#United States #New York #Melissa & Doug #Toy Awards #Wooden Toys

Melissa & Doug Wins Prestigious Toy of the Year Award

Melissa & Doug, a leading name in preschool toys known for its commitment to wooden and sustainable designs, has recently secured its first Preschool Toy of the Year (TOTY) Award for its remarkable creation: the Sort, Stock, Select Wooden Vending Machine Play Set. This milestone was celebrated at the 2025 Toy Foundation's TOTY Awards Gala, held in the vibrant setting of New York City, coinciding with the much-anticipated Toy Fair at the Javits Center.

The TOTY Awards stand out in the toy industry, recognizing exceptional products chosen through votes from Toy Association members as well as media and retail professionals. In an exciting reveal, Melissa & Doug’s Senior Vice President of Design, Sofia Dumery, and Lead Product Designer, Brett Almstead, proudly accepted the award on behalf of the talented team behind this innovative toy.

Dumery expressed gratitude, stating, "It's an honor to be recognized for our commitment to creating innovative toys that inspire the kind of kid-powered, wholesome play that will help children develop the confidence to take on the world." She emphasized that the award is a reflection of the dedication and creativity of the teams at Melissa & Doug, who strive to deliver extraordinary play experiences for families and children alike.

About the Award-Winning Vending Machine Play Set

The Sort, Stock, Select Wooden Vending Machine Play Set is designed to be an engaging tool for learning and imaginative play. Children can experience the joys of vending with double-sided play candy, snacks, and drinks, enhancing their motor skills as they interact with the toy. Kids can drop color-matching play coins or use a pretend credit card to operate the vending machine, encouraging them to recognize letters, numbers, and colors while mastering sorting and matching.

Interestingly, this wooden vending machine has become a favorite among families, as many parents and teachers have taken to social media to share their creative uses for the toy, often filling it with real treats and small toys to establish a rewards system for children.

Recognition in Additional Categories

Not only did Melissa & Doug walk away with the Preschool Toy of the Year accolade, but they also received a nomination in the Creative Toy of the Year category for their exciting Sticker WOW!® products, showcasing the brand's broad appeal and innovative approach to play.

In her remarks, Pamela Mastrota, Executive Director of The Toy Foundation, conveyed her congratulations to all winners, highlighting the innovative spirit and passion that the toy industry embodies. "The TOTY Awards celebrate the best of what the toy industry has to offer — innovation, imagination, and the ability to bring joy to kids and families," she said.

About Melissa & Doug

Melissa & Doug proudly embraces the motto: "Timeless Toys. Endless Possibilities.®" Their diverse range of products, including wooden toys, crafts, and pretend play sets, provides a fertile ground for igniting children's imaginations. As the top preschool brand recognized for sustainable toys, Melissa & Doug firmly commits to making timeless products that contribute positively to the world. As a subsidiary of Spin Master Corp., they continue to leverage their position to create toys that foster development in children while ensuring sustainable practices.

As the toy industry evolves, awards like the TOTY serve as beacons that celebrate creativity and forward-thinking in the realm of play. For Melissa & Doug, this recognition is a testament to their mission to inspire and ignite the wonders of childhood, ensuring that every child can discover their passions through playful imagination.

For press inquiries, please contact:

• - Rosalie Sellman

rosalie.sellman@melissaanddoug.com