from nature and add natural elements to your style with found objects right from your backyard! Wear or share! A perfect gift for nature-lovers, this kit includes everything you need to create your own jewelry.

 

Craft-tastic – Enchanted Garden| $19.99  each | Ages 4+ (with help)

Create your own magical world filled with enchanting details! This plant and play Enchanted Garden is filled with everything you need for a nature-inspired magical experience. Just add water and watch your magical plants grow, plus add a sand playground for your enchanted animal friends to play in! The fun doesn’t stop there! Take it outside for more adventure or keep it indoors for continuous play.

 

Craft-tastic – Dino Garden| $19.99 each | Ages 4+ (with help)

Play with your dinos in the tall grass you grow yourself! Dig out fossils from the prehistoric sand pit. The fun doesn’t stop there! Take it outside for more adventure or keep it indoors for continuous play. This kit inspires creativity and imaginative play while learning a new skill.

 

Craft-tastic – Make a Butterfly House | $19.99 each | Ages 4+ (with help)

All the butterflies will be talking about this fun and functional Butterfly House! Simply attach the wooden panels together to create this cute shelter for your new friends. Place found leaves, sticks and flowers around the house to attract pretty butterflies. Decorate with leaves and flowers you find using the plastic needle and jute. Stick the printed acetate butterflies to the house or thread them onto your house.

 

Craft-tastic – Make a Bug Hotel | $19.99 each | Ages 4+ (with help)

Discover a fun and educational way to learn about bugs! This super cute Bug Hotel gives bugs and insects a place to rest and nest! Easily snap the wooden panels together and personalize it with fun water-proof hotel themed stickers. Fill it with leaves, stickers, flowers, and other found objects from nature. Attract a wide variety of little friends then learn about them in your identification guide booklet. Insects are an incredibly important part of our ecosystem — why not invite them in to stay?

 

For more information, please visit www.playmonster.com.

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh® and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster LLC
(800) 524-4263 x275
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Allison Yakeley
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
ayakeley@beaconmediagrp.com

 

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PLAYMONSTER’S DARBY ZAHRADNIK JOINS AMERICAN SPECIALTY TOY RETAILING ASSOCIATION (ASTRA) BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Darby

New member of ASTRA’s Board of Directors looks forward to the “new normal” of the toy industry

BELOIT, Wis. (June 3, 2022) – PlayMonster is proud to announce Darby Zahradnik’s appointment to the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association’s (ASTRA) Board of Directors. This appointment supports the company’s continued commitment to serve specialty toy retailers in North America. Zahradnik will serve on the Board of Directors for a three year term, serving through 2025.

In her current role as Director of National Accounts at PlayMonster, Zahradnik oversees the specialty business. With time spent in corporate merchandising (Zales, Michaels), retail store management (Kohl’s, Sweet & Sassy), and as an independent sales representative (McManemin Companies), Zahradnik found her ideal role on the manufacturing side when she joined Ann Williams Group in 2014. After PlayMonster’s acquisition of Ann Williams Group in June of 2021, Zahradnik expanded her portfolio to include all PlayMonster brands, including PlayMonster’s classic play toys and games, including Koosh®, Spirograph®, Playskool® Little Wonders™, Latchkits®, Disney Trivia, and Five Crowns® in addition to Craft-tastic® and Loopdedoo®.

“It’s a pleasure to be in the company of outstanding leaders in the specialty toy business and to have the opportunity to give back to the industry that has provided me so much through the years,” says Zahradnik. “As the toy industry emerges from the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, our industry has adapted and evolved into a ‘new normal.’ We’re in a time of tremendous change, and I look forward to playing my part in this transition.”

As a Board Member, Zahradnik will work alongside other industry leaders in making key decisions that address the organization’s mission, strategy and goals.

Scott Flynn, Chief Commercial Officer at PlayMonster says: “Congratulations to Darby on this next step in her career. Darby’s experience and expertise in this critical channel of business will add tremendous value to the ASTRA Board of Directors, and further reinforces PlayMonster’s commitment and support to the specialty toy business.

For more information, please visit www.playmonster.com.

 

 About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Sierra Percy-Beauregard
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
spercy-beauregard@beaconmediagrp.com

416.659.5807

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PLAYMONSTER CELEBRATES THE LEGACY OF DISNEY WITH KEEPSAKE TRIVIA BOARD GAME IN 2022

Disney Trivia Game 2022

34 Game Pieces and 2,000 Questions Come Together to Create

The Magical World Of Disney Trivia Game!

