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Hasbro Acquires the Power Rangers Brand for $522 Million

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“Power Rangers is an iconic brand built on a heritage of great storytelling and merchandising with tremendous upside potential when fully executed across Hasbro’s Brand Blueprint,” said Brian Goldner, Hasbro’s chairman and chief executive officer. “Shortly after entering into our licensing arrangement, it became clear that now was the time to begin investing in unlocking Power Rangers’ full potential. We see significant opportunity for Power Rangers across our entire Brand Blueprint, including toys and games, consumer products, digital gaming and entertainment, as well as geographically throughout our global retail footprint. We couldn’t be more pleased that Haim Saban will continue in a consulting role to further guide our development of this valuable property for the next generation of Power Rangers fans.”

“25 years after launching Power Rangers, I believe the future for this brand has never been greater,” said Haim Saban, founder of Saban Brands and creator of Power Rangers. “Hasbro’s leadership in innovation, storytelling and brand stewardship make it the perfect company to further develop the global reach and appeal of the Power Rangers property. I look forward to working with Brian and the team in the years to come.”

Created by Haim Saban and launched in 1993, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers quickly became a pop culture phenomenon. Today, Power Rangers is one of the longest running kids’ live-action series in television history with nearly 900 episodes produced to date. The TV series, currently in its 25th season with Power Rangers Super Ninja Steel, and feature films, including 2017’s movie with Lionsgate, follows the adventures of a group of ordinary teens who morph into superheroes and save the world from evil. Saban’s Power Rangers currently airs in 150 markets around the world and is translated into numerous languages.

The first set of products from Hasbro will be available in spring 2019.

Transaction Details
Hasbro has previously paid Saban Brands$22.25 million pursuant to the Power Rangers master toy license agreement, announced by the parties in February of 2018, that was scheduled to begin in 2019. Those amounts are being credited against the purchase price. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, Hasbro will pay an additional $229.75 million in cash and will issue $270 million worth of Hasbro common stock for the Power Rangers brand and several other entertainment brands. The agreement includes all related intellectual property, category rights and content libraries owned by Saban Properties and its affiliates. The transaction is subject to a number of customary closing conditions, including obtaining required regulatory approvals, and is expected to close during the second quarter of 2018.

The transaction, including intangible amortization expense, is not expected to have a material impact on Hasbro’s 2018 results of operations.

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is serving as financial advisor to Hasbro.

About Hasbro

Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to Creating the World's Best Play Experiences. From toys and games to television, movies, digital gaming and consumer products, Hasbro offers a variety of ways for audiences to experience its iconic brands, including NERF, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, BABY ALIVE and MAGIC: THE GATHERING, as well as premier partner brands. Through its entertainment labels, Allspark Pictures and Allspark Animation, the Company is building its brands globally through great storytelling and content on all screens. Hasbro is committed to making the world a better place for children and their families through corporate social responsibility and philanthropy. Hasbro ranked No. 1 on the 2017 100 Best Corporate Citizens list by CR Magazine, and has been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by Ethisphere Institute for the past seven years. Learn more at www.hasbro.com, and follow us on Twitter (@Hasbro & @HasbroNews) and Instagram (@Hasbro).

© 2018 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

About Saban’s Power Rangers

Saban’s Power Rangers franchise is the brainchild of Haim Saban, creator and producer of the original, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers hit series that launched in 1993. Following its introduction, “Power Rangers” quickly became the most-watched television program in the United States and remains one of the top-rated and longest running kids live-action series in television history. The series, currently in its 25thseason, follows the adventures of a group of ordinary teens who morph into superheroes and save the world from evil. It is seen in more than 150 markets, translated into numerous languages and a favorite on many key international children’s programming blocks around the world. For more information, visit www.powerrangers.com.

About Saban Brands

Formed in 2010 as an affiliate of Saban Capital Group, Saban Brands acquires, develops and manages a world-class portfolio of entertainment properties. Saban Brands applies a global 360-degree management approach to growing and monetizing its brands through content, digital, marketing, distribution, licensing and retail in markets worldwide. Saban Brands’ growing entertainment portfolio of brands includes Power Rangers, Treehouse Detectives, Julius Jr., Popples, Glitter Force, and Cirque du Soleil Junior – Luna Petunia, amongst many others. Saban Brands is headquartered in Los Angeles with a global network of offices. For more information, visit www.sabanbrands.com.

Certain statements in this release contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include expectations concerning Hasbro’s potential performance in the future, its ability to achieve its financial and business goals and the expected timing for closing this transaction and may be identified by the use of forward-looking words or phrases. Hasbro's actual actions or results may differ materially from those expected or anticipated in the forward-looking statements due to both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Specific factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: (i) the company’s ability to successfully develop and commercialize the brands it is acquiring, (ii) the ability to receive required regulatory approvals in a timely manner, and (iii) other risks and uncertainties as may be detailed from time to time in the Company's public announcements and Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings. Hasbro undertakes no obligation to make any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this release or to update them to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

Hasbro Reports First Quarter 2018 Financial Results

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• First quarter 2018 revenues decreased to $716.3 million due to the liquidation of Toys“R”Us and retail inventory overhang, primarily in Europe;
  
• Reported net loss of $112.5 million or $0.90 per diluted share, includes after-tax expenses of $61.4 million associated with Toys“R”Us; $15.7 million of severance costs associated with an acceleration of the Company’s ongoing commercial organization transformation; and a net charge of $47.8 million related to U.S. tax reform (the “Non-GAAP Adjustments”);
  
• Adjusted net earnings of $12.4 million or $0.10 per diluted share;
  
• Ended the quarter with $1.6 billion in cash and returned $109.6 million to shareholders; $70.8 million in dividends and $38.8 million in share repurchases.

PAWTUCKET, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Apr. 23, 2018-- Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) today reported financial results for the first quarter 2018. Net revenues for the first quarter 2018 decreased 16% to $716.3 million versus $849.7 million in 2017. The decrease in revenues is the result of the liquidation of Toys“R”Us in the U.S. and U.K., along with uncertainty in its other operations, as well as retail inventory overhang, primarily in Europe.

Net loss for the first quarter 2018 was $112.5 million, or $0.90 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $68.6 million, or $0.54 per diluted share, in 2017. Excluding the Non-GAAP Adjustments noted above, adjusted net earnings for the quarter were $12.4 million or $0.10 per diluted share. The first quarter 2018 was a 13-week period versus the first quarter 2017 which was a 14-week period.

“The Hasbro teams executed extremely well during a challenging first quarter,” said Brian Goldner, Hasbro’s chairman and chief executive officer. “Hasbro brands are resonating with consumers and consumer takeaway is positive. However, as we discussed earlier in the year, our first quarter was expected to be difficult. We are working to put the near-term disruption from Toys“R”Us behind us. Our global retailers view this as an opportunity in a key consumer category and are partnering with Hasbro to develop growth plans for our brands. New Hasbro initiatives shipping in this quarter and beyond won’t be caught up in the Toys“R”Us liquidation process. With the rapid shift to a converged retail environment, we accelerated plans we originally had spread throughout the year to transform our commercial organization on a more immediate basis.”

“Our underlying financial strength is sound, and despite the near-term challenges associated with a major customer liquidation, Hasbro is positioned to manage a challenging 2018 and drive growth in 2019 and beyond,” said Deborah Thomas, Hasbro’s chief financial officer. “The quarter’s revenue and profits were negatively impacted by lower revenues and higher expenses associated with events that do not reflect the health of our underlying business. We remain on track to meet our goal of generating $600 to $700 million in operating cash flow this year while investing to build our brands, transform our organization and return cash to shareholders.”

