Ever wondered why certain toys aren’t released in your part of the world, or who to blame when things go wrong or when prices are too high, well now we’re one step closer. The Nordic TransFans Association have interviewed Hasbro’s Global Brand Marketing Director for the Transformers brand, Michael Vibede Vanting.
Discussed were reasons for exclusive toys only being available in the USA, the possibility of exclusives in Europe and the likelihood of updating the international versions of Transformers.com.
Very interesting interview and a good insight into Hasbro’s operation. Disappointing to hear that our European cousins seem to have more issues obtaining product and service from Hasbro than the UK. I’m sure the logistics of managing a global brand must be a nightmare, but surely as one poster suggested, localised offices would at least be a step in the right direction. I’m sure the reason these don’t exsist is purely down to cost and the ease of having a centralised hub of operations for Europe and the rest of the world. It seems a good example of the problems of Globalisation and its ‘one size fits all’ approach which has left consumers disappointed. This is a shame, as there are quite clearly people like Mr Vanting who care about their work.
Another slight niggle would be the overlooking of the fanbase. I appreciate the comments that this is primarily a childrens toy and as such desreves their focus, but surely there’s room for a little effort to be made towards the growing fanbase? After all, some of these kids may very well choose to get involved with fandom.
Comment by Skyquake87 — October 16, 2008 @ 10:22 am