The deal was detailed at this year’s London International toy Show for Distributors, Distoy.
The two companies have enjoyed a successful, strong partnership since 2016 when PlayMonster acquired a North American license for Interplay’s top-selling My Fairy Garden brand, which has since enjoyed success across ten global markets.
The Wisconsin-based PlayMonster has now acquired Interplay’s operations and full brand portfolio in an opportunity to ‘build on the natural fit between the two companies and create synergy through complementary brands.’
Both Interplay and PlayMonster have been among the fastest growing companies in their respective territories over recent years. This new relationship will ‘mean increased growth potential for both PlayMonster and Interplay in existing markets through new and incremental product categories.’
Bob Wann, chief PlayMonster of PlayMonster and chairman of the US Toy Association, said: “This is PlayMonster’s first international acquisition and its largest acquisition to date.
“This important step will strengthen the excellent team we have, as well as expediate the growth of PlayMonster and Interplay brands around the world. With Interplay becoming the first subsidiary, with an office and employees who will continue the business as usual from their headquarters in Marlow, it gives both companies an outstanding opportunity to grow their business globaly.”
Ross Ainsworth, founder at Interplay, added: “Our team at Interplay shares with PlayMonster a common philosophy of the importance of play, as well as a passion for creating high-quality, enduring products at affordable prices.
“We have incredible respect for what the PlayMonster team has been building, and we are looking forward to expanding our brands into North American and beyond.”