First Quarter 2018 Major Segment Performance



Net Revenues
($ Millions)


Operating Profit (Loss)
($ Millions)


Adjusted Operating
Profit (Loss) ($M)
Q1 2018 Q1 2017 % Change Q1 2018 Q1 2017 Q1 2018
U.S. and Canada $364.3 $451.6 -19% $(23.4) $64.8 $28.9
International $287.9 $345.3 -17% $(56.1) $0.5 $(44.9)
Entertainment and Licensing $64.0 $52.7 +21% $13.9 $11.3 $13.9


First quarter 2018 U.S. and Canada segment net revenues decreased 19% to $364.3 million compared to $451.6 million in 2017. The segment reported an operating loss of $23.4 million compared to an operating profit of $64.8 million in 2017. The segment’s first quarter performance reflected the Toys“R”Us liquidation both in lower revenues and $52.3 million of pre-tax expenses, primarily bad debt.

First quarter 2018 International segment net revenues were $287.9 million compared to $345.3 million in 2017. Revenues in the segment were negatively impacted by efforts to clear excess inventory in Europe, as well as the Toys“R”Us U.K. liquidation and uncertainty in its other international operations. International segment revenues include a favorable $19.5 million impact of foreign exchange. On a regional basis, Europe net revenues decreased 28%, Latin America increased 2% and Asia Pacific increased 3%. Emerging markets net revenues decreased 5% in the quarter. The International segment reported an operating loss of $56.1 million compared to an operating profit of $0.5 million in 2017. The decline in operating profit reflects lower revenues and includes $11.2 million of pre-tax expense associated with Toys“R”Us.

Entertainment and Licensing segment net revenues increased 21% to $64.0 million compared to $52.7 million in 2017. Operating profit increased 23% to $13.9 million, or 21.7% of net revenues, compared to $11.3 million, or 21.5% of net revenues, in 2017. Revenue growth was driven by consumer products and digital gaming. During the quarter, the Company adopted ASC 606 Revenue from Contracts with Customers which favorably impacted the timing of revenue recognition in the quarter.

Additional pre-tax expense of $7.0 million associated with Toys“R”Us and $17.3 million from accelerating the commercial organization transformation are included in the Corporate and Eliminations segment.

First Quarter 2018 Brand Portfolio Performance

Net Revenues ($ Millions)
Q1 2018 Q1 2017 % Change
Franchise Brands $361.7 $449.2 -19%
Partner Brands $200.6 $213.0 -6%
Hasbro Gaming* $105.2 $135.8 -22%
Emerging Brands $48.8 $51.8 -6%

*Hasbro’s total gaming category, including all gaming revenue, most notably MAGIC: THE GATHERING and MONOPOLY, which are included in Franchise Brands in the table above, totaled $203.5 million for the first quarter 2018, down 20%, versus $253.3 million for the first quarter 2017. Hasbro believes its gaming portfolio is a competitive differentiator and views it in its entirety.

First quarter 2018 revenues were negatively impacted across all Brand Portfolio categories by the liquidation of Toys“R”Us in the U.S. and U.K., along with uncertainty in its other operations, as well as retail inventory overhang, primarily in Europe.

First quarter 2018 Franchise Brand revenues decreased 19% to $361.7 million. Growth in MONOPOLY was offset by declines in all other Franchise Brands in the quarter. Franchise Brand revenues grew in the Entertainment and Licensing segment and declined in the U.S. and Canada and International segments.

Partner Brand revenues declined 6% to $200.6 million. Revenue growth in MARVEL and BEYBLADE was more than offset by declines in other Partner Brands. Partner Brand revenues increased slightly in the U.S. and Canada segment, but declined in the International segment.

Hasbro Gaming revenue decreased 22% to $105.2 million. Revenue gains in DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS, JENGA and several new game launches were offset by declines in other properties. Hasbro’s total gaming category was down 20% to $203.5 million. Hasbro Gaming revenues declined in all three major operating segments.

Emerging Brands revenue declined 6% to $48.8 million. Revenue increases from STRETCH ARMSTRONG and LITTLEST PET SHOP products were offset by declines in other Emerging Brands. Emerging Brands revenues grew in the Entertainment and Licensing segment and declined in the U.S. and Canada and International segments.

Dividend and Share Repurchase

The Company paid $70.8 million in cash dividends to shareholders during the first quarter 2018. The next quarterly cash dividend payment of $0.63 per common share is scheduled for May 15, 2018 to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 1, 2018.

During the first quarter, Hasbro repurchased 427.1 thousand shares of common stock at a total cost of $38.8 million and an average price of $90.81 per share. At quarter-end, $139.2 million remained available in the current share repurchase authorization.

Non-GAAP Adjustments

During the first quarter, the Company recorded lower revenues in part due to the loss of revenues from Toys“R”Us in the U.S. and Europe, as a result of the related liquidations as well as uncertainty in the other Toys“R”Us operations. In association with this, the Company recorded after-tax expenses of $61.4 million, primarily bad debt.

Hasbro also recorded $15.7 million of after tax expense associated with accelerating its commercial organization transformation. Over the past several years, the Company has invested in developing an omni-channel retail presence, and in 2018 is bringing onboard new skill sets and talent to lead in today’s converged retail environment. These actions were initially planned to occur over time, commencing later this year. Given the current retail environment the Company chose to accelerate its actions.

In 2017, the Company recognized a provisional net charge of $296.5 million from the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Additional changes and guidance issued since year end resulted in a first quarter 2018 charge of $47.8 million, or $0.38 per diluted share. This charge is related to an increase in the Company’s repatriation tax liability and a reversal of tax benefits no longer permitted under the new guidance. The Company expects its full-year underlying tax rate to be at the high end of its previously projected range of 15% to 17%.

Conference Call Webcast

Hasbro will webcast its first quarter 2018 earnings conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time today. To listen to the live webcast and access the accompanying presentation slides, please go to http://investor.hasbro.com. The replay of the call will be available on Hasbro’s web site approximately 2 hours following completion of the call.

About Hasbro: Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to Creating the World's Best Play Experiences. From toys and games to television, movies, digital gaming and consumer products, Hasbro offers a variety of ways for audiences to experience its iconic brands, including NERF, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, BABY ALIVE and MAGIC: THE GATHERING, as well as premier partner brands. Through its entertainment labels, Allspark Pictures and Allspark Animation, the Company is building its brands globally through great storytelling and content on all screens. Hasbro is committed to making the world a better place for children and their families through corporate social responsibility and philanthropy. Hasbro ranked No. 1 on the 2017 100 Best Corporate Citizens list by CR Magazine, and has been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by Ethisphere Institute for the past seven years. Learn more at www.hasbro.com, and follow us on Twitter (@Hasbro & @HasbroNews) and Instagram (@Hasbro).