BELOIT, Wis. (May 26, 2022) — PlayMonster and Disney have collaborated to release The Magical World Of Disney Trivia game in 2022. Fans of all ages can go on an adventure through time, with 2,000 trivia questions spanning nearly 100 years of Disney history, from the very first Walt Disney production to the Disney and Pixar titles of today.

This high-quality collector’s board game makes the perfect gift or unboxing experience, with a premium black-on-black box with a matte finish. The inner lid features authentic original Disney and Pixar animation sketches together for the first time in any game, and the 3D game board reveals eye-catching, original artwork from the Disney archives. Golden game pawns are scaled representations of fan-favorite characters, hand-sculpted by master craftsmen, and five detailed, iconic story scenes that serve as destinations that players can travel to in order to complete their journey through time.

The Magical World Of Disney Trivia game is a perfect intergenerational experience, with two levels of play to ensure fun for kids and adults, ages 6 and up. Beyond the game itself, families can rediscover the joy of time together and celebrate their love for the vast catalog of Disney and Pixar movies and characters. The perfect addition to family game night or any Disney fan’s collection, The Magical World Of Disney Trivia Game is created for ages 6 & up and will retail for $34.99 USD.

For more information, visit PlayMonster.com.

 

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Sierra Percy-Beauregard
ChizComm (on behalf of PlayMonster)
Spercy-beauregard@chizcomm.com
416.659.5807

 

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PLAYMONSTER PARTNERS WITH VIACOMCBS TO LAUNCH NEW ADULT GAME IN 2022: CRIMINAL MINDS™ UNKNOWN SUBJECT

Microsoftteams Image 53

Fans of the Popular TV Show can Race to Catch a Killer in this Fast-Paced Social Deduction Game

 

 

BELOIT, Wis. (May 23, 2022) – Fans of the popular drama TV show, Criminal Minds, can celebrate in 2022 as PlayMonster has entered into a strategic licensing agreement with ViacomCBS to launch Criminal Minds UNknown SUBject. Featuring characters and nail-biting crime-solving from the popular TV show, this social deduction, interactive party game challenges players to think like a criminal to catch the killer among them. Play as your favorite FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit agents to build a profile and catch the Unsub, or play as an Unsub and hide your crimes and escape the authorities. You can say anything you like, but will the others believe you? Table talk and collaboration is highly encouraged.

Criminal Minds has been entertaining fans for nearly two decades and fuels the passion of armchair detectives. This fast-paced social deduction game fuses the trend of true crime with one of the most popular shows in North America.

The perfect addition to any game night, Criminal Minds UNknown SUBject is a different game each time it’s played, with 8 character cards, 81 action cards, 12 special authorization tiles and a game board. This game is suggested for groups ages 14+ with an MSRP of $19.99. For more information visit Playmonster.com.

 

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh® and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

About ViacomCBS

ViacomCBS Inc. (NASDAQ: VIAC; VIACA) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates premium content and experiences for audiences worldwide. Driven by iconic consumer brands, its portfolio includes CBS, SHOWTIME, Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, BET, Paramount+ and Pluto TV, among others. The company delivers the largest share of the television audience in the United States and one of the industry’s most extensive libraries of television and film titles. In addition to offering innovative streaming services and digital video products, ViacomCBS provides powerful capabilities in production, distribution and advertising solutions. For more information about ViacomCBS, please visit www.viacomcbs.com and follow @ViacomCBS on social platforms.

 

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For More Information, Please Contact:                                              

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster LLC
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

 

Sierra Percy-Beauregard
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
spercy-beauregard@beaconmediagrp.com

 

To learn more about PlayMonster, visit playmonster.com

 

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PLAYMONSTER EXPANDS LATCHKITS® CRAFT LINE WITH NEW EASY-TO-LOOP YARNIMALS™

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All-New Craft Activity Lets Kids Create their Own Cuddly Plush Pal!


BELOIT, Wis.
(April 26, 2022)Latchkits®, PlayMonster’s popular DIY crafting brand, releases Latchkits® Yarnimals™ craft kits which teaches kids how to make their own adorable 3D plush. Kids can proudly create their own Latchkits Koala, Panda, or Penguin, and discover hours of cuddly fun when they’re done creating. 

From the brand that brought families Latchkits rugs, kids looking to make their own plush BFF can do so with new Yarnimals all-in-one DIY kits. Families can discover the satisfying motions of a new craft activity as they hook, loop, and pull to create a plush Koala, Panda, or Penguin.  The Yarnimals 3D mesh form has easy-to-follow raised areas that show where to place each yarn color to make the perfect plush. It’s easy to learn, with no sewing or measuring required. Plus, there’s a special mesh heart to loop and place inside your Yarnimal to fill it with love! Collect and create all three! 

