PlayMonster Acquires Ann Williams GroupPlayMonster Acquires Ann Williams Group

Today, leading international toy and game company PlayMonster announced the acquisition of the Michigan-based Ann Williams Group, a manufacturer of craft and activity kits. With wide distribution across mass retailers, including Target, Nordstrom, Michaels plus specialty and independent retail channels, Ann Williams has sold millions of kits to generations of inspired makers worldwide.

The addition of the Ann Williams business further scales PlayMonster’s footprint in the growing craft and activity toy industry category, complementing current activity brands including Spirograph, Colorforms, Latchkits, Face Paintoos and more.

“The innovation, quality and attention to detail of Ann Williams’ beautiful products are outstanding and best-in-class within the category,” says Bob Wann, chief executive officer, PlayMonster. “They deliver a wonderful play experience that aligns perfectly with our vision at PlayMonster and demonstrates a nice synergy with our growth following the successful integration of Kahootz over the last year.”

Brands that will join the PlayMonster lineup as part of the acquisition include Craft-tastic, Loopdedoo, Craft Crush, Loopdeloom and Sticker & Chill.

“We’ve been inspiring creativity with innovative craft and activity kits for more than 12 years, driven by the core belief that hands-on activities and creative play are one of the best gifts you can give a child,” says Sheila Wright, founder and president, Ann Williams Group. “The joy of the experience is so much more than just an activity, and we see those same shared values in all that the PlayMonster team does. We are delighted to become part of the PlayMonster family, continuing to share the magic and possibility of our brands with people everywhere.”