TinkerTini’s Trina McFarland looks at the many initiatives and services out there providing companies with access to inventors and outside ideas… And why a combination of them holds the key to successful external outreach.

Eolo’s Alex Prieto talks about growing up in toys, smiling on and why he makes fun product videos.

The Marketing Store also developed a Happy Meal box which transforms into Pikachu, complete with pop-out ears.

September’s Virtual Play Creators Festival will mirror the digital format of last year’s event, with two weeks of activity including a week-long virtual conference, a digital awards and a three-day Mojo Pitch event.

Michael Rinzler – Executive VP and Partner at Jazwares – talks us through building the Yankees of Inventor Relations and why inventors are vital to the firm’s plans moving forward.

No one quite imagined 2020 to be the year it has been. Si digital’s Steven Piper looks at why it’s important to recognise the cultural shift that’s taken place and identify new opportunities.

While the branding will change, Hasbro will still sell Mr Potato Head and Mrs Potato Head.

“Inspired by the beauty trends taking over social media like makeovers and make-up crushing, we wanted to provide kids with a fun glam toy that allows them to express their creative style,” said Jazwares’ Laura Zebersky.

“This expanded product licensing partnership allows us to deliver an amazing line-up of Fortnite-inspired toys and collector items that we’re confident fans will be excited to experience,” said Hasbro’s Adam Biehl.

We caught up with Jared Wade, SVP of Design & Development at Hasbro, to learn more about his start in the industry and why inventors remain as important as ever to the company.