The toy industry lost a legend this week. Michael Kohner was a dear friend to many, a passionate advocate for inventors, a steadfast supporter of People of Play, and a familiar face at Toy Fair for more than 60 years. He never missed reading the Bloom Report, mentored countless people throughout the industry, and helped bring joy to generations through games including LOOPIN' LOUIE, MR. BUCKET, GIGGLE WIGGLE, DON’T PANIC, PENCIL NOSE, and MAGIC TOOTH FAIRY.   Michael came from a family of toy industry pioneers. His father, Paul, and uncle, Frank, helped shape the industry, and the Kohner family was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 TAGIE Awards.   We have created this tribute page where friends and colleagues can share memories and celebrate Michael’s remarkable life, legacy, and contributions to the world of play. Michael touched countless lives throughout our industry. While he will be deeply missed by many, I will especially miss his friendship, encouragement, and the love and generosity he brought to our community, as well as his memorable advice to “give with warm hands.”   This is a page where friends and colleagues can share memories and celebrate Michael’s remarkable life, legacy, and contributions to the world of play. If you have memory to share, let us know. The most recent tributes are at the end of this article.    Rest in Peace, Michael. ❤️   Mary   Tributes in Memory of Michael   The toy and game world has lost one of its most treasured figures, and I have lost a dear friend.   Michael Kohner's legacy stretched from his family's founding of Kohner Bros..."., through iconic products like Trouble and the Busy Box, to his own remarkable run with the Michael Kohner Corporation.    He was a gentleman in every sense, patient, fair, and ethical to his core. His word was his bond, and in a business built on relationships, he set the standard for how those relationships should be conducted.   The proof was in the longevity. Michael built decades-long partnerships with inventors and toy companies around the world. Perhaps nothing illustrated this better than his close collaboration with Longshore, which he helped grow into one of the most prominent toy and game manufacturers in the world.   Relationships like these do not endure for decades accidentally. Everyone who worked with Michael knew they were dealing with someone who not only had deep relationships throughout the industry, but who operated with the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and work ethic.   His generosity was legendary. For decades, during toy events such as POP's Inventor Pitch/Conference, Chicago Toy & Game Fair, and NY Toy Fair, he hosted unforgettable dinners at the finest steakhouses and delighted in taking friends and colleagues to Broadway shows. No evening with Michael was complete without his humor, the perfectly timed one-liner, and the pure Catskills comic energy that left the whole room laughing.    When he wasn’t holding court at a dinner table or closing a deal, you could often find him on a golf course, another arena where his competitive spirit, patience, and good humor were fully on display.   That spirit of joy and adventure never left him. In 2017, a small group of us were guests of Adi Golad in Israel. Michael rode a camel, blue cap on, both hands flashing a victory sign, grinning from ear to ear. It was pure Michael: game for anything, finding the fun in every moment, and making everyone around him smile simply by being himself.   He will be deeply missed.   - Bob Fuhrer, Nextoy         I was in the toy business for most of my adult life. About 50 years ago I met a man by chance who changed my life forever. He was royalty in the toy industry. His name was Michael Kohner. I was building my own toy company, Broadway Toys, alone and needed professional help.   His great family toy business Kohner Brothers was sold to General Foods in 1969 and Mike was looking for a change. He was a toy business veteran and i was a rookie. Very fortunately , he answered my search for help.   We had our very first meeting in a car in a New Jersey Kmart parking lot. After 30 minutes we shook hands and lucky me I acquired a professional expert to help me navigate the challenging toy industry.   In the last few days I have read many beautiful tributes that were sent to the Kohner family. Every single one of them said that Michael Kohner was one in a million. Everyone included accolades to his knowledge, his kindness, his humor, his trust, his friendship.    For many years Mike and I traveled together back and forth from Hong Kong around 40 times. He had his growing international game business meetings (Michael Kohner Corporation) and I focused on my Broadway Toys business with mostly American retailers , package designers, sales reps, agents and factories. It was as they say, a marriage made in heaven.   This tribute is just only one of countless ones of love, gratitude and friendship received by the Kohner family from many people from all over the world. He was simply beloved by so very many Kohner fans everywhere.    I will never ever forget experiences I had with the great Michael Kohner. His business savy and judgement were incredible. His humor was ultra professional. His friendship was priceless. Surely his countless business and personal friends who love him will never see the likes of a great man like Michael Kohner ever again. And that ladies and gentlemen is why everyone who reads the Fuhrer tributes will be extremely fortunate to have known and loved a man like the truly great Michael Kohner.   - Bob Gellman     Michael was my friend and agent for more than 40 years. During that time, we worked on and placed more than 150 games together. He was a special person to my entire family. My daughters thought of him as almost a third grandfather. We will all miss him tremendously!   - David Mair   I've known Mike for as long as I can remember. He was one of my father's closest friends, so growing up he felt more like an uncle than a family friend. My mother was friends with his wife, Elaine, and they'd all go out to dinner together. Other times, Mike would stop by the house with his former partner-in-crime, Bob Gelman, and they'd head out fishing on my father's boat.   When they came back, I'd be tasked with taking photos of them showing off their catches while Mike tried to slip me five dollars to use "trick photography" and make his fish look bigger than everyone else's.   Later, when I was studying at FIT, I'd often meet my father and Mike at the Toy Building after class. Sitting in that showroom, Mike taught me more about the toy industry—and human nature—than any classroom ever could. He'd smoke cigarettes (he eventually quit), crack jokes, and call out to Merner at the front desk to bring us something to drink. The banter between them was hysterical. I spent countless hours there, and I can still picture that showroom perfectly today.   Years later, when I was running Design Edge, Mike and I developed our own running joke. He'd try to negotiate better pricing by offering me a bag of peanut M&M's. And he never bought the small bags—he always showed up with the giant bag.   A few years after that, Mike and Bob joined me on my first trip to Hong Kong. Thinking I was about to experience authentic Chinese cuisine, I was surprised when Mike told me to meet him at La Taverna. La Taverna was, if I remember correctly, the oldest Italian restaurant in Hong Kong. The juxtaposition perfectly captured the city itself and helped me understand just how international Hong Kong, and the Toy Industry, really was.   The handover back to China was approaching, and once again Mike became my teacher, helping me understand why paying attention to the geopolitical landscape mattered just as much as understanding the toy business.   Over the next decade, whenever Mike needed a hand, we were always happy to help, working with him on countless products for Longshore long before Longshore became what it is today.   Then something funny started happening.   One day someone asked me if I knew Michael Kohner. Then someone else did. Then another person after that.   You see, while most people spend their later years slowing down or perfecting their golf game, Mike decided to give back to the toy industry. Through People of Play, he became a mentor to countless inventors and inventor-relations executives.   Suddenly, Mike was famous.   I'd sit back and laugh as people spoke about him with genuine awe. It was like watching your crazy uncle become the most popular person in the room. And man, did he win everyone over.   I'd known that version of Mike my entire life. Then I watched the rest of the toy industry discover what I'd always known. I was proud of him.   In recent years, I have constantly met people who counted Mike among their closest friends. That was his gift. He made people feel special.   And if Mike really liked you, you earned a seat at the Keen's dinner table during Toy Fair—a tradition that seemed to grow more meaningful with every passing year. At those dinners, you could always tell who had known Mike forever and who still couldn't quite believe they'd been invited. Mike had a remarkable ability to make people feel blessed simply to be included.   The funny thing is, Mike made everyone feel like they were part of something bigger. Whether you'd known him for forty years or forty minutes, he gave you his time, his attention, and usually a story you'd be repeating for years afterward.   Even as I write this, I'm looking at the book he gave me for my 50th birthday, after taking me out for a steak dinner I'll never forget.   Mike was family to me.   So Mike, thank you for everything. Thank you for the lessons, the laughs, the stories, the dinners, the M&M's, and the friendship.   You will be missed.   - Matt Nuccio, Design Edge       I first met Michael at a dinner in Chicago; I was new to the industry and we were both 'under the afluence of incohol;' a favorite 'Kohnerism'. We bonded over music, family and traditions. A week later he called me, and I was floored that he remembered every single detail of what we talked about. He asked about my family and my life, and he TRULY cared about it. It's what he was always about, connecting with people and deeply caring.   I was then fortunate to go to one of his (in)famous gatherings. I was so honored to be a part of this. There, with people from every nook of the global toy industry, he held court with toy company owners, inventors, friends, family. It didn't matter who you were or what you did, if you were his friend he added you to his family and he made everyone feel this way.    