Mattel

Mattel_(2019)

Mattel_logo

Mattel, Inc. is an American multinational toy manufacturing company founded in January 1945 and headquartered in El Segundo, California. The company was founded by Harold "Matt" Matson and Elliot Handler, and the name "Mattel" is a portmanteau of "Matt" and "Elliot". Mattel is known for producing a wide range of toys and games, including some of the most iconic brands in the toy industry.

History

Mattel was established in 1945 by Harold "Matt" Matson and Elliot Handler. Initially, the company started as a picture frame business, but it soon shifted its focus to toy manufacturing. One of the company's first successful products was the Uke-A-Doodle, a toy ukulele.

In 1959, Mattel introduced the Barbie doll, which became one of the company's most successful and enduring products. The Barbie doll was created by Ruth Handler, Elliot Handler's wife, and was named after their daughter, Barbara. The success of Barbie led to the creation of other popular toy lines, including Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, and American Girl.

Products

Mattel's product portfolio includes a wide range of toys and games. Some of the most notable brands and products include:

• Barbie: A fashion doll that has become a cultural icon since its introduction in 1959.
• Hot Wheels: A line of die-cast toy cars introduced in 1968.
• Fisher-Price: A brand of educational toys for infants and toddlers.
• American Girl: A line of dolls and books that focus on various historical and contemporary themes.
• Masters of the Universe: An action figure line introduced in the 1980s, featuring characters like He-Man and Skeletor.
• Polly Pocket: A line of miniature dolls and playsets.

Acquisitions and Partnerships

Over the years, Mattel has acquired several companies and entered into various partnerships to expand its product offerings. Some notable acquisitions include:

• Fisher-Price: Acquired in 1993, Fisher-Price is known for its educational toys for young children.
• American Girl: Acquired in 1998, American Girl produces dolls and books that focus on historical and contemporary themes.
• Mega Brands: Acquired in 2014, Mega Brands is known for its construction toys, including Mega Bloks.

Controversies

Mattel has faced several controversies over the years, including issues related to product safety, labor practices, and environmental impact. In 2007, the company faced a major recall of toys due to lead paint contamination, which led to increased scrutiny and regulatory changes in the toy industry.

Headquarters and Global Presence

Mattel's headquarters are located in El Segundo, California. The company has a global presence, with offices and manufacturing facilities in various countries around the world. Mattel's products are sold in more than 150 countries, making it one of the largest toy manufacturers in the world.

See also

• List of Mattel toys
• Barbie
• Hot Wheels
• Fisher-Price
• American Girl
• Masters of the Universe
• Polly Pocket
• Mega Bloks