Bentonville – – September 17, 2026 -- Traverse Group, a privately held retail group generating more than $1 billion in annual gross merchandise value, has launched ToyVerse, a new venture aimed at the global toy market. The Bentonville, Arkansas-based company is already the largest toy supplier by dollar share into the Club channel worldwide, a position built largely on its management of the Pokémon trading card program.
Traverse Group leverages existing retail relationships with Walmart, Sam's Club, Target and Costco Global
Traverse Group, co-founded by JD Hayes and Clint Lazenby, has appeared on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies for four consecutive years. Its existing infrastructure spans manufacturing, brand development, licensing, eCommerce, warehousing, fulfillment, logistics and supply chain execution, capabilities the company will now extend to its own toy brand rather than solely third-party programs.
Melbourne innovation hub will lead product design and licensing strategy
ToyVerse's product development, global brand strategy and licensing operations will be based in a newly established hub in Melbourne, Australia. Claire Carroll, previously SVP of Strategy at Toy Monster and Global Head of Girls Toys for Moose Toys and Disney ANZ, will head the unit.
Inaugural product line to debut at LA Fall Previews before Fall 2027 retail launch
ToyVerse plans to unveil its first product range this month at the Toy Industry Association's LA Fall Preview circuit, giving retail partners an early look ahead of a Fall 2027 shelf date. The launch lineup will cover five categories: Construction, Novelty, Plush, Craft and Collectibles. Additional licensing partnership announcements are expected in the coming months.