Nextoy’s Robert Fuhrer on representing inventor Yair Shilo and revolutionising sabers with Power Saber

Bob, it’s always lovely to catch up! We’re here to talk about the Power Saber – a truly impressive invention! For anyone who hasn’t seen it in action, how would you describe it?
The Power Saber is a groundbreaking innovation in the world of sabers. It’s the first toy in its category to feature automatic extending and retracting capabilities. While lightsabers are iconic props from movies, no toy saber has managed to retract automatically until now.

Unlike previous spring-loaded versions from Hasbro and Disney that pops open at the press of a button, the Power Saber extends and retracts automatically at the push of a button, complete with lights and sound effects. It’s designed for safe, durable play, capable of withstanding saber battles, while featuring a safety mechanism that gently collapses the blade to prevent injury.

The saber also includes sensors that synchronise sounds with swings and “flash-on-clash” effects for dynamic light and sound feedback during combat.

We’ll pop a video in here so folks can see that in action.

Where did the concept for the Power Saber originate?
The original idea, vision and innovation how the saber is built and designed, including the mechanism and materials is entirely the brainchild of inventor Yair Shilo. He conceived the idea for this mechanism around 2013. I met Yair in early 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic began. He needed someone based in the USA with the connections and expertise to partner with major toy companies. A mutual acquaintance suggested Nextoy.

Since then, we’ve had almost daily calls about the project, which have evolved from discussing an initial idea to bringing the product to market. After several years of development, it’s getting a ton of media attention and listed as one of the best-selling toys at Target and Walmart.

Delving into the development, what was the biggest technical challenge in making the Power Saber a reality?
The development involved numerous challenges, including safety, battery life, speed, light quality, sound effects and durability. It was an impressive engineering achievement accomplished by Goliath’s team, guided by Yair’s vision and expertise. Integrating all these elements to ensure consistent, reliable performance was a major feat, and Goliath achieved it within just 18 months.

Going back to Yair for a moment, what’s his background in this space?
His father ran a plastics factory, so he grew up around making plastic products and has extraordinary experience and knowledge for manufacturing – in addition to his exceptional mechanical engineering skills. He’s also remarkably persistent and a perfectionist, paying attention to every detail, however small it may seem. This trait played a major role in Goliath’s ability to make a quality product and turn it around as quickly as they did.

On that impressive turnaround, what made Goliath a great partner for the Power Saber?
Goliath is naturally entrepreneurial, with the resources to support significant investments and the agility to move quickly. They were transparent and collaborative, holding weekly video calls with Yair and our team. Even Jochanan Golad – Goliath’s CEO – was involved, checking in once or twice a month. Their smart, accommodating, and cooperative approach made us feel like part of the family.

Before we wrap up, what else should be keep an eye out for from you and the Nextoy team?
The Power Saber is certainly a highlight, but we’ve also been working on several other exciting projects. We’re developing a top-secret project with TOMY, set to debut at the Nuremberg Toy Fair and described as “the star of the 2025 line.”

We’re also launching a new activity toy with Horizon, the ColorMotion Animated Coloring Tablet, with licenses for Hello Kitty and Bluey. Additionally, we’ve been involved in placing a patented ‘Kidult’ project with Tree Town Toys, run by experienced toy industry veterans – that is expected to be announced very soon.

Our classic games of Crocodile Dentist and Gator Golf continue to be best-sellers after all these years, and I’m extremely proud how our KenKen logic and math puzzle is growing, including international tournaments.
Moreover, with the help and vision of my sons Sam and Alex, Nextoy has ventured into the Web3 space with Nextoy Digital. They facilitated a partnership between Doodles and Spin Master, marking the first Web3 collaboration for the Rubik’s brand. This project includes custom animations, digital NFT collectibles and exclusive physical Rubik’s Cubes.

Nextoy Digital is also supporting Spin Master with marketing opportunities, celebrity partnerships, and high-end art collaborations. This includes our ongoing work with rapper Logic and his Rubik’s ambassadorship, as well as a recent deal for custom Deadmau5-themed Rubik’s Cubes. I’m thrilled about these new directions and learning experiences.

Always a pleasure Bob. Thanks again – and congrats on Power Saber.

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