© 2018 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Certain statements in this release contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include expectations concerning the Company’s potential performance in the future and the Company’s ability to achieve its financial and business goals and may be identified by the use of forward-looking words or phrases. The Company's actual actions or results may differ materially from those expected or anticipated in the forward-looking statements due to both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Specific factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: (i) the Company's ability to design, develop, produce, manufacture, source and ship products on a timely and cost-effective basis, as well as interest in and purchase of those products by retail customers and consumers in quantities and at prices that will be sufficient to recover the Company’s costs and earn a profit; (ii) downturns in economic conditions impacting one or more of the markets in which the Company sells products, such as the economic downturns which impacted the United Kingdom and Brazil in 2017, which can negatively impact the Company’s retail customers and consumers, and which can result in lower employment levels, lower consumer disposable income, lower retailer inventories and lower spending, including lower spending on purchases of the Company’s products; (iii) other factors which can lower discretionary consumer spending, such as higher costs for fuel and food, drops in the value of homes or other consumer assets, and high levels of consumer debt; (iv) consumer interest in entertainment properties, such as motion pictures, for which the Company is developing and marketing products, and the ability to drive sales of products associated with such entertainment properties, (v) potential difficulties or delays the Company may experience in implementing cost savings and efficiency enhancing initiatives; (vi) other economic and public health conditions or regulatory changes in the markets in which the Company and its customers and suppliers operate which could create delays or increase the Company’s costs, such as higher commodity prices, labor costs or transportation costs, or outbreaks of disease; (vii) currency fluctuations, including movements in foreign exchange rates, which can lower the Company’s net revenues and earnings, and significantly impact the Company’s costs; (viii) the concentration of the Company's customers, potentially increasing the negative impact to the Company of difficulties experienced by any of the Company’s customers or changes in their purchasing or selling patterns; (ix) consumer interest in and acceptance of the Discovery Family Channel, and programming created by Hasbro Studios, and other factors impacting the financial performance of the network and Hasbro Studios; (x) the inventory policies of the Company’s retail customers, including retailers’ potential decisions to lower their inventories, even if it results in lost sales, as well as the concentration of the Company's revenues in the second half and fourth quarter of the year, which coupled with reliance by retailers on quick response inventory management techniques increases the risk of underproduction of popular items, overproduction of less popular items and failure to achieve compressed shipping schedules; (xi) delays, increased costs or difficulties associated with any of our or our partners’ planned digital applications or media initiatives; (xii) work disruptions, which may impact the Company's ability to manufacture or deliver product in a timely and cost-effective manner; (xiii) the bankruptcy or other lack of success of one of the Company's significant retailers, such as the bankruptcy of Toys“R”Us in the United States and Canada in the fourth quarter of 2017 and the beginning of liquidation of those businesses, as well as economic difficulty of Toys“R”Us in other markets, which could negatively impact the Company's revenues or bad debt exposure; (xiv) the impact of competition on revenues, margins and other aspects of the Company's business, including the ability to offer Company products which consumers choose to buy instead of competitive products, the ability to secure, maintain and renew popular licenses and the ability to attract and retain talented employees; (xv) concentration of manufacturing for many of the Company’s products in the People’s Republic of China and the associated impact to the Company of social, economic or public health conditions and other factors affecting China, the movement of products into and out of China, the cost of producing products in China and exporting them to other countries, including without limitation, the potential application of tariffs to products the Company purchases from vendors in China, which would significantly increase the price of the Company’s products and harm sales; (xvi) the risk of product recalls or product liability suits and costs associated with product safety regulations; (xvii) the impact of other market conditions, third party actions or approvals and competition which could reduce demand for the Company’s products or delay or increase the cost of implementation of the Company's programs or alter the Company's actions and reduce actual results; (xviii) changes in tax laws or regulations, or the interpretation and application of such laws and regulations, such as what may occur as the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is interpreted and applied, which may cause the Company to alter tax reserves or make other changes which significantly impact its reported financial results; (xix) the impact of litigation or arbitration decisions or settlement actions; and (xx) other risks and uncertainties as may be detailed from time to time in the Company's public announcements and Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings. The Company undertakes no obligation to make any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this release or to update them to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

This press release includes non-GAAP financial measures as defined under SEC rules, specifically Adjusted net earnings and adjusted earnings per diluted share, excluding the impact of charges associated with the Toys“R”Us liquidation; severance costs and U.S. tax reform in the first quarter of 2018, as well as adjusted operating profit absent the impact of the charges associated with the Toys“R”Us liquidation and severance costs. Also included in the financial tables attached to this release are the non-GAAP financial measures of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA. EBITDA represents net earnings attributable to Hasbro, Inc. excluding interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA also excludes the impact of charges associated with the Toys“R”Us liquidation and severance costs in the first quarter of 2018. As required by SEC rules, we have provided reconciliation on the attached schedule of these measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Management believes that Adjusted net earnings, Adjusted earnings per diluted share and adjusted operating profit absent the impact of charges associated with the Toys“R”Us liquidation and severance costs in the first quarter of 2018 provides investors with an understanding of the underlying performance of the Company’s business absent these unusual events. Management believes that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are appropriate measures for evaluating the operating performance of the Company because they reflect the resources available for strategic opportunities including, among others, to invest in the business, strengthen the balance sheet and make strategic acquisitions. These non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, or superior to, net earnings or other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP as more fully discussed in the Company's financial statements and filings with the SEC. As used herein, "GAAP" refers to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

HAS-E

Hasbro Reports Full-Year and Fourth Quarter 2017 Financial Results

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Board of Directors Increases Quarterly Dividend 11%, or $0.06 per share, to $0.63 per share

Full-Year 2017

2017 full-year net revenues of $5.21 billion increased 4%, including a favorable $79.2 million impact of foreign exchange; Operating profit margin of 15.6%;
2017 revenues grew in all major operating segments: 5% in the U.S. and Canada segment; 2% in the International segment; and 8% in the Entertainment and Licensing segment;
Franchise Brand revenues increased 10%; Hasbro Gaming revenues up 10%; Emerging Brands grew 2%; Partner Brands declined 10%;
U.S. tax reform, passed in December 2017, resulted in a $296.5 million net charge, or $2.33 per diluted share;
Adjusted net earnings, excluding the impact of U.S. tax reform, were $693.1 million or $5.46 per diluted share; Reported net earnings of $396.6 million or $3.12 per diluted share;
$724.4 million in operating cash flow generated during the year; Year-end cash and cash equivalents of $1.58 billion;
Company returned $427.0 million to shareholders in 2017; $277.0 million in dividends and $150.0 million in share repurchases.

Fourth Quarter 2017

Fourth Quarter net revenues decreased 2% to $1.60 billion, including a favorable $44.3 million impact of foreign exchange; Operating profit margin of 17.0%;
U.S. tax reform resulted in a $296.5 million net charge, or $2.35 per diluted share;
Adjusted net earnings, excluding the impact of U.S. tax reform, were $291.2 million or $2.30 per diluted share; Reported net loss of $5.3 million, or $0.04 per diluted share;



PAWTUCKET, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 7, 2018-- Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) today reported financial results for the full-year and fourth quarter 2017. Net revenues for the full-year 2017 increased 4% to $5.21 billion versus $5.02 billion in 2016. 2017 net revenues include a favorable $79.2 million impact from foreign exchange.

As reported net earnings for the full-year 2017 of $396.6 million, or $3.12 per diluted share, compared to $551.4 million, or $4.34 per diluted share in 2016. Adjusted 2017 net earnings were $693.1 million, or $5.46 per diluted share, excluding a $296.5 million, or $2.33 per diluted share, impact from U.S. tax reform. Adjusted net earnings for the full-year 2016 were $566.1 million, or $4.46 per diluted share, excluding a post-tax $14.7 million, or $0.12 per diluted share, non-cash fourth quarter 2016 goodwill impairment charge related to Backflip Studios.

In December 2017, the U.S. enacted the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that provided significant changes to the U.S. tax code, including a one-time repatriation tax payable over eight years. As a result of the Act, the Company recognized a net charge of $296.5 million. Given the significant complexities associated with the changes in the U.S. tax code, the estimated financial impact for the fourth-quarter and full year 2017 are provisional and subject to further analysis which could result in changes to this estimate during 2018 as further guidance is issued.

2017 net earnings also include a $0.25 per diluted share benefit versus full-year 2016 from the adoption of FASB ASU No. 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting.

