Playing At Business - toy & game business podcast with Steve Reece

Hosted by Steve Reece

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100

Latest episode

Apr 2026

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About the show

Podcast about the toy & games business, hosted by leading toy business expert Steve Reece of www.KidsBrandInsight.com. Steve takes a look at different trends in the toy & game biz, and speaks to interesting people from across the business. © 2018 RG Marketing Ltd. All rights reserved.

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60 recent

April 8, 2026Episode 11419 min

Ep 114 - The Rise of Toy & Game Micro Brands: How Small Toy Companies Are Outsmarting the Giants

Today we're diving into one of the most exciting shifts happening in the toy and game industry right now – the rapid rise of micro brands. We'll explore how small, agile toy companies are successfully competing with, and in many cases outsmarting, the biggest Toy brands and companies. We'll look at what's changed in the market, why agility is beating scale in 2026, and share practical strategies that micro brands can use to carve out profitable niches and build loyal communities. Whether you're running a small brand, working inside a larger company, or simply interested in where the industry is heading, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Let's get into it. Also check out www.KidsBrandInsight.com for details of how our Toy & Game business Consultancy services can help your business.

October 21, 2025Episode 11319 min

Episode 113 - 5 Years On: 5 Ways Covid Permanently Changed The Toy & Game Biz

In this episode, host Steve Reece takes a deep dive into the long-term impact of the Covid pandemic on the Toy & Game industry. Five years since the first global lockdowns, the dust has settled—and the changes are here to stay. From pricing shifts and supply chain diversification to the evolution of trade shows and the rise of direct-to-consumer strategies, this episode explores how one black swan event reshaped the business forever. Whether you're a brand owner, distributor, retailer, or industry observer, this episode offers actionable insights and strategic takeaways. Plus, Steve shares updates on his LinkedIn newsletters, the REECE REPORT, and the launch of ToyRecruitment.com—a specialist recruitment service built by insiders for the Toy & Game biz. Tune in to understand what's changed, what's working, and what the future might hold. More information on our leading Toy & Game business Consultancy here: www.KidsBrandInsight.com Ifyou are a Toy or Game company seeking to hire the right people: www.ToyRecruitment.com

June 17, 2025Episode 11219 min

EP 112 - 8 Characteristics Of Toy Companies That Stand The Test Of Time

What makes a toy company last for generations? In this episode, we break down the eight essential characteristics that separate fleeting fads from industry legends. From unwavering brand identity to innovation that evolves with consumer trends, we uncover the secrets behind long-term success. Expect insights into adaptability, quality, nostalgia, and the magic of emotional connection. Whether you're a toy industry veteran or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode delivers practical wisdom for building a business that stands the test of time.

June 13, 202519 min

Ep 111 - Tariff Tribulations

It's been a wild start to 2025 with tariff tribulations abounding. From supply chain disruptions to retail price rises, these developments have produced a complex landscape for Toy & Game companies to try to navigate. Join us as we unpack the challenges, explore strategic responses and offer some tips to help you navigate the current situation.

September 25, 2024Episode 11023 min

EP 110 - So You Invented A Board Game, Now What? How To Commercially Launch Your Game

In this episode, board games business expert Steve Reece of www.KidsBrandInsight.com runs through the steps in completing a commercial launch of a board game (also includes a card game or other cardboard based Games). If you are wondering what you need to do next after you came up with the idea of a Game and made a Gameplay mechanic, then this episode is for you.

August 27, 202440 min

EP 109 - TOY & GAME STARTUPS: 10 TIPS

Over the last decade and a half or so, we have advised 200+ Toy startups and Game startups. There have been a number of recurring Tips and bits of advice we have given. This podcast covers those Top Ten Tips for startups in this whacky world of Toys & Games. This is a definite must listen for new entrants to the business of Play!

July 15, 2024Episode 10818 min

Ep 108, Toy Biz India Trade Show Review

This episode reviews the Toy Biz trade show event in Delhi. This time round more than 400 exhibitors were at the show. Host Steve Reece runs through his experience at the event, and discusses the many opportunities for Toy & Game companies in India.

May 31, 2024Episode 10736 min

Ep 107 - Which Toy & Game Trade Shows Should You Attend?

This is the question we get most often. There are a number of key trade shows in the Toy business, and historically there has been a commom complaint that we have too many of these shows and that the schedule is inefficient. The pandemic gave us a good opportunity to consider our show schedules and to reassess what makes most sense for our businesses. In this episode we run through the main shows and talk about how to decide which shows to participate in.

February 22, 202424 min

Ep 106 - Board Games: 10 Key Success Factors AKA What I learnt Working On The Best & Worst Selling Games Of All Time

In this latest episode host Steve Reece shares 10 Key Success Factors for Board Games based on decades working with and on some of the most iconic Games of all times, including Hasbro's stable of Family Games such as Monopoly. Clue/do, Risk, Game of Life and many more. Unusually Steve also acknowledges working on the worst selling board game of all time, as well as the best. If you are in the business of Games this is a must listen episode. Sign up for our free email newsletter on the Toy & Games industry here: www.ToyIndustryJournal.com

February 15, 202426 min

Ep 105 - Spielwarenmesse 2024 Toyfair Review & EU Toy Market Outlook For 2024

Another Spielwarenmesse Toyfair in Nuremberg has been and gone. This episode reviews this years show, and based on conversations at the show and market data released at this time gives an analytical outlook on the key drivers and trends of the European Toy market for 2024. Sign up for our free Email Newsletter here: www.ToyIndustryJournal.com