“As children are introduced to the world of arts and crafts, it’s important to keep activities and learning opportunities rewarding,” says Wendy Hartling, Director of Activity Toys at PlayMonster. “One of our goals with Latchkits Yarnimals was to create a simple yet engaging product that was accessible for young children to try, and feel accomplished after seeing their very own plush come together.”

New Latchkits Yarnimals retails for $19.99, for kids ages 8 and up. Each set comes with its own animal form, premium yarn, looping tool, snap-in eyes, instruction guide, and a bonus heart charm for families and kids to create their own plush pal. 

 

For more information, visit PlayMonster.com

 

About PlayMonster 

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

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For More Information, Please Contact: 

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Sierra Percy-Beauregard
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
spercy-beauregard@beaconmediagrp.com
416.659.5807 

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SPIROGRAPH® REVEALS SIX ART CONTEST WINNERS TO DISPLAY AT THE STRONG NATIONAL MUSEUM OF PLAY ON WORLD ART DAY

Museum

The Timeless Brand Celebrates 57 Years of Creations at The Strong Break Week from April 15-24

 

 

BELOIT, Wis. (April 13, 2022) — The highly anticipated Spirograph® National Art Contest comes to an exciting conclusion as artwork submissions by six rising artists have been selected to display at The Strong National Museum of Play on World Art Day! In recognition of their pieces, each artist will also receive an exclusive Spirograph® Retrospective Prize Pack and a $400 Michaels Gift Card to keep creating!

Throughout the month of March, passionate art enthusiasts from across the US submitted their unique creations to the Spirograph® National Art Contest. Today, six awe-inspiring submissions have been chosen to be displayed at The Strong National Museum of Play, during a Spriograph® activation and exhibit running throughout April Break Week (April 15-24). Visitors will have a chance to make their own Spirograph® creation with a communal design experience, on site, and a Spirograph® retrospective that showcases Spirograph® products throughout the ages.

Congratulations to the Spirograph® National Art Contest Winners:

  1. Abby, Massachusetts, Category 5-7
  2. Myles, Pennsylvania, Category 5-7
  3. Audrey, New York, Category 8-12
  4. Bella, Texas, Category 8-12
  5. Gale, California, Category 13+
  6. Jules, New York, Category 13+

 

Special honorary mention goes out to @spirographgirl from the UK.

“There’s an artist in everybody, and seeing all of these kids and their families celebrate Spirograph® by showing us how they create and bring joy to their artworks is an incredible gift in itself,” says Wendy Hartling, Director of Activity Toys at PlayMonster. “We hope everyone who has joined us for this event continues to be inspired and show their artist side with the spinning gears of Spirograph!!”

Stay tuned for more Spirograph® reveals for 2022! For more information about PlayMonster, visit www.playmonster.com.

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh® and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

About The Strong

The Strong is a highly interactive, collections-based museum devoted to the history and exploration of play. It is one of the largest history museums in the United States and one of the leading museums serving families. The Strong houses the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of historical materials related to play and is home to the International Center for the History of Electronic Games, the National Toy Hall of Fame, the World Video Game Hall of Fame, the Brian Sutton-Smith Library and Archives of Play, the Woodbury School and the American Journal of Play. Together, these enable a multifaceted array of research, exhibition and other interpretive and educational activities that serve a diverse audience of adults, families, children, students, teachers, scholars, collectors and others around the globe.

 

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster LLC
(800) 524-4263 x275
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Sierra Percy-Beauregard
Beacon Communications (on behalf of PlayMonster)
416.659.5807
spercy-beauregard@beaconmediagrp.com

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PLAYMONSTER WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR OF INVENTOR RELATIONS

Lauble

Industry Veteran Dianne Lauble Grows PlayMonster’s Commitment to the Inventor Community

BELOIT, Wis. (April 1, 2022) — PlayMonster Group LLC is pleased to announce the appointment of Dianne Lauble to the role of Director, Inventor Relations, effective immediately.

Lauble will expand the company’s growing relationships with the inventor community, while working to develop the company’s leadership and innovation with the next wave of inventors, creators, and designers in the toy, activity/craft and games industry.

As a seasoned creative with over 35 years of experience in the toy industry, Lauble brings a rich history of toy invention and design, as well as directing global brands. As the new Director of Inventor Relations, Lauble’s collection of experiences bring forward an in-depth understanding and business acumen that exemplifies the creative spirit of the inventor community.