“Hasbro’s global team’s execution of our Brand Blueprint drove revenue gains in Franchise Brands, Hasbro Gaming and Emerging Brands, including immersive brand experiences across consumer products and digital gaming,” said Brian Goldner, Hasbro’s chairman and chief executive officer. “Our strong performance ranked Hasbro #1 across the G11 markets for the full-year 20171. In the fourth quarter, Hasbro Franchise Brand revenues increased 11%. However, overall consumer demand slowed in November and December both for the industry and for Hasbro. A decline in Partner Brands and Europe revenues resulted in us not meeting our fourth quarter revenue expectations. Looking ahead, our innovative lines are supported by robust storytelling and digital initiatives that position us well for 2018 and beyond.”

“Over the past five years, we added over $1 billion in revenues to our top line, growing revenues four consecutive years, while meaningfully increasing operating profit, net earnings and generating significant cash flow,” said Deborah Thomas, Hasbro’s chief financial officer. “Hasbro is in a strong financial position with the cash and profitability to invest in growing our business for the long term. Our team’s excellent job of understanding and assessing the global tax environment and managing associated risks contributed to strong underlying net earnings growth. In addition, our 2017 year-end results include an estimate for the expense associated with U.S. tax reform. We expect an on-going benefit to our tax rate in future periods and will discuss this further at our Toy Fair Investor Event.”

Fourth Quarter 2017 Financial Results

Fourth quarter 2017 net revenues of $1.60 billion compared to $1.63 billion in 2016. 2017 net revenues include a favorable $44.3 million from foreign exchange.

As reported net loss for the fourth quarter 2017 totaled $5.3 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $192.7 million, or $1.52 per diluted share in 2016. Fourth quarter 2017 net earnings include a $0.09 per diluted share benefit versus fourth quarter 2016 from the adoption of FASB ASU No. 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. Adjusted net earnings for the fourth quarter 2017 were $291.2 million, or $2.30 per diluted share, excluding $296.5 million or $2.35 per diluted share, from U.S. tax reform. Adjusted net earnings for the fourth quarter 2016 were $207.4 million, or $1.64 per diluted share, excluding a post-tax $14.7 million, or $0.12 per diluted share, non-cash fourth quarter 2016 goodwill impairment charge related to Backflip Studios.

Full-Year 2017 Major Segment Performance

Net Revenues ($ Millions) Operating Profit ($ Millions)
FY 2017 FY 2016 % Change FY 2017 FY 2016 % Change
U.S. and Canada $2,690.5 $2,559.9 +5% $509.9 $522.3 -2%
International $2,233.6 $2,194.7 +2% $228.7 $294.5 -22%
Entertainment and Licensing $285.6 $265.2 +8% $96.4 $49.9 +93%


Note: Full-year 2016 Entertainment and Licensing segment operating profit includes a pre-tax $32.9 million fourth quarter 2016 non-cash goodwill impairment charge. The impact of that charge is outlined in the attached schedule “Net Earnings and Earnings per Share Excluding the Impact of Tax Reform and Goodwill Impairment.”

Full-year 2017 U.S. and Canada segment net revenues increased 5% to $2.69 billion compared to $2.56 billion in 2016. The U.S. and Canada segment operating profit declined 2% to $509.9 million, or 19.0% of net revenues, compared to $522.3 million, or 20.4% of net revenues in 2016, primarily driven by increased advertising as well as higher bad debt expense related to the Toys“R”Us bankruptcy filing in the third quarter of 2017.

Full-year International segment net revenues increased 2% to $2.23 billion compared to $2.19 billion in 2016. Full-year 2017 International segment revenues include a favorable $75.3 million impact of foreign exchange. On a regional basis, Europe net revenues decreased 2%, Latin America increased 5% and Asia Pacific increased 12%. Emerging markets net revenues increased 5% in the year. International segment operating profit decreased 22% to $228.7 million, or 10.2% of net revenues, compared to $294.5 million, or 13.4% of net revenues in 2016. The decline in operating profit was driven by higher sales allowances and unfavorable product mix, as well as higher advertising costs.

Entertainment and Licensing segment net revenues increased 8% to $285.6 million compared to $265.2 million in 2016. Full-year gains were driven by growth in consumer products and digital gaming, as well as the addition of Boulder Media. Operating profit was $96.4 million, or 33.8% of net revenues, compared to $49.9 million, or 18.8% of net revenues, in 2016. 2016 adjusted operating profit was $82.7 million, or 31.2% of net revenues, excluding a pre-tax $32.9 million non-cash fourth quarter 2016 goodwill impairment charge related to Backflip Studios.

Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2017 Brand Portfolio Performance

Net Revenues ($ Millions)
Q4 2017 Q4 2016 % Change FY 2017 FY 2016 % Change
Franchise Brands $764.2 $685.6 +11% $2,568.0 $2,327.7 +10%
Partner Brands $342.9 $433.7 -21% $1,271.6 $1,412.8 -10%
Hasbro Gaming* $343.3 $356.9 -4% $893.0 $813.4 +10%
Emerging Brands $145.7 $153.7 -5% $477.2 $466.0 +2%


*Hasbro’s total gaming category, including all gaming revenue, most notably MAGIC: THE GATHERING and MONOPOLY, which are included in Franchise Brands in the table above, totaled $546.4 million for the fourth quarter 2017, up 5%, versus $518.7 million in the fourth quarter 2016 and up 8% to $1,497.8 million for full-year 2017 versus $1,387.1 million for full-year 2016. Hasbro believes its gaming portfolio is a competitive differentiator and views it in its entirety.

Full-year 2017 Franchise Brand net revenues increased 10% to $2.57 billion driven by revenue growth in TRANSFORMERS, NERF, MONOPOLY and MY LITTLE PONY. Franchise Brand revenue grew in all three major operating segments.

Partner Brand net revenues decreased 10% to $1.27 billion. An increase in BEYBLADE, MARVEL and SESAME STREET revenues was more than offset by a revenue decline in STAR WARS and to a lesser extent declines in YO-KAI WATCH and DISNEY FROZEN. Partner Brand revenues decreased in the U.S. and Canada and International segments.

Hasbro Gaming net revenues grew 10% to $893.0 million. Hasbro’s diverse gaming portfolio includes a broad spectrum of gaming experiences from face-to-face gaming, social gaming and digital gaming. New social games, such as SPEAK OUT, TOILET TROUBLE and FANTASTIC GYMNASTICS, were among many which contributed to growth. In addition, several other gaming brands grew, including DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, the launch of DROPMIX and growth in digital gaming. Hasbro Gaming net revenues grew in the U.S. and Canada and International segments. Hasbro’s total gaming category grew 8% to $1.50 billion, including revenue growth from MONOPOLY.

Emerging Brands net revenues increased 2% to $477.2 million, behind strong growth in BABY ALIVE and FURREAL FRIENDS. Emerging Brand net revenues grew in the U.S. and Canada segment.

Dividend and Share Repurchase

The Company paid $277.0 million in cash dividends to shareholders during 2017. Hasbro’s Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.63 per common share. This represents an increase of $0.06 per share, or 11%, from the previous quarterly dividend of $0.57 per common share. The dividend will be payable on May 15, 2018 to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 1, 2018.

For the full-year 2017, Hasbro repurchased 1.58 million shares of common stock at a total cost of $150.0 million and an average price of $94.74 per share. At year end, $178.0 million remained available in the current share repurchase authorization.

Conference Call Webcast

Hasbro will webcast its fourth quarter and full-year 2017 earnings conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time today. To listen to the live webcast and access the accompanying presentation slides, please go to http://investor.hasbro.com. The replay of the call will be available on Hasbro’s web site approximately 2 hours following completion of the call.

