PlayMonster Acquires Kahootz Toys

PlayMonster has acquired the assets of the kids’ arts and crafts company Kahootz Toys.

Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Kahootz Toys is behind such brands as Y’Art, Spirograph, Colorforms, Fashion Plates, LatchKits, Play-Doh and Waterfuls. This year, the company was awarded the ASTRA Best Toys for Kids award and is a TOTY finalist for Creative Toy of the Year. PlayMonster’s acquisition of Kahootz Toys marks the latest in its efforts to strengthen its position in the toy industry.

Bob Wann, chief PlayMonster of PlayMonster, said: “This is PlayMonster’s largest acquisition to date and we’re thrilled to continue our multi-category growth strategy building and adding classic brands while expanding our footprint in the activity and stationery aisles. Kahootz has shown a commitment to providing innovative products to kids of all ages, and this philosophy aligns with our mission to make a positive difference in people’s lives through the power of play. Their team has done an outstanding job, and with our help, will continue to grow the Kahootz brand at retail.”

Joe Yassay, CEO and founding partner of Kahootz Toys, said: “We are very excited to be joining PlayMonster and the Audax Private Equity family of companies. The addition of our products to PlayMonster’s already impressive portfolio of children’s toys and games is a win-win for everyone involved—our companies, licensors, suppliers and customers. We look forward to helping PlayMonster champion the power of play by supporting continued growth and market penetration in the mass, specialty and international marketplaces.”