One day, when we shared an 8 person chocolate cake between the two of us, drinking sherry in his living room and him telling me the story of the stuffed Marlin on his wall…...I realised something that was one of (the million) favorite things about Michael….he made every moment with him feel like a real occasion. It didn't matter if it was 100 people in a room, or just the two of you. He knew exactly how to live life and how to deeply share this with the people that he loved.   The magnitude of his work, and the Kohner family's, along with his inspirational work ethic, is only surpassed by the legacy of his generosity, respect, mentorship, love and unmistakeable humour. No one else could go from a serious, meaningful conversation to busting your chops by the end of it. He made you realise what matters, and he gave me and so many others far more than I could ever give back. Losing him is hard, but I know how fortunate we are to have had him in our lives and we will carry on the lessons he so kindly left us. I've come to love a lot of yiddish phrases through Michael, and although there is not direct translation for 'Mensch' in Scots/Doric; I can say 'Yer a braw, couthie chiel'. Rest in peace, Mr Kohner.   - Dougal Grimes, Eighty-Two         We are heartbroken by the passing of Michael Kohner.    I still remember our good old days (40 years ago) when we traveled around Europe, running up and down at the New York toy building and presenting new games together, those moments are fond memories.   We will miss Michael deeply, and he will always be in our hearts.   -Michael Or, Longshore     I’m heartbroken to hear of Michael’s passing.   I met Michael over a decade ago when I was just finding my footing in the toy inventing community. From day one, he welcomed me into this crazy, wonderful industry with open arms and made me feel like I belonged.   I’ll always cherish our hour-long phone calls. We’d spend a little time talking about work, but most of our conversations were about family. Michael was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren, and it was impossible not to feel his love for them every time he spoke about them.   Michael was a constant connector in our industry. He had a remarkable gift for bringing people together, and so many of my favorite memories with toy friends happened because Michael made them happen. Time and again, he gathered the best of the best and created opportunities for friendships and connections that will last a lifetime.   His impact on the toy community was immeasurable, but what I’ll remember most is his kindness, generosity, and genuine care for the people around him.   I will never forget Michael. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and forever in my heart.   Sending love and condolences to his family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.   - Naomi Brugnatelli, Hasbro       After forty plus years in this industry I have met a few really good people but none better than Kohner. I will always remember him as one of the true greats. RIP Mk    - Michael Albert     Michael has been and will remain a guiding star for all of us, and it’s long been evident that he made everybody around him better by generously sharing his friendship, kindness and wisdom. I’m certainly richer for knowing Michael personally and he leaves an indelible mark. He will forever be held in our hearts as one of the all-time greats!    - Peggy Brown     It will be three decades. Over those years, through hundreds of meetings and countless dealings — whether in New York, New Jersey, Hong Kong, London or Henley — our friendship grew far beyond business.   Some of the most enjoyable moments were those unforgettable Kohner nights, and the many wonderful times we shared in each other’s homes. Over more than thirty years, Wendy and I have been so fortunate to share so many good times with you and Elaine.   I remember so clearly our wedding in Henley, when Wendy and I were honoured that you and Elaine came to celebrate with us. It meant more than I can properly put into words.   There were also those personal dinners — just us — full of laughter, stories and warmth. And I still smile thinking of the trips to New Jersey when you proudly showed me not one, not two, but at least three of your new cars. The Jaguar XK was always your favourite, if I recall correctly.   What fun we had. What memories we made.   I’ve found a few photos that bring all of this flooding back, and I wanted to share them with you — as a small reminder of a friendship that has meant so much, for so long.   With love, respect, and gratitude — and with you always in our thoughts.   - Mike Moody, Seven Towns       Michael Kohner was one of those rare people who left an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was kind, generous, warm-hearted, and endlessly welcoming. More than that, he had a remarkable gift for bringing people together. In an industry that could often be competitive, Michael created connections, friendships, and a sense of family that extended far beyond business.   I was lucky enough to share so many wonderful memories with Michael over the years. From Broadway shows to fabulous dinners that always seemed to involve far too much meat, every moment was filled with laughter, great conversation, and genuine friendship. Michael had a way of making people feel special. Whether you had known him for decades or had just met him, he made you feel seen, valued, and welcome.   That was Michael’s gift. He didn’t just build business relationships; he built lasting friendships. He brought people together, celebrated the successes of others, and made an entire industry feel a little smaller, warmer, and more connected.   