About Hasbro

Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to Creating the World's Best Play Experiences. From toys and games to television, movies, digital gaming and consumer products, Hasbro offers a variety of ways for audiences to experience its iconic brands, including NERF, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, LITTLEST PET SHOP and MAGIC: THE GATHERING, as well as premier partner brands. Through Hasbro Studios and its film labels, Allspark Pictures and Allspark Animation, the Company is building its brands globally through great storytelling and content on all screens. Hasbro is committed to making the world a better place for children and their families through corporate social responsibility and philanthropy. Hasbro ranked No. 1 on the 2017 100 Best Corporate Citizens list by CR Magazine, and has been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by Ethisphere Institute for the past six years. Learn more at www.hasbro.com, and follow us on Twitter (@Hasbro & @HasbroNews) and Instagram (@Hasbro).

© 2018 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Certain statements in this release contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include expectations concerning the Company’s potential performance in the future and the Company’s ability to achieve its financial and business goals and may be identified by the use of forward-looking words or phrases. The Company's actual actions or results may differ materially from those expected or anticipated in the forward-looking statements due to both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Specific factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: (i) the Company's ability to design, develop, produce, manufacture, source and ship products on a timely and cost-effective basis, as well as interest in and purchase of those products by retail customers and consumers in quantities and at prices that will be sufficient to recover the Company’s costs and earn a profit; (ii) downturns in economic conditions impacting one or more of the markets in which the Company sells products, such as the economic downturns which impacted the United Kingdom and Brazil in 2017, which can negatively impact the Company’s retail customers and consumers, and which can result in lower employment levels, lower consumer disposable income, lower retailer inventories and lower spending, including lower spending on purchases of the Company’s products; (iii) other factors which can lower discretionary consumer spending, such as higher costs for fuel and food, drops in the value of homes or other consumer assets, and high levels of consumer debt; (iv) consumer interest in entertainment properties, such as motion pictures, for which the Company is developing and marketing products, and the ability to drive sales of products associated with such entertainment properties, (v) potential difficulties or delays the Company may experience in implementing cost savings and efficiency enhancing initiatives; (vi) other economic and public health conditions or regulatory changes in the markets in which the Company and its customers and suppliers operate which could create delays or increase the Company’s costs, such as higher commodity prices, labor costs or transportation costs, or outbreaks of disease; (vii) currency fluctuations, including movements in foreign exchange rates, which can lower the Company’s net revenues and earnings, and significantly impact the Company’s costs; (viii) the concentration of the Company's customers, potentially increasing the negative impact to the Company of difficulties experienced by any of the Company’s customers or changes in their purchasing or selling patterns; (ix) consumer interest in and acceptance of the Discovery Family Channel, and programming created by Hasbro Studios, and other factors impacting the financial performance of the network and Hasbro Studios; (x) the inventory policies of the Company’s retail customers, including retailers’ potential decisions to lower their inventories, even if it results in lost sales, as well as the concentration of the Company's revenues in the second half and fourth quarter of the year, which coupled with reliance by retailers on quick response inventory management techniques increases the risk of underproduction of popular items, overproduction of less popular items and failure to achieve compressed shipping schedules; (xi) delays, increased costs or difficulties associated with any of our or our partners’ planned digital applications or media initiatives; (xii) work disruptions, which may impact the Company's ability to manufacture or deliver product in a timely and cost-effective manner; (xiii) the bankruptcy or other lack of success of one of the Company's significant retailers, such as the bankruptcy of Toys “R” Us in the United States and Canada in the fourth quarter of 2017, which could negatively impact the Company's revenues or bad debt exposure; (xiv) the impact of competition on revenues, margins and other aspects of the Company's business, including the ability to offer Company products which consumers choose to buy instead of competitive products, the ability to secure, maintain and renew popular licenses and the ability to attract and retain talented employees; (xv) concentration of manufacturing for many of the Company’s products in the People’s Republic of China and the associated impact to the Company of social, economic or public health conditions and other factors affecting China, the movement of products into and out of China, the cost of producing products in China and exporting them to other countries; (xvi) the risk of product recalls or product liability suits and costs associated with product safety regulations; (xvii) the impact of other market conditions, third party actions or approvals and competition which could reduce demand for the Company’s products or delay or increase the cost of implementation of the Company's programs or alter the Company's actions and reduce actual results; (xviii) changes in tax laws or regulations, or the interpretation and application of such laws and regulations, such as what may occur as the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is interpreted and applied, which may cause the Company to alter tax reserves or make other changes which significantly impact its reported financial results; (xix) the impact of litigation or arbitration decisions or settlement actions; and (xx) other risks and uncertainties as may be detailed from time to time in the Company's public announcements and Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings. The Company undertakes no obligation to make any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this release or to update them to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

This press release includes non-GAAP financial measures as defined under SEC rules, specifically Adjusted net earnings and earnings per share, excluding the impact of U.S. tax reform in 2017 and the impact of a goodwill impairment charge associated with Backflip Studios in 2016, as well as adjusted operating profit absent the impact of the goodwill impairment charge. Also included in the financial tables attached to this release are the non-GAAP financial measures of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA. EBITDA represents net earnings attributable to Hasbro, Inc. excluding net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests, interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA also excludes the impact of re-measuring a liability as a result of U.S. tax reform in 2017 and the impact of a goodwill impairment charge in 2016. As required by SEC rules, we have provided reconciliation on the attached schedule of these measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Management believes that Adjusted net earnings, Adjusted earnings per share and adjusted operating profit absent the impact of U.S. tax reform and the goodwill impairment charge provides investors with an understanding of the underlying performance of the Company’s business absent these unusual events. Management believes that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are appropriate measures for evaluating the operating performance of the Company because they reflect the resources available for strategic opportunities including, among others, to invest in the business, strengthen the balance sheet and make strategic acquisitions. These non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, or superior to, net earnings or other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP as more fully discussed in the Company's financial statements and filings with the SEC. As used herein, "GAAP" refers to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

HAS-E

1 According to NPD and SIM

Hasbro Reports Revenue, Net Earnings and Earnings Per Share Growth for Third Quarter 2017

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Hasbro Reports Revenue, Net Earnings and Earnings Per Share Growth for Third Quarter 2017

Third quarter 2017 revenues increased 7% to $1.79 billion, including 7% revenue growth in the U.S. and Canada segment; 7% in the International segment, including a favorable $27.9 million in foreign exchange; and 4% in the Entertainment and Licensing segment;
Revenue growth in Franchise Brands, Hasbro Gaming and Emerging Brands;
Operating profit essentially flat at $360.9 million, or 20.1% of net revenues;
Net earnings increased 3% to $265.6 million, or $2.09 per diluted share; Reported net earnings include a $0.04 per diluted share benefit versus third quarter 2016 from the adoption of FASB ASU No. 2016-09;
Company returned $164.3 million to shareholders during the quarter: $71.4 million in dividends and $92.9 million in share repurchase;
Quarter-end cash and cash equivalents of $1.2 billion.

PAWTUCKET, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) today reported financial results for the third quarter 2017. Net revenues for the third quarter 2017 increased 7% to $1.79 billion versus $1.68 billion in 2016. Third quarter 2017 revenues include a favorable $29.6 million impact from foreign exchange.

Net earnings for the third quarter 2017 increased 3% to $265.6 million, or $2.09 per diluted share, compared to $257.8 million, or $2.03 per diluted share, in 2016. Reported net earnings include a $0.04 per diluted share benefit versus third quarter 2016 from the adoption of FASB ASU No. 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting.

