Some people think that being a toy company is all fun and games. They think that we just play with toys and dream about exciting new products. Ok, we’ll admit that there is some playing, dreaming and fun involved; however, there is also a lot of hard work, business savvy and strategic marketing that goes on behind the scenes in order to create the best toys possible, just for you.
Play Along was founded by three dreamers who combined their knowledge of licensing, sales and business operations to build an award-winning company that markets products quickly and effectively. We are known today for our fast-paced entrepreneurial spirit and our specialty in bringing the hottest licensed products to customers worldwide.
In an industry with a consumer base that changes its tastes about as fast as their iPod playlist, we’ve learned how to successfully partner with the latest and greatest in children’s entertainment. Our first such venture was a partnership in 1999 with a young rising star named Britney Spears. We developed a Britney toy line that sold over $100 million at retail in the course of 4 years. Other top entertainment properties we’ve partnered with include Cat in the Hat™, Spy Kids™ 2 and Lord of the Rings™ – all were fun toy lines based on successful major motion pictures.
In addition to working with the hottest “of-the-moment” brands, we also have a knack for identifying classic brands that have the potential to reemerge effectively. We take those much-loved properties and strategically build new product lines that both relate to long-time fans and appeal to a fresh new audience. Our flourishing classic toy lines now include Cabbage Patch Kids®, Care Bears™, Doodle Bear®, Sky Dancers® and Trolls.
While we’ve been a leader in dolls and plush over the years, we’ve recently ventured into the world of competitive sports with Speed Stacks®, the official equipment for the new fast-action game of sport stacking. It’s something so unique and amazing, you just have to see it to believe it…take a look at www.speedstacks.com.
In 2004, our company was acquired by JAKKS Pacific, Inc. – one of the top U.S. consumer products companies. Like a good parent, JAKKS has allowed us to grow independently with the same entrepreneurial spirit and creativity we’ve always had. However, being part of a large corporation has also provided us with a stronger foundation and additional resources. For more information on JAKKS Pacific, please click here.
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