The toy industry has lost one of its great champions, but those of us who knew Michael have lost something even more precious—a dear friend. I will remember his warmth, his generosity, his humour, and the joy he brought to every room he entered. I will always be grateful for the memories we shared and for the friendship he so freely gave.   Thank you, Michael. The world is a better place because you were in it.   - Elizabeth Moody, Seven Towns     Michael has been woven into so many meaningful chapters of my life in toys and games — first when I had the honor of standing beside him on stage at ChiTAG as he received a Lifetime Achievement Award, and later as someone I was privileged to learn from, do business with, and ultimately call a true friend.   Few people get to meet their legends; I got to sit at the table with mine, where he respectfully held no punches in negotiations. He has been an inspiration, a mentor, and most importantly a dear friend.   - Rich Mazel, All 4 Fun Toys     From the first moment I met Michael I felt like I had met one of the greats. He has inspired me to be a woman of integrity and purpose. Inclusion into his events always made me feel like I was in a very special secret society. I will fover be grateful to Michael for his friendship, sense of humor and love of country music. TIL I see you again my dear friend. Godspeed.    - Karri Bean, Disney       Michael and I have known each other for over 55 years. Our fathers and uncles knew each other long before we did. In all that time, I can’t remember a single moment when we didn’t laugh together or share something we would later regret — not once.   His love of life, family, and friends was front and center every single day.   I was fortunate enough to see him two and a half weeks ago at his home. We shared more laughs than tears, more hugs than heartaches. We had our “guy time” — drinks and dinner at the kitchen table (and wow, the bagels and lox were good). We told jokes — some good, some not so good — and talked about family and friends. It was four hours of Michael at his very best.   When it was time to leave, we said our goodbyes and promised we would see each other again. Michael said, “Hey, don’t make it too soon — I’ve got to check out the golf courses first.” Typical Michael.   He said goodbye with warm hands. I told him I would miss him and that I loved him.   His response: “I love you more.”   That’s Michael Kohner.   Miss you, buddy. And thank you for being my friend — and for letting me be yours.   Brenda and I shared many special occasions with Michael and Dede over the past couple of years, and we were fortunate to spend time with Michael’s family — Marci, Paul, and his grandchildren. The common thread in every moment was the incredible love they all had for Michael — and his constant “Love you more” right back at them.   Michael’s medical team, his family, his friends, and his own unmatched will to live stood beside him every step of the way.   Brenda and I will miss him deeply — until we see him again.   - George Irwin     Mike Kohner, for me, was a champion. When I was a kid visiting toy stores on a regular basis, I was always looking at the board game area. The Trouble Game was one of my favorites with the Pop-O-Matic Bubble in the middle of the board. When I met Mike, it was like meeting one of your heros. Whatever the occasion, a Matt Nuccio wedding, A New York steakhouse dinner, Toy Fair, a product meeting, I always got Mike to myself to talk board games for as long as I could.   Mike is a special man. His warmth surrounds you. His integrity is unquestioned. He has been a giver in life. He is LOVED by so many friends for a good reason. He loves you back. His relationships and his passion keep him going into his 80's as a licensing star as well. Mike will always stand as one of the giants of gameworld.    I believe he deserves to be in the TOY HALL OF FAME and I hope we can all lobby for that to happen.   God Speed my friend,   - Kevin McNulty, Endless Games     Michael is my favorite person in the game industry. I feel he took me under his wings 17 years ago. I had the privilege to be part of the theatre group in NY and always had time for me.    - Jenni Jalava, Martinex Oy     Dad 2. Thank you for the warm HGHs that felt like coming home, for the delicious glass of AS that somehow kept refilling like magic, and for being the witness to a life changing moment that I will never forget.   Thank you for always, love you forever. The other “daughter”    - Jael Golad, Goliath         I know I would not be where I am without Michael Kohner. After he and I first met, Michael sent me a few books about the toy industry. He shared stories and advice, and he always steered me in the right direction. While he was more than willing to share his thoughts about business, each conversation morphed into a discussion of his incredible love for his family.    Michael's sharing of knowledge came from a place of amazing wisdom and success, but he always made time for people who were just beginning their career path in this wonderful world of toys & games.    I'm eternally grateful for Michael's guidance and friendship- and plenty of discussions of country music. May his memory continue to lead us down a path of doing good and paying it forward to future generations.   - Alex Kimerling, Hootenanny Games     Having read the tributes and accompanying photos of Michael in his many guises there seems little left for me to add, other than that he was a singularly unique individual who contributed much to the variety of new products we have seen on the retail shelf over the years. -Andrew Berton, Excel Development     Michael Kohner was a truly stand-out individual. I remain so grateful to him for opportunities he arranged for me despite the very brief interactions we had. He modeled a mentorship that was generous, tangible, and impactful; it’s been years, but the feedback and encouragement he gave remains in my mental back pocket and buoys me forward when needed. I am certain the effects of his work and energy will continue to ripple out from the toy community into the world at large - his is an influence that will never stop making the world a more fun and playful place. - Isabelle Hodges       Michael was truly a legend. I met him later in the journey, so I'm glad that I got to share a few meals with him to hear his tales of the industry. A very interesting and generous man! - Barry McLaughlin, Barry and Jason, Games and Entertainment     I've read the many tributes to Michael's great legacy — as both a toy industry leader and as a human being — and it's with deep gratitude for having known him, and profound sadness at his passing, that I add a few stories to the collection.   As many of you know, he sponsored wonderful events for his friends and business partners, at places like POP Week's Inventor Conferences, the Chicago Toy & Game Fair and the New York Toy Fair. When I left Goliath, before I had any other plans, I talked to Michael. Since I was leaving my position as a potential big buyer for what he was selling and moving into the unknown, I thought his desire to include me in all his events might justifiably wane. When we spoke, he looked me in the eye and said, "David, you are always welcome at my table no matter what — it doesn't matter what job you have or don't have." I can still feel the goosebumps he gave me.   At Toy Fair, he let me know he was willing to move his schedule around if it would better accommodate me. Why in the world would he do that when he was feeling so poorly? Even with his health deteriorating, he was always thinking of the other person first.   I hate road trips, but Michael was the kind of guy who made you look forward to one as his quick wit made every mile worthwhile. Add me to the list of people who will really miss him.   - David Norman, Stormin' Studio         It is difficult to imagine our industry without him.   Many people knew him as a respected industry executive, and a member of one of the great families in the toy and games business. His father and uncle invented the iconic Pop-O-Matic mechanism that became synonymous with Trouble, and he carried that legacy forward throughout a remarkable career. He was a skilled negotiator, a passionate advocate for the industry, and someone who always stood up for what he believed was right.   But those of us fortunate enough to know him personally knew something even more important; what a wonderful gentleman and great memory maker he was.    He loved bringing people together. Whether it was hosting unforgettable gatherings during Toy Fair, taking large groups of friends to the theater, or sharing a meal and good conversation, he found joy in creating experiences for others. He believed that success was something to be shared, and he delighted in surrounding himself with friends and colleagues whose company he cherished.   Many people will remember his annual tradition of presenting Kohner Corporation pens at meetings. It was a small gesture, but it perfectly reflected who he was. He never took relationships for granted. He appreciated his partners, his colleagues, and his friends, and he had a gift for making people feel valued.   I was fortunate to count him among my dear friends.   In recent years, he faced health challenges with remarkable grace. Despite the hardship, he remained thoughtful, kind, and deeply concerned about others. Last year, when I was dealing with cancer, he kept checking in to see how I was doing. One day he called to tell me that he too had been diagnosed. In an unexpected way, we became chemotherapy buddies. During one of the most difficult periods of my life, he was a source of comfort, encouragement, and strength. We lifted each other up.   One conversation in particular will stay with me forever. He told me he was inspired by me, that he loved me dearly, and that when the time was right, I should return to work because the industry needed me. Those words meant more than he could have known.   He was a mentor, a teacher, a trusted advisor, and a cherished friend. Most of all, he was a gentleman in every sense of the word.   I will miss his wisdom. I will miss his generosity. I will miss his friendship. And I will miss the joy he brought into every room he entered.   Our industry has lost a remarkable figure, but those of us who knew and loved him have lost someone even greater.   We have lost a friend.   - Tanya Thompson, Hasbro       Michael was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. When I first joined Goliath, he immediately reached out to welcome me, inviting me to numerous dinners and generously sharing his life stories.   