"The global Hasbro team delivered another good quarter. Our Brand Blueprint strategy is successfully driving the business despite a challenging economic environment in the U.K. and Brazil, as well as a short-term retailer disruption," said Brian Goldner, Hasbro's chairman and chief executive officer. "As a result of the Toys"R"Us bankruptcy filing in the U.S. and Canada, there was a negative impact on our quarterly revenues and operating profit. However, our multi-platform content strategy, combined with an industry leading investment in innovation and an omni-channel commercial approach, is driving strong consumer takeaway heading into the holiday season as consumers engage with Hasbro brands across a multitude of experiences."

"The quarter presented several obstacles, but the team delivered with higher revenue and earnings, as well as executing nearly $93 million of share repurchases," said Deborah Thomas, Hasbro's chief financial officer. "We are well positioned for the holiday, including good quality inventory at Hasbro and at retail, backed by strong consumer momentum. We continue to work closely with Toys"R"Us as we head into the holiday period. Given our new view to the holiday based on Toys"R"Us and the economic outlook in certain markets, our updated expectation is fourth quarter revenues will increase in a range of 4% to 7% versus the fourth quarter 2016."

Third Quarter 2017 Major Segment Performance

Net Revenues ($ Millions) Operating Profit ($ Millions)
Q3 2017 Q3 2016 % Change Q3 2017 Q3 2016 % Change
U.S. and Canada $993.8 $932.8 +7% $217.3 $228.0 -5%
International $739.2 $690.7 +7% $132.0 $133.1 -1%
Entertainment and Licensing $58.4 $56.1 +4% $16.9 $14.1 +20%


Third quarter 2017 U.S. and Canada segment net revenues increased 7% to $993.8 million compared to $932.8 million in 2016. The segment was negatively impacted by the Toys"R"Us bankruptcy in the U.S. and Canada. In combination with a shift in product mix, this contributed to the 5% decline in the U.S. and Canada segment quarterly operating profit to $217.3 million, or 21.9% of net revenues, compared to $228.0 million, or 24.4% of net revenues, in 2016.

International segment net revenues increased 7% to $739.2 million compared to $690.7 million in 2016. Third quarter 2017 International segment revenues include a favorable $27.9 million impact of foreign exchange. On a regional basis, Europe revenues increased 3%, Latin America increased 13% and Asia Pacific increased 17%. Emerging markets revenues increased 8% in the quarter. International segment operating profit decreased $1.1 million to $132.0 million, or 17.9% of net revenues, compared to $133.1 million, or 19.3% of net revenues, in 2016.

Entertainment and Licensing segment net revenues grew 4% to $58.4 million compared to $56.1 million in 2016, behind higher consumer products and entertainment revenues. The Entertainment and Licensing segment operating profit increased 20%, to $16.9 million, or 28.9% of net revenues, compared to $14.1 million, or 25.1% of net revenues, in 2016.

Third Quarter 2017 Brand Portfolio Performance

Net Revenues ($ Millions)
Q3 2017 Q3 2016 % Change

Nine Months
2017


Nine Months
2016


%
Change
Franchise Brands $827.3 $773.4 +7% $1,803.8 $1,642.1 +10%
Partner Brands $485.7 $493.7 -2% $928.7 $979.1 -5%
Hasbro Gaming* $280.1 $229.9 +22% $549.7 $456.5 +20%
Emerging Brands $198.4 $182.8 +9% $331.4 $312.3 +6%


*Hasbro's total gaming category, including all gaming revenue, most notably MAGIC: THE GATHERING and MONOPOLY, which are included in Franchise Brands in the table above, totaled $424.8 million for the third quarter 2017, up 4%, versus $409.5 million in the third quarter 2016 and up 10% to $951.4 million for the nine months 2017 versus $868.4 million for the nine months 2016. Hasbro believes its gaming portfolio is a competitive differentiator and views it in its entirety.

Third quarter 2017 Franchise Brand revenues increased 7% to $827.3 million driven by revenue growth in NERF, TRANSFORMERS, MY LITTLE PONY and MONOPOLY. Franchise Brand revenue grew in all three major operating segments.

Partner Brand revenues decreased 2% to $485.7 million. BEYBLADE, STAR WARS, DISNEY DESCENDANTS and SESAME STREET posted revenue gains in the quarter. This was more than offset by declines in certain brands, including YO-KAI WATCH as well as DREAMWORKS' TROLLS which was down versus last year's launch of movie product. Partner Brand revenues increased in the U.S. and Canada segment and declined in the International segment.

Hasbro Gaming revenues grew 22% to $280.1 million driven by Hasbro's diverse gaming portfolio, including face-to-face and digital gaming. New social games drove significant growth, including SPEAK OUT and FANTASTIC GYMNASTICS along with revenue growth in several other games brands. Hasbro Gaming revenue grew in the U.S. and Canada and International segments. Hasbro's total gaming category grew 4% to $424.8 million, including revenue growth from MONOPOLY and an expected decline in MAGIC: THE GATHERING.

Emerging Brands revenue increased 9% to $198.3 million, driven primarily by growth in BABY ALIVE and FURREAL FRIENDS. Emerging Brand revenue grew in the U.S. and Canada and Entertainment and Licensing segments.

Dividend and Share Repurchase

The Company paid $71.4 million in cash dividends to shareholders during the third quarter 2017. The next quarterly cash dividend payment of $0.57 per common share is scheduled for November 15, 2017 to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 1, 2017.

During the third quarter, Hasbro repurchased 947,300 shares of common stock at a total cost of $92.9 million and an average price of $98.06 per share. Hasbro repurchased $111.5 million worth of common stock during the first three quarters of 2017. At quarter-end, $216.5 million remained available in the current share repurchase authorization.

Conference Call Webcast

Hasbro will webcast its third quarter 2017 earnings conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time today. To listen to the live webcast and access the accompanying presentation slides, please go to http://investor.hasbro.com. The replay of the call will be available on Hasbro's web site approximately 2 hours following completion of the call.

About Hasbro: Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to Creating the World's Best Play Experiences. From toys and games to television, movies, digital gaming and consumer products, Hasbro offers a variety of ways for audiences to experience its iconic brands, including NERF, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, LITTLEST PET SHOP and MAGIC: THE GATHERING. The Company's Hasbro Studios and its film label, Allspark Pictures, are building its brands globally through great storytelling and content on all screens. Through its commitment to corporate social responsibility and philanthropy, Hasbro is helping to make the world a better place for children and their families. Learn more at http://www.hasbro.com, and follow us on Twitter (@Hasbro & @HasbroNews) and Instagram (@Hasbro).

