Jay Foreman
About Jay Foreman
Jay Foreman is the Founder and CEO of Basic Fun!, a company he has led since 2009. He is recognized for his contributions to the toy industry, including the development of popular toy lines and his role as chairman of the Toy Association’s trade show committee.
Work at Basic Fun!
Jay Foreman has served as the Founder and CEO of Basic Fun! since 2009. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its portfolio and acquired several notable brands, including K'NEX and Playhut in 2018. Basic Fun! is recognized for its innovative approach to toy development and marketing. Foreman oversees operations from multiple locations, including Boca Raton, Florida, Hong Kong, London, and Toronto. His role involves strategic planning and management of the company's growth in the competitive toy industry.
Education and Expertise
Jay Foreman holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communications and Marketing from Rider University. He has also studied at Boston College and Pine Crest School. Additionally, Foreman attributes part of his business acumen to his experiences at the School of Hard Knocks, where he gained practical knowledge in business operations. His educational background supports his expertise in marketing and communication within the toy industry.
Background
Jay Foreman has a diverse background in the toy industry, beginning his career at Galoob Toys, where he created the Spice Girls doll line in 1997. He co-founded Play Along Toys and played a significant role in the successful re-launches of iconic brands such as Care Bears and Cabbage Patch Kids. In 2009, he founded The Bridge Direct, which developed popular toy lines like Strawberry Shortcake and The Hobbit action figures. His extensive experience has positioned him as a key figure in the toy market.
Achievements
Jay Foreman has made significant contributions to the toy industry, including serving as chairman of the Toy Association’s trade show committee, where he manages major events like the New York Toy Fair. He has been featured in prominent publications such as The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post, highlighting his influence and insights in the industry. Foreman also publishes a well-regarded blog focused on the toy sector, further establishing his voice as a leading expert.
Media Presence
Jay Foreman is frequently sought after as a leading voice in the toy industry, making appearances on major news outlets such as CNBC, Fox Business, and NBC News. His insights and commentary on industry trends and developments have made him a recognizable figure in media discussions related to toys and childhood entertainment.