My deepest sympathies go out to his family, whom he spoke of so highly and with such love. Michael was truly one of one, and he will be incredibly missed but never forgotten.    - Brian Weiss, Goliath     I had the privilege of working on many of Kohner’s products and was fortunate enough to enjoy a few of his legendary dinners as well. He was a true class act—kind, generous, and always quick with a laugh. I hope his family and friends know the profound impact he had in bringing joy, laughter, and memorable moments to people of all ages around the world. I’m grateful to have experienced a few of those moments alongside the legend himself. ❤️ - Julie Doverspike, Goliath     Michael Kohner True Legend (in Toys & Pens) R.I.P      - Maarten Heerze, Goliath       Michael was a real MENSCH . A man with extraordinary life stories . I remember having dinners with him at NYTF a few years ago . It was always very a good lesson and a real take away at both personnal and professionnal levels. Sincere condolences for his Family And relatives . He was one of the « Kings » in the Games market.    - Adrien Attlan, Goliath       Michael Kohner was a man we will all not forget and it is so sad that he is no longer with us. His successful items, his generosity, his work ethics and his sharp humor will be missed.   I remember meeting him many moons ago (© Mike Kohner) high up in the toy building in New York, with Michael Or in a small chamber, with his items. Like many have written Michael was very good with people, he listened, remembered, and treated everyone alike.   Friendly, open, and honest. No bullshitting, no blabla. Half an hour with him often meant more business than half a day in other meetings.   New York Toy Fair will not be the same without him.   Dieter and Severin Strehl, Piatnik     I’ve been honored to be in Michael’s orbit for the past twelve years. He was sharp, witty, and always kept us on our toes, all while carrying himself with the grace and kindness of a true gentleman. Our community has lost a remarkable presence, and it will shine a little less brightly without him.   -Kelly Adams, Goliath       If you would like you have your memories and photos included, please send to mcouzin@toyassociation.org

Award-winning toy and game company champions initiative to inspire kids to step away from screens and get outside in conjunction with the launch of new outdoor game   Portland, OR (June 16, 2026) - Vango Toys, the company behind hit toys like the #UpsideDownChallenge Game, today announced the Anti-Couch Coalition in conjunction with its latest outdoor game The Original Cone Toss. As part of this initiative, the Anti-Couch Coalition will be donating Cone Toss samples to organizations that prioritize active, outdoor activity, such as summer camps, sports camps, schools, after-school programs, and youth recreation programs. By making outdoor play easy and portable, the Coalition encourages kids to step away from screens and rediscover the fun of playing together.   “The Anti-Couch Coalition was created to inspire a new generation to rediscover the fun of simple, active outdoor play and the launch of Cone Toss paired with the outdoor months makes this a natural fit for less screen time and more game time,”says Alex Tongue, CEO of Vango Toys.    In addition to donating games to outdoor organizations, camp directors, teachers and other program leaders who are interested in the initiative can request samples of Cone Toss via the application form on the Anti-Couch Coalition landing page.    To further amplify the Coalition, Cone Toss’ social media pages will spotlight participating organizations and will be sharing real life moments of kids playing, competing and enjoying their time with Cone Toss outdoors through user submitted photos and videos.   For more information on the Anti-Couch Coalition, please visit the Vango Toys website; Cone Toss is now available on Amazon.  About Vango Toys Vango Toys is an award winning toys and games company based in Oregon. They are dedicated to sparking creativity and eliminating boredom through engaging, interactive play. They pride themselves on enlisting the target audience to test and experiment their toy products before they are released, which are children. By ensuring their most important audience loves each game, Vango Toys deliver experiences that are built for fun, connection, and real world play.  Find more information at https://www.vangotoys.com/ or follow them on Facebook (@vangotoys), Instagram (@vango_toys), X (formerly known as Twitter) (@vango_toys) and Youtube(@vangotoys)    Media Contact: Carve Communications for Vango Toys Amy Friedland – amy@carvecomms.com  Emily Auriemma – emilya@carvecomms.com

