Barbie maker Mattel reports big loss on weak sales

NEW YORK, USA – Mattel reported a big 1st quarter loss amid falling sales of most of its toys as the coronavirus roiled operations and shuttered many retail outlets.

The toy company, maker of Barbie and Thomas & Friends, suffered a $210.7-million loss in the 3-month period when revenues fell 13.8% to $594.1 million.

Mattel also joined the plethora of large companies to withdraw annual financial forecasts in the wake of the coronavirus and the uncertain timing on an economic rebound.

The company said its manufacturing and distribution capacity had been “largely restored,” including in toy-producing center China, where some activity had been frozen earlier in the year during that country’s coronavirus outbreak.

Sales of Hot Wheels toys rose 1%, but all other major products fell. This included dolls, which is home to Barbie and American Girl, where sales fell 11%.

Sales at Fisher-Price plunged 28%.

Despite weakness expected to continue into the 2nd quarter, “we are planning for increased demand for our products in expectation of a much-improved 2nd half and holiday season,” said chief executive Ynon Kreiz.

Shares of Mattel fell 8.2% to $7.90 in after-hours trading. – Rappler.com