Step inside the secretive world of toymakers

At a $3-billion toy company in downtown Toronto, kindergarteners file in with parents and siblings, clad in snowsuits and ready to offer their expertise. They pass a toy museum decked out with Paw Patrol toys, Tech Decks, Bakugan and more, and eventually arrive at a small room with a large two-way mirror. Soon, they’ll be … Read more

Etsy Announces Workforce Reduction of 225 Employees, CEO Cites ‘Unfortunate’ Timing

Etsy, the e-commerce platform specialising in handmade and vintage items, has confirmed the layoff of 225 employees due to what CEO Josh Silverman described as “essentially flat” sales. The staff received the disheartening news through a live stream on Wednesday, with Silverman acknowledging the less-than-ideal timing during the bustling holiday season. The e-commerce giant has … Read more

Barbie maker Mattel to make American Girl doll live-action movie

“Barbie” may soon be joined by another Mattel doll on the big screen. The toy company is developing a live-action film based on its American Girl doll line, Mattel announced Wednesday. “American Girl” will be produced by Mattel Films, Paramount Pictures and Temple Hill Entertainment, the production company of “Twilight” and “The Fault in Our Stars.” … Read more

Toymaker Hasbro will cut 900 jobs in addition to earlier layoffs

Hasbro said on Monday it would cut another 900 jobs globally, nearly a year after the toymaker announced it would reduce 15 per cent of its workforce amid weaker sales. Hasbro had said in January it would cut about 1,000 full-time positions. On Monday, the company said it had already cut 800 jobs. Hasbro had employed … Read more