The newly formed Good Idea Global team has a combined total of 50 years in the toy industry. Co-Founders Luke Eddy, James Hunter and Audrey Hunter have partnered together to develop and manufacture toys with a view to selling globally.
The trio bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table along with a passion for the industry. James grew up in the industry (literally from birth) with his late father Jeff Hunter recently inducted in the Australian Toy Association Hall of Fame.
“I think of my dad every day, he lived by the mantra to always ‘have a go’ and I will certainly carry that with me in this new venture. I know he is riding with me and I am grateful for his wisdom, knowledge and global network which he has left with me” said James.
Audrey was born and raised in California and was VP of Product Development for Funrise Toys before moving to Melbourne and driving the International expansion of Hunter Products. Audrey then headed up the Product Development team at Toy Monster again helping to expand the firm Globally. Her American background and market knowledge will be critical for the fast growth of the startup company.
Luke cut his teeth as a commercial lawyer before transitioning across to the world of fashion, where he spent 10 years heading up the Asian Headquarters for an Australian fashion business in Hangzhou, China.
Upon returning home to Australia, Luke moved across to the toy industry, where he was appointed to the role of head of product at the ASX listed Funtastic. After 4 years, he pivoted to a role in a private equity firm for 1 year, but the fun of the toy industry lured him back, leading to a move to ToyMonster International as the global head of sourcing. Here he became a market leader in the impulse space, building brands that were sold into the largest toy retailers in over 50 countries.
“It is an industry we love due to its fast pace. We love watching new trends emerge and we will embrace new ways to market product. We are looking forward to building and developing meaningful programs with retailers” said Audrey Hunter President — Product Development.
The company will pride itself on being nimble, and listening to the needs of the customer. With the challenges of the global economy, Good Idea has the ability to work lean and hit sharp price points.
“We will look to provide value and deliver healthy margin to retailers in everything we do” said Luke Eddy President of Sourcing.
The trio have previously delivered and catered retail programs globally and with their experience and forward thinking innovation they are destined for big things. In a recent development, Good Idea has been appointed as Global Sales representative for locally based Hunter Leisure and will be showing a line of product in Los Angeles at the upcoming Fall Toy Previews in September in the 1960 E Grand Ave building.
To learn more contact Good Idea Global by visiting: www.goodideaglobal.com
This article originally appeared in Edition 11 of The Toy Universe Magazine