“Dianne has a true eye for innovation and design that encapsulates the entrepreneurial passion of the inventors we connect with,” said Gary Aigner, Chief Product Development Officer at PlayMonser.  “Her tenure in the inventor community makes her an exciting partner as we grow our presence and innovation on an international scale.”

Throughout her multidimensional career, Lauble brought hundreds of toys to market, working alongside a notable variety of organizations within the industry, including: Hasbro, Mattel, SpinMaster, Tomy, Pressman, Infantino, Ohio Art, Parker Brothers, Fisher-Price, and most recently, McDonalds as a Creative Director of Happy Meal Toys. Dianne lives in downtown Chicago with her family.

PlayMonster continues to aggressively build its portfolio of brands and significantly scale the company’s growth and leadership position within the toy industry. To learn more about PlayMonster brands, visit www.playmonster.com and follow @playmonsterfun on social media.

 

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Sierra Percy-Beauregard
ChizComm (on behalf of PlayMonster)
Spercy-beauregard@chizcomm.com
416.659.5807

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PLAYMONSTER CONGRATULATES THEIR RISING STAR SAKITA WITHERS FOR WINNING A 2022 WOMEN IN TOYS WONDER WOMAN AWARD

Sakita Withers

PlayMonster’s Sakita Withers Wins Big at the Women in Toys 30th Anniversary Awards

BELOIT, Wis. (March 2, 2022) – PlayMonster is proud to announce that Sakita Withers has won a 2022 Wonder Woman Award in the Rising Star, Marketing/PR category. This is  one of the most prestigious awards for women in the toy industry, and PlayMonster could not be more proud to have one of their own recognized in this way!

The Wonder Women Awards is an annual event held by the Women in Toys (WiT) Licensing and Entertainment organization that recognizes and honors remarkable leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers for their outstanding contributions in the toy, licensing and entertainment industries.

Award winner Sakita Withers is a Brand Manager at PlayMonster, and has been with the company for two years. Sakita’s leadership has been instrumental in the successful launch of Snap Ships, Koosh, and BriteBrush brands, and now the much-anticipated relaunch of the beloved Playskool line. Under Sakita, Snap Ships built an engaged and loyal fanbase by leveraging content and the expansive product line. Her background in toys (Manager, Global Brand Development and Marketing—Hasbro My Little Pony) and infant products (Brand Manager—Evenflo) gave her the experience and perspective to efficiently and effectively lead a team of product developers, creative associates, content developers, marketers and more to make Snap Ships a success.

Sakita Withers, Brand Manager at PlayMonster, says: “To be awarded WiT’s Rising Star Award is an absolute honor. Women in the industry have come so far over the past 30 years, and it’s gratifying to see recognition for our hard work! I first fell in love with toys in my late grandmother’s playroom. From He-Man to Barbie, she encouraged discovery and play, and was truly a role model in all respects. This award was made possible thanks to her.”

Lisa Wuennemann, Vice President, Marketing at PlayMonster, says: “I’m proud of what Sakita has accomplished in a short time at PlayMonster.  She ensured that every aspect of the Snap Ships launch was consistent and impressive with a great-looking product with huge playability that appealed to boys, parents and collectors; launch events; and supporting YouTube content. This year she is applying the same strategic thinking and level of detail to PlayMonster’s launch of Playskool. She is just getting started!”

Women in Toys is a non-profit organization that champions and advocates for the advancement of women through leadership, networking and educational opportunities. WiT members open doors for one another and are eager to share what they’ve learned, and are dedicated to change in the industry. Through the critical resources and programming the organization provides, and the connections they help to forge, WiT creates limitless opportunities for women to thrive at all levels of their career.

For more information, please visit www.playmonster.com.

 

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh®, and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster Group LLC
(800) 524-4263
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Sierra Percy-Beauregard
ChizComm (on behalf of PlayMonster)
Spercy-beauregard@chizcomm.com
416.659.5807

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Calling All Artists! PlayMonster Unveils Spirograph® National Art Contest to Celebrate Young Creators and 57 Years of Iconic Spirograph® Designs

Spiro Contest

Winning Submissions will be displayed at The Strong National Museum of Play on World Art Day

 

BELOIT, Wis. (March 1, 2022) — Launching today, families across the US are invited to participate in the Spirograph® National Art Contest for the opportunity to have their Spirograph® art featured at The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York! Using the simple magic of pens, gears and paper, artists four and older are encouraged to create a unique design with any Spirograph® product and add their own personal flair with color or added materials.

WHO: Everyone four and older (Parents enter on behalf of kids!)

