Mattel, Inc. is one of the world's leading toy and family entertainment companies, founded in 1945 by Harold 'Matt' Matson and Elliot Handler in a garage workshop in Southern California. The company's name combines the founders' names: Matt (Matson) and El (Elliot). Mattel is the creator and manufacturer of some of the most iconic toy brands in history, including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, American Girl, Thomas & Friends, UNO, and Matchbox. Barbie, created by Ruth Handler and launched in 1959, is the best-selling fashion doll of all time and experienced a massive cultural resurgence with the 2023 Barbie movie, which grossed over $1.4 billion worldwide. Hot Wheels, introduced in 1968, is the number one selling toy in the world, with over 8 billion cars produced. Mattel's Fisher-Price division is a leader in infant and preschool toys, while American Girl produces premium dolls and storytelling content for older children. The company has been transforming itself from a traditional toy manufacturer into an intellectual property-driven entertainment company, leveraging its portfolio of over 400 brands for film, television, digital gaming, and live experiences. Mattel operates in 35 countries and sells products in more than 150 nations. The company employs approximately 33,000 people worldwide and continues to invest in brand revitalization, sustainability, and digital innovation.
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