Hasbro moves games unit to Rhode Island

PAWTUCKET, R.I. — Hasbro announced that it is reorganizing its global games business and moving its games marketing and games development employees from East Longmeadow, Mass. to Rhode Island.

“Hasbro has the strongest portfolio of games brands in the industry and this is an important move to accelerate our re-imagination of games. However, it is always difficult to make changes that affect our people,” said Brian Goldner, President and CEO. “We are committed to continuously re-inventing this business and growing it for the long term. This includes maintaining our leadership position in face-to-face board gaming, while also more effectively competing in the broader world of gaming across all platforms.”

Hasbro is calling its reorganized gaming department the "Center for Excellence for Games." The company reported that this groupwill identify key games brands for new play experiences and development, while focusing its efforts and work force on initiatives across multiple platforms in both traditional and digital gaming.

Hasbro said it expects to relocate approximately 70 employees with a reduction in force of approximately 75 by the end of the year. The impacted employees will be offered a severance package, benefits continuation and outplacement services. Hasbro factory and certain corporate service employees will not be affected by this move.