WHAT: Use any Spirograph® edition to create an original design!

WHEN: Enter between March 1-31, 2022

HOW:  Visit Playmonster.com/contest/ to learn how to upload a photo of your artwork!

Six winning designs will be chosen by a panel of judges to be displayed at The Strong National Museum of Play on World Art Day (April 15, 2022).  Winners will also take home an exclusive Spirograph® Retrospective Prize Pack and $400 Michael’s Gift Card to keep creating.

As part of the promotion, families are also invited to get their creative juices flowing by visiting Michael’s stores across the US for a free Spirograph® event. On Saturday, March 26, 2022 from 1:00-3:00 PM CST, families will be able to try out various Spirograph® products and take part in a demo to learn  Spirograph® tips and tricks. Visit Michaels.com to find a store near you.

Wendy Hartling, Director of Activity Toys at PlayMonster, says: “This household brand has delighted generations, including my own, because of its ability to make everyone feel like an artist. Whether you’re eight years old or an adult with kids of your own, Spirograph brings out the creator in all of us. We know how proud kids feel when their art is displayed at home or at school. We want to celebrate these budding artists and give them the opportunity to potentially have their art featured at a National Museum on World Art Day.”

First introduced in 1965, Spirograph® has made it possible for aspiring artists of all ages to make beautifully intricate designs. Originally developed as a drafting tool by a British mechanical engineer, the distinctive wheels and rings of Spriograph® cleverly combine the principles of art and mathematics in a way that has inspired generations. Always innovating, Spirograph® has earned industry acclaim and recognition through American Speciality Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA), Parents Magazine Best Toys Awards, and National Parenting Product Awards (NAPPA), among others. Stay tuned for more Spirograph® reveals for 2022!

For more information about PlayMonster, visit www.playmonster.com.

About PlayMonster

PlayMonster, a leading international toy and game company, believes in the power of play to make a positive difference in people’s lives and strives to keep play alive for all ages by delivering great play value through designing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative and fun toys, games and activities. PlayMonster’s diversified portfolio includes popular brands and products such as “TOTY Game of the Year” Yeti in My Spaghetti®, plus THINGS…®, 5 Second Rule®, Relative Insanity®, Farkle, Five Crowns®, Spirograph®, Colorforms, My Fairy Garden®, Fashion Plates®, Latchkits®, Snap Ships®, Koosh® and the recently acquired Ann Williams Group including Loopdedoo®, Craft-Tastic®, Craft Crush™ and Sticker & Chill™.

 

About Hasbro

Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to making the world a better place for all children, fans and families. Hasbro delivers immersive brand experiences for global audiences through consumer products, including toys and games; entertainment through eOne, its independent studio; and gaming, led by the team at Wizards of the Coast, an award-winning developer of tabletop and digital games best known for fantasy franchises MAGIC: THE GATHERING and DUNGEONS & DRAGONS. The company’s unparalleled portfolio of approximately 1,500 brands includes MAGIC: THE GATHERING, NERF, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, BABY ALIVE, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, POWER RANGERS, PEPPA PIG and PJ MASKS, as well as premier partner brands. For the past decade, Hasbro has been consistently recognized for its corporate citizenship, including being named one of the 100 Best Corporate Citizens by 3BL Media and one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute. Important business and brand updates are routinely shared on our Investor Relations website, Newsroom and social channels (@Hasbro on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.) © 2022 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 

About The Strong

The Strong is a highly interactive, collections-based museum devoted to the history and exploration of play. It is one of the largest history museums in the United States and one of the leading museums serving families. The Strong houses the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of historical materials related to play and is home to the International Center for the History of Electronic Games, the National Toy Hall of Fame, the World Video Game Hall of Fame, the Brian Sutton-Smith Library and Archives of Play, the Woodbury School and the American Journal of Play. Together, these enable a multifaceted array of research, exhibition and other interpretive and educational activities that serve a diverse audience of adults, families, children, students, teachers, scholars, collectors and others around the globe.

 

PURCHASE REQUIRED (EXCEPT ND AND MD). US/DC 16+ (Parents or legal guardians must enter if Under 16). Void where prohibited. Ends 3/31/22. Sponsor: PlayMonster LLC. See Official Rules at playmonster.com/contest.

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For More Information, Please Contact:

Lisa Wuennemann
PlayMonster LLC
(800) 524-4263 x275
lisa.wuennemann@playmonster.com

Sierra Percy-Beauregard
ChizComm (on behalf of PlayMonster)
416.659.5807
Spercy-beauregard@chizcomm.com