Fun New Vehicle from Step 2: Easy Turn Coupe

EasyRide

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Most parents today remember their own Cozy Coupe from Little Tikes. We’re always looking for variations on that classic first ride-in. Here’s a new vehicle in this category called the Easy Turn Coupe from Step 2.  Our testers loved the ease in which it moved. There is a third front wheel for added steering (always a plus). The cup holder got high marks.  There is a floor plate for younger kids– our only complaint is that if the intended rider is much younger, there should be a safety belt. Otherwise, this is a wonderful foot-powered vehicle.

 

What draws grown-ups to toys?

For me it was clearly a combo of  hating practicing asbestos litigation and my mother having a really great time writing about toys and play.  I left her after a segment she did at the Today Show to go back to my office and thought–that just seems like a better way to spend the day.  I’m always curious how other people find their way to the toy industry. It is a business — and not all warm and fuzzy as you might think–but still it is different.

So I started a series called Meet the Toymakers.  This gave me an opportunity to find out how other people joined the ranks of toy industry insiders.  And since most people seem to have a desire to also be in toys, I thought it would be interesting to hear how other people fulfilled their dreams.

This week- we have an interview with Robert Pasin of Radio Flyer.  Unlike most of the people I’ve  interviewed, Robert is third generation in his family’s toy business. That’s hard core and brings it’s own set of challenges even when you are in charge of an established and iconic American brand.

I also interview Chris and Will Haughey of TEGU.  These brothers both left their Wall Street jobs to start TEGU.  Besides making a lovely product (wooden blocks with built in magnets) they are also finding a way for their business to give back to the people of Honduras by creating jobs.

Both interviews are posted on our website at www.toyportfolio.com