Right now I am at the ASTRA exhibition in Milwaukee and my heart is truly overflowing with the warmest emotions. You know I have visited so many different exhibitions before but this one is special. It is completely unlike any other. There is such an incredible atmosphere here and the organization is absolutely flawless.I came here as a guest to lovingly choose the best products for my shop. Even though all the beauty around is mesmerizing, the greatest treasure of this journey has been the people, who are incredibly kind, bright, and sincere.From the bottom of my heart I want to embrace and thank everyone who gave me this wonderful experience.Iris Solomon became my incredible support. Your help at the exhibition was so important and valuable to me that it is hard to find the right words. Thank you for being by my side Sue Warfield, the wonderful president of ASTRA, it was a true honor and joy to meet you in person. You inspire so much with your energy.Jerry and Justin, thank you for your amazing care, professional product advice, and such warm, helpful consultations.And my special, warmest gratitude goes to Gene Murtha. If it were not for your thoughtful invitation I would never have been here and would never have met all these amazing people. Thank you for opening these doors for me and giving me this beautiful fairytale.Our festive Gala night was a magical finale filled with so many smiles and beautiful moments.I am returning home with inspiration, a lot of beautiful ideas, and incredible warmth in my soul. Thank you ASTRA for this love and for new friends!

  Hi Matt! Thanks for taking the time to speak with us! What can you tell us about your journey into the industry and journey/role within Hasbro’s global experiences, partnerships, and music division? I’ve been with Hasbro since 2007, and my journey really mirrors the company’s own evolution into the global games, IP, and toy powerhouse it is today. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work across multiple parts of the business – from managing the TRANSFORMERS brand through its first three films to overseeing marketing and business development for Hasbro’s entertainment studio. Having the opportunity to touch so many iconic brands along the way laid the foundation for where I am now.   Today, I lead teams within Hasbro’s Global Licensed Consumer Products division, where we focus on big‑picture, long‑term strategies across experiences, music, partnerships, and promotions. The goal is to bring brands like PEPPA PIG, Dungeons & Dragons, and MY LITTLE PONY to life in bold, unexpected ways – whether that’s through immersive attractions, live shows, original music, or standout partnerships. It’s an incredibly exciting space to play in, and it’s all about creating unforgettable moments that deepen how fans connect with our brands around the world.   What live experience trends are you seeing among brands and licensing that excite you? How much has this space grown globally/regionally and why? Live brand experiences have become one of the most exciting growth areas in licensing and entertainment globally. What’s especially compelling is how these experiences resonate differently across regions while tapping into a shared desire for immersion, play, and connection.   At Hasbro, our live experiences portfolio has expanded rapidly in recent years, spanning themed restaurants such as the newly announced CANDY LAND Café coming soon to San Diego, elevated immersive experiences like CLUE: A Mystery at the Mansion, community activations like the upcoming TRIVIAL PURSUIT Leeds Takeover to celebrate the city’s 400th anniversary, brand-focused retail experiences like the first-ever standalone PEPPA PIG and TRANSFORMERS stores in London, plus so much more.     We’re also continuing to build long‑term partnerships, including Dungeons & Dragons experiences with Universal and the newly announced D&D Fan Expo coming to London’s O2 in 2026. These aren’t one‑off pop‑ups – they’re culturally resonant, repeatable experiences designed to become part of fans’ everyday lives. The growth in this space is being driven by audiences who want to step inside the brands they love and share those moments with others.   Are there any insights/key learnings you’ve observed from opening a variety of live experiences (i.e. theme parks, touring shows, active play destinations, restaurants, etc.)? What is unique to each? What we’ve learned across theme parks, touring shows, active play destinations, and restaurants is that fans are craving memorable, immersive experiences that let them step into the worlds they love and not just observe them. Our brands span generations, from TRANSFORMERS to PEPPA PIG to Dungeons & Dragons, and each audience connects to them for different reasons. The key is understanding those motivations through deep consumer insights and then amplifying them by partnering with best‑in‑class operators who bring strong regional and category expertise.     One of the most rewarding insights has been seeing how eager fans are to fully engage and share these moments. Experiences like MONOPOLY Lifesized and PEPPA PIG Theme Parks attract both lifelong fans and first‑timers who want to play together, create memories, and share their experiences socially. That level of engagement speaks to the strength of our brands and reinforces that when experiences are done authentically, they don’t just entertain, they build lasting loyalty.     What music trends are you seeing among brands and licensing that excite you? How much has this space grown globally/regionally and why? Music has become an incredibly powerful extension of brand storytelling, giving fans yet another way to connect emotionally with the worlds they love. Across Hasbro, we’re seeing music succeed in multiple forms – from cinematic soundtracks like the D&D: Dungeon Masters Official Soundtrack and the upcoming, just announced THE TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE: THE SOUNDTRACK: THE REFORMATTED EDITION to story‑driven original songs for brands like MY LITTLE PONY and PEPPA PIG, to bold pop collaborations with PEPPA PIG and JEM AND THE Each approach meets fans where they are, while reinforcing the heart and personality of the brand.     