Mr. Potato Head has spent most of his life hanging out with children. That got me thinking. Would the most famous celebrity spud be interested in some new adult friends? I contacted Hasbro, his creators, to see if this suggestion might appeal to them (or, in this case, maybe it’s appeel)…
Dear Mr. Potato Head Honcho:
Have you ever considered expanding your line of Mr. Potato Heads beyond potatoes? Growing up in a Jewish family, I always wished I could play — and pray — with a Mr. Matzo Ball Head. Add a cute little kippah, silk tallit and some snazzy tefillin accessories and Sabbath won’t ever be the same again! I bet it would also be real popular in Israel. Am I on to something here or just completely meshuga?
If this idea works, it could lead to an entire new Head family. Friends, relatives and colleagues of Mr. Potato Head could then include the likes of Mr. Head of State (politician), Mr. Grateful Dead Head (rock star) and one for the adult market, Mr. Gim E. Head (porn star). What do you think?
Using my head too!
Highlights from the response sent by Hasbro Consumer Affairs on behalf of Mr. Potato Head included…
As you can imagine, each year we receive many contacts and inquiries such as yours, and while we appreciate hearing from our friends and consumers, we must advise that we do not accept unsolicited submissions for review.
You may wish to seek entry to a company which has a submission policy different from ours, or else you may wish to contact a toy and game broker. Such a broker introduces and helps sell the concepts/prototypes or other inventions to the broker’s personal contacts at various toy and/or game manufacturers. While we cannot make a specific recommendation, or endorse any particular broker, attached is a list of names and addresses of toy brokers who have given their permission to release their names. We strongly urge you to contact the broker of your choice before submitting any samples or prototypes.
Alternatively, you might wish to contact the Toy Industry Association (contact information followed). They may be able to refer you to other brokers who are members of the TIA.
A very good way for you to get an inside look at our business would be to read The Toy and Game Inventor’s Handbook by Levy and Weingartner. This book contains valuable information about how to proceed professionally and with a greater chance of success.
Final Thoughts: Even though Hasbro didn’t accept my idea, they clearly went out of their way to provide useful information about selling a toy concept. Plus, if two guys named Levy and Weingartner don’t have the answers for launching a toy named Mr. Matzo Ball Head, who does?
If you’ve lost touch, here’s where you can reconnect with Mr. Potato Head. And if you’re toying around with an idea for a product, you might discover some new doors to knock on if you Write The Company.