© 2017 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Certain statements in this release contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include expectations concerning the Company's potential performance in the future and the Company's ability to achieve its other financial and business goals and may be identified by the use of forward-looking words or phrases. The Company's actual actions or results may differ materially from those expected or anticipated in the forward-looking statements due to both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Specific factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: (i) the Company's ability to design, develop, produce, manufacture, source and ship products on a timely and cost-effective basis, as well as interest in and purchase of those products by retail customers and consumers in quantities and at prices that will be sufficient to profitably recover the Company's costs; (ii) downturns in economic conditions affecting the Company's markets which can negatively impact the Company's retail customers and consumers, and which can result in lower employment levels, lower consumer disposable income and spending, including lower spending on purchases of the Company's products; (iii) other factors which can lower discretionary consumer spending, such as higher costs for fuel and food, drops in the value of homes or other consumer assets, and high levels of consumer debt; (iv) potential difficulties or delays the Company may experience in implementing cost savings and efficiency enhancing initiatives; (v) other economic and public health conditions or regulatory changes in the markets in which the Company and its customers and suppliers operate which could create delays or increase the Company's costs, such as higher commodity prices, labor costs or transportation costs, or outbreaks of disease; (vi) currency fluctuations, including movements in foreign exchange rates, which can lower the Company's net revenues and earnings, and significantly impact the Company's costs; (vii) the concentration of the Company's customers, potentially increasing the negative impact to the Company of difficulties experienced by any of the Company's customers or changes in their purchasing or selling patterns; (viii) consumer interest in and acceptance of the Discovery Family Channel, and programming created by Hasbro Studios, and other factors impacting the financial performance of the network and Hasbro Studios; (ix) the inventory policies of the Company's retail customers, including retailers' potential decisions to lower their inventories, even if it results in lost sales, as well as the concentration of the Company's revenues in the second half and fourth quarter of the year, which coupled with reliance by retailers on quick response inventory management techniques increases the risk of underproduction of popular items, overproduction of less popular items and failure to achieve compressed shipping schedules; (x) delays, increased costs or difficulties associated with any of our or our partners' planned digital applications or media initiatives; (xi) work disruptions, which may impact the Company's ability to manufacture or deliver product in a timely and cost-effective manner; (xii) the bankruptcy or other lack of success of one of the Company's significant retailers which could negatively impact the Company's revenues or bad debt exposure; (xiii) the impact of competition on revenues, margins and other aspects of the Company's business, including the ability to offer Company products which consumers choose to buy instead of competitive products, the ability to secure, maintain and renew popular licenses and the ability to attract and retain talented employees; (xiv) concentration of manufacturing for many of the Company's products in the People's Republic of China and the associated impact to the Company of social, economic or public health conditions and other factors affecting China, the movement of products into and out of China, the cost of producing products in China and exporting them to other countries; (xv) the risk of product recalls or product liability suits and costs associated with product safety regulations; (xvi) the impact of other market conditions, third party actions or approvals and competition which could reduce demand for the Company's products or delay or increase the cost of implementation of the Company's programs or alter the Company's actions and reduce actual results; (xvii) the impact of litigation or arbitration decisions or settlement actions; and (xviii) other risks and uncertainties as may be detailed from time to time in the Company's public announcements and Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings. The Company undertakes no obligation to make any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this release or to update them to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

This press release includes a non-GAAP financial measure as defined under SEC rules, specifically EBITDA. EBITDA represents net earnings attributable to Hasbro, Inc. excluding net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests, interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. As required by SEC rules, we have provided reconciliation on the attached schedule of this measure to the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Management believes that EBITDA is one of the appropriate measures for evaluating the operating performance of the Company because it reflects the resources available for strategic opportunities including, among others, to invest in the business, strengthen the balance sheet, and make strategic acquisitions. This non-GAAP measure should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, or superior to, net earnings or other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP as more fully discussed in the Company's financial statements and filings with the SEC. As used herein, "GAAP" refers to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

HAS-E

HASBRO, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)

(Thousands of Dollars)
October 1, 2017

September 25,
2016
ASSETS
Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 1,244,778 $ 830,372
Accounts Receivable, Net 1,655,752 1,452,931
Inventories 629,120 607,701
Other Current Assets 232,590 255,983
Total Current Assets 3,762,240 3,146,987
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net 263,862 247,231
Other Assets 1,518,546 1,560,929
Total Assets $ 5,544,648 $ 4,955,147


LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Short-term Borrowings $ 189,012 $ 178,666
Current Portion of Long-term Debt - 349,611
Payables and Accrued Liabilities 1,295,745 1,087,442
Total Current Liabilities 1,484,757 1,615,719
Long-term Debt 1,693,261 1,198,461
Other Liabilities 410,378 364,378
Total Liabilities 3,588,396 3,178,558
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests - 34,829
Total Shareholders' Equity 1,956,252 1,741,760
Total Liabilities, Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
and Shareholders' Equity $ 5,544,648 $ 4,955,147

HASBRO, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
Quarter Ended Nine Months Ended

(Thousands of Dollars and Shares Except Per Share Data)

Oct. 1,
2017


% Net
Revenues


Sept. 25,
2016


% Net
Revenues


Oct. 1,
2017


% Net
Revenues


Sept. 25,
2016


% Net
Revenues
Net Revenues $ 1,791,502 100.0 % $ 1,679,757 100.0 % $ 3,613,671 100.0 % $ 3,389,882 100.0 %
Costs and Expenses:
Cost of Sales 730,656 40.8 % 658,986 39.2 % 1,404,971 38.9 % 1,270,902 37.5 %
Royalties 139,222 7.8 % 134,294 8.0 % 282,754 7.8 % 273,671 8.1 %
Product Development 67,386 3.8 % 70,083 4.2 % 192,765 5.3 % 190,918 5.6 %
Advertising 168,926 9.4 % 154,132 9.2 % 342,236 9.5 % 320,948 9.5 %
Amortization of Intangibles 6,492 0.4 % 8,691 0.5 % 22,254 0.6 % 26,073 0.8 %
Program Production Cost Amortization 5,394 0.3 % 6,282 0.4 % 16,152 0.4 % 17,501 0.5 %
Selling, Distribution and Administration 312,482 17.4 % 285,188 17.0 % 813,268 22.5 % 756,978 22.3 %
Operating Profit 360,944 20.1 % 362,101 21.6 % 539,271 14.9 % 532,891 15.7 %
Interest Expense 25,072 1.4 % 24,305 1.4 % 73,752 2.0 % 72,263 2.1 %
Other Income, Net (13,969 ) -0.8 % (8,528 ) -0.5 % (42,045 ) -1.2 % (11,929 ) -0.4 %
Earnings before Income Taxes 349,841 19.5 % 346,324 20.6 % 507,564 14.0 % 472,557 13.9 %
Income Taxes 84,258 4.7 % 90,162 5.4 % 105,659 2.9 % 120,005 3.5 %
Net Earnings 265,583 14.8 % 256,162 15.2 % 401,905 11.1 % 352,552 10.4 %
Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests - 0.0 % (1,636 ) -0.1 % - 0.0 % (6,103 ) -0.2 %
Net Earnings Attributable to Hasbro, Inc. $ 265,583 14.8 % $ 257,798 15.3 % $ 401,905 11.1 % $ 358,655 10.6 %

Per Common Share
Net Earnings Attributable to Hasbro, Inc.
Basic $ 2.12 $ 2.05 $ 3.21 $ 2.86
Diluted $ 2.09 $ 2.03 $ 3.16 $ 2.82

Cash Dividends Declared $ 0.57 $ 0.51 $ 1.71 $ 1.53

Weighted Average Number of Shares
Basic 125,170 125,500 125,204 125,414
Diluted 127,150 127,178 127,248 127,056

HASBRO, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(Thousands of Dollars)

Nine Months Ended
Oct. 1, 2017 Sept. 25, 2016
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net Earnings $ 401,905 $ 352,552
Non-cash Adjustments 185,413 182,142
Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities (385,522 ) (339,287 )
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 201,796 195,407

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to Property, Plant and Equipment (102,512 ) (103,639 )
Acquisitions and Investments, Net of Cash Acquired - (12,436 )
Other 5,516 25,576
Net Cash Utilized by Investing Activities (96,996 ) (90,499 )

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Proceeds from Borrowings with Maturity Greater Than 3 Months 493,878 -
Repayments of Borrowings with Maturity Greater Than 3 Months (350,000 ) -
Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Borrowings 15,663 14,160
Purchases of Common Stock (112,241 ) (104,273 )
Stock-based Compensation Transactions 29,432 37,515
Dividends Paid (206,012 ) (185,265 )
Employee Taxes Paid for Shares Withheld (31,973 ) (21,914 )
Other - 762
Net Cash Utilized by Financing Activities (161,253 ) (259,015 )

Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash 18,946 7,729

Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year 1,282,285 976,750

Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period $ 1,244,778 $ 830,372


Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year cash flow statement to conform to the
current year presentation.