This space has seen significant growth for us over the past few years, particularly as streaming and social platforms have made music more discoverable and shareable globally. PEPPA PIG has been a standout example, with collaborations including Peppa‑fied versions of Katy Perry’s “Roar,” Wham!’s “Last Christmas,” Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger,” Rihanna’s “Diamonds,” and our recent Peppa Pig Pop covers album. The fan response has been overwhelming, with audiences fully embracing Peppa as a pop star in her own right. It’s a great example of how music can expand a brand’s cultural footprint while deepening fan connection across generations.   How has the industry evolved with respect to brand storytelling and licensing for live experiences and music? The industry has evolved dramatically as fans look for deeper, more meaningful connections with the brands they love – far beyond traditional merchandise. Today’s audiences bring their own lifestyles, values, and personal memories to these brands, which creates an opportunity to treat them as fully connected ecosystems spanning entertainment, storytelling, consumer products, live experiences, music, and licensing.   A great example of this approach is PEPPA PIG, where thoughtful, real‑world storytelling sits at the center of the brand. Recent narrative developments, such as the arrival of baby sister Evie and George being diagnosed with moderate hearing loss in one ear, were introduced through new television episodes and then thoughtfully extended across licensing and live experiences. From updated costume characters at Peppa Pig Theme Parks to music releases designed to help families talk about these moments together, these stories live consistently across every touchpoint.   This kind of interconnected storytelling is increasingly essential. When licensing, live experiences, and music all reinforce the same narrative, brands feel more authentic, relevant, and emotionally resonant. It’s not just about expanding into new categories, it’s about building cohesive brand worlds that fans can engage with in multiple, meaningful ways.     What is your favorite project at the moment? One project I’m especially excited about right now is Hasbro’s “Apology Tour,” a year-long campaign that playfully acknowledges the emotional impact of THE TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE while celebrating its enduring legacy. As part of the film’s 40th anniversary, we’re bringing it back to theaters, reimagining its official soundtrack with original artists and new special guests, and reengaging fans in a meaningful, culturally relevant way.   The original film delivered one of the most unexpected and emotional moments in animated cinema, the fall of Optimus Prime, and decades later, fans are still talking about it.   Now, thanks to our collaboration with Fathom Entertainment, audiences get to experience it the way it was meant to be seen: together, on the big screen. It’s not just about reliving the action or the iconic music – it’s about revisiting that moment, collectively, and celebrating the lasting impact it’s had on generations of fans.   You are attending Licensing Expo in Las Vegas this year. What do you enjoy most about attending industry events? Licensing Expo is one of my favorite industry events because it brings the global licensing community together in a way that really sparks creativity. It’s a chance to reconnect face‑to‑face with longtime partners, meet new collaborators, and have meaningful conversations about where brands and the industry are headed.   For Hasbro, it’s also a vital moment in the year. We’re able to showcase the breadth and momentum of our iconic brand portfolio, highlight our latest collaborations, and build excitement around what’s next. Just as importantly, the conversations that happen at Licensing Expo often set the tone and create real momentum for the months ahead, making it an invaluable touchpoint for our business.   Did you have a favorite toy or game growing up? TRANSFORMERS was definitely one of my favorites growing up. What drew me in was how big and bold the world felt – the characters, the mythology, and the idea that these robots were more than heroes and villains. Fast forward to today, getting to work on TRANSFORMERS at Hasbro truly feels like coming full circle. I grew up as a fan, and now I get to help shape how the brand shows up for fans around the world!   What advice do you have for people beginning their careers in the industry? My biggest piece of advice is to stay curious and be open to every opportunity that comes your way. This industry is constantly evolving, and some of the most valuable experiences come from stepping outside your comfort zone and learning different parts of the business.   I’d also emphasize the importance of relationships. This is a highly collaborative industry, and building strong, authentic connections with colleagues, partners, and mentors can open doors and create opportunities that you might not expect.   Fill in the blank: I’m lucky that… I’m lucky that I get to collaborate with incredibly creative teams and partners, and that the work we do has a real connection to people — whether it’s creating experiences, music, or moments that fans genuinely care about. Being part of that kind of impact, across generations and around the world, is what makes it so meaningful.