Paladone has today announced the acquisition of WeCool Toys Inc, a global designer and manufacturer of dynamic toys, crafts, compounds and more based in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, US.
Founded in 2016 by two experienced toy executives, Jeff Osnato and Ross Alber, WeCool Toys has become one of the global market leaders in the slime toy category with its Compound Kings brand, and has driven innovation and creativity across the toys and crafts industry with the launch of thousands of products into 35 countries that delight, fascinate and amaze the senses.
The acquisition is aligned to Paladone’s strategy of growth into new categories that leverage Paladone’s extensive licensing relationships and market distribution to grow internationally and bring a wider range of trend-led consumer goods to customers globally.
WeCool Toy’s products respond to growing demand for innovative, quality toys and crafts that differentiate with on-trend themes, empower kids to think outside the box and provide entertainment and education value to children worldwide.
Jim Downey, Paladone CEO, said “I am delighted to welcome WeCool Toys to the Paladone family. It has built strong customer appeal through innovation and creativity in a number of growing toy segments. This acquisition is a great step in our evolution to becoming a global leader in trend-led, consumer goods. I am confident that with the full support of Paladone behind WeCool Toys, we will take this fast-growing business to even greater heights.”
Jeff Osnato, President of WeCool Toys, said “WeCool is thrilled to be joining Paladone. Combining our talents and resources, this acquisition is a promise to our customers, employees, and partners. Together we are stronger, more agile, and ready to seize the opportunities which lie ahead.”
Jeff Osnato will continue to lead as President of WeCool Toys Inc, reporting to Jim Downey, CEO of Paladone Products.