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EXECUTIVE NEWS

Toys “R” Us announced earlier this month that it named Claire Babrowski as its evp and coo, a newly created role. Babrowski will lead the company’s worldwide logistics and information technology functions. She will also oversee all of the company’s global franchise operations and have responsibility for the growth of the company’s owned operations and equity positions in the Pacific arena. Babrowski will serve as a member of the company’s executive committee and report to Jerry Storch, chairman and ceo. Babrowski most recently served as acting ceo, president and coo of RadioShack.

VENDOR NEWS

Pressman Toy Corp. and Pokémon USA Inc. announced a licensing agreement late last month in which Pressman Toy has the right to develop board games, matching games, travel games, puzzles and dominoes under the Pokémon name in the United States. The first game in this new product line will be released in the fall.

Mattel announced last month an extended licensing partnership with Springs global to produce a first-ever complete line of bedding and bath products for infants and toddlers under Mattel’s Fisher-Price brand. Springs and Mattel also will continue to create bedding and bath products for kids.