Canal Toys has expanded its senior team with the appointment of Anthony Grimaud as UK CEO.

Working with Paul Clark, head of Canal Toys UK, the senior team will use their combined passion for toys and unrivalled experience to build their key brands in the UK market.

Bringing with him over twenty years’ experience in the toy industry, Anthony has an impressive background having worked at Tiger Electronics, Hasbro, Spinmaster and most recently as Global VP at HTI. Anthony, a French national, has lived in the UK for twenty-four years immersing himself in the European toy industry.

Patrick Krief, group CEO of Canal Toys, commented: “We are thrilled to have Anthony on board at Canal. He has a proven track record, extensive knowledge of the global retail environment and will undoubtedly accelerate our ambitious development plans for the UK market working with Paul Clark, who launched the UK business earlier this year. Anthony’s acumen and passion for the toy industry will be a great asset in delivering results and support to our retail partners.”

Anthony Grimaud commented: “I’m totally thrilled to be joining Canal Group at such an important time in the company’s development. Canal Toys has an impressive range of cool, innovative and unique product and brands which will bring some real excitement to the arts and craft category. I’m looking forward to working with our talented team and forging strong relationships with our UK retailers.”

Over the next few months Canal Toys will be launching a series of innovative new arts & crafts brands including Power Dough, So Glow DIY and Style 4 Ever.