Toymaker HTI Group hires new CEO from Leapfrog
HTI Group, the privately-owned North West company which makes toys under the Peppa Pig, Hello Kitty and Tonka brands, has announced a top-level reshuffle, with a new chief executive appointed.
Current CEO and major shareholder John Hutt is moving to chairman, while the Fleetwood-based company will now be led by experienced executive Christopher Spalding.
Mr Spalding is currently managing director and senior vice president of Leapfrog International, the US-owned educational entertainment group.
He has spent the last five years growing its international division. His CV includes roles with major companies including Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Virgin and Associated Newspapers.
John Hutt, said of Mr Spalding: “We’re convinced he has the right mix of skills and experience in our core domestic and international markets to make a major impact on the group’s forward performance.
“His ambition for HTI will be instrumental in helping us achieve the next aggressive phase in our plans and his day-to-day leadership will allow me to focus on strategic opportunities for HTI Group while pursuing other business interests.”
Mr Spalding said: “HTI Group’s pedigree and potential make this an incredibly exciting time to be joining the business. As the UK’s largest independent player in its sector, the group has an enviable portfolio of brands, licenses and customers, supported by an incredible team and a truly global presence.
“I’m looking forward to working with that team as we continue our investment in our intellectual property, licensing programme and strategic customer partnerships around the world.”
HTI Group partners with major retailers and wholesalers in 75 countries including Carrefour in Europe and Walmart in North America and Canada. As well as its base in Fleetwood, it has operations in Hong Kong, Germany and China.
HTI develops a wide range of products across several ‘super’ categories, namely role-play, dolls’ prams, vehicles, bikes and scooters and pocket money. Its ranges include a mix of own label, in house brands such as Teamsterz, Smart and Cosy Village, as well as licensed brands including Peppa Pig, Tonka, Transformers, Barbie and Hello Kitty.