HASBRO, INC.
SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL DATA
(Unaudited)
(Thousands of Dollars) Quarter Ended Nine Months Ended


Oct. 1,
2017


Sept. 25,
2016


%
Change


Oct. 1,
2017


Sept. 25,
2016


%
Change

Major Segment Results


U.S. and Canada Segment:

External Net Revenues $ 993,833 $ 932,844 7 % $ 1,939,837 $ 1,802,391 8 %
Operating Profit 217,278 228,034 -5 % 363,589 364,322 0 %
Operating Margin 21.9 % 24.4 % 18.7 % 20.2 %


International Segment:

External Net Revenues 739,229 690,745 7 % 1,511,074 1,436,911 5 %
Operating Profit 132,007 133,075 -1 % 149,435 165,582 -10 %
Operating Margin 17.9 % 19.3 % 9.9 % 11.5 %


Entertainment and Licensing Segment:

External Net Revenues 58,440 56,130 4 % 162,663 150,521 8 %
Operating Profit 16,910 14,095 20 % 39,580 33,367 19 %
Operating Margin 28.9 % 25.1 % 24.3 % 22.2 %


International Segment Net Revenues by Major Geographic Region

Europe $ 467,740 $ 452,834 3 % $ 921,467 $ 905,081 2 %
Latin America 174,446 154,985 13 % 339,071 307,949 10 %
Asia Pacific 97,043 82,926 17 % 250,536 223,881 12 %
Total $ 739,229 $ 690,745 $ 1,511,074 $ 1,436,911


Net Revenues by Brand Portfolio

Franchise Brands $ 827,282 $ 773,415 7 % $ 1,803,744 $ 1,642,057 10 %
Partner Brands 485,747 493,738 -2 % 928,724 979,051 -5 %
Hasbro Gaming 280,097 229,850 22 % 549,736 456,516 20 %
Emerging Brands 198,376 182,754 9 % 331,467 312,258 6 %
Total Net Revenues $ 1,791,502 $ 1,679,757 $ 3,613,671 $ 3,389,882


Hasbro's total gaming category, including all gaming revenue, most notably MAGIC: THE GATHERING and MONOPOLY,
totaled $424,836 and $951,386 for the three and nine months ended October 1, 2017, respectively, up 4% and 10%, respectively, from
revenues of $409,528 and $868,373 for the three and nine months ended September 25, 2016, respectively.



Reconciliation of EBITDA

Net Earnings Attributable to Hasbro, Inc. $ 265,583 $ 257,798 $ 401,905 $ 358,655
Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests - (1,636 ) - (6,103 )
Interest Expense 25,072 24,305 73,752 72,263
Income Taxes 84,258 90,162 105,659 120,005
Depreciation 42,062 32,236 107,853 89,327
Amortization of Intangibles 6,492 8,691 22,254 26,073
EBITDA $ 423,467 $ 411,556 $ 711,423 $ 660,220

James Gunn, Stan Bush & Daya Added to Hasbro’s HASCON FANmily Event Lineup, Sept. 8-10

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Hasbro Rolls Out All-Star Lineup for First-Ever HASCON FANmily™ Event Sept 8 – 10

Just Announced: Panels, Meet & Greets and Autograph Sessions with Entertainment Icons James Gunn, Stan Bush and Special Performance from Multi-Platinum
Singer-Songwriter Daya to join already announced line up of Stan Lee, Dude Perfect,
Lorenzo Di Bonaventura, Peter Cullen and Frank Welker.

New Ticket VIP Packages available offering exclusive access and opportunities

PAWTUCKET, R.I. – June 30, 2017 – Today Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ:HAS), a global play and entertainment company, unveiled additional programming details and VIP ticket packages for the first-ever HASCON FANmily event. Happening September 8 – 10, 2017 at the Rhode Island Convention Center and Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island, HASCON will bring Hasbro’s most iconic brands to life.

Joining the previously announced all-star line-up is James Gunn (writer and director, GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 1 and 2) and musician Stan Bush (singer, “The Touch” from TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE). HASCON will also feature a headlining performance and meet and greet from Multi-Platinum GRAMMY® Award-Winning singer-songwriter Daya and an interactive sing-along with Sesame Street’s beloved Muppets Elmo and Abby Cadabby.

Previously announced talent includes appearances by DUDE PERFECT, Stan Lee (Marvel Comics Legend), Lorenzo Di Bonaventura (Producer of all the TRANSFORMERS films, as well as G.I. JOE: The Rise of Cobra and G.I. JOE: Retaliation); Peter Cullen and Frank Welker (original TRANSFORMERS voice talent); Andrea Libman and Cathy Weseluck (voice talent of MY LITTLE PONY: FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC and MY LITTLE PONY: THE MOVIE); and “Chewbacca Mom,” Candace Payne.

This unique event will bring Hasbro’s most iconic brands to life like never before, including TRANSFORMERS, MY LITTLE PONY, NERF, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY and G.I. JOE and exceptional partner brands such as BEYBLADE, DREAMWORKS TROLLS and SESAME STREET. Fans will get a peek behind the Hasbro curtain during the three days filled with exciting first-look previews and panels from Hasbro’s biggest television and movie series, including Hasbro’s TRANSFORMERS: RESCUE BOTS, LITTLEST PET SHOP and MY LITTLE PONY: FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC as seen on Hasbro’s joint-venture television network Discovery Family.

In addition, there will be activities inspired by several iconic Disney properties, including Disney Princess, Frozen, Elena of Avalor, Moana and Descendants 2, as well as Star Wars and Marvel’s Avengers, Spider-Man and Guardians of the Galaxy. From movie props and costumes on display, to hands-on fun through art tutorials and more, these areas will be can’t-miss destinations during the show.

IDW Publishing’s Artist Alley will feature appearances from some of the industry’s most recognized comic illustrators, artists, and designers plus unique HASCON merchandise available for purchase. Ultra PRO, the leading brand of accessories for tabletop gaming, sports memorabilia and pop culture collectibles is the supporting provider of Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons activities, providing HASCON guests exclusive access to custom Magic: The Gathering event prizes and HASCON exclusive playmats, plush dice, deck boxes and learn-to-play participation gifts.

General Admission ticket holders will be treated to an exciting array of activities including: interactive brand experiences, panel discussions, meet and greets, musical guest performances, cosplay activities, a Hasbro passport tour and scavenger hunt, larger-than-life Hasbro games, a HASCON commemorative program and an opportunity to audition for Hasbro television commercials.

Just unveiled HASCON VIP packages will offer fans access to all General Admission activities, as well as special VIP 1 hour early access to the show floor to shop for a chance to buy HASCON exclusive product from My Little Pony, Transformers, Dungeons and Dragons as well as multi-convention exclusives from Star Wars, Marvel and Magic The Gathering.* VIP’s will also receive a Hasbro goodie bag, access to the VIP lounge and an exclusive behind the scenes tour of Hasbro headquarters, in addition to one of the following exclusive events:

· TRANSFORMERS Hall of Fame Dinner – Friday 6:30 pm
Be part of the first ever HASCON Transformers Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony with a surprise guest. Enjoy a sit-down dinner and experience an exclusive live performance from Stan Bush, a welcome with Peter Cullen and Frank Welker, and a sneak preview of select 2018 Transformers toys shared by the Transformers design and brand teams.

· My Little Pony Mane Event: Hall of Our FANmily Dinner – Friday 6:30 pm
Enter the world of Equestria at the first-ever My Little Pony HOOF (Hall of Our FANmily) Dinner and Induction Ceremony. The HOOF inductees will include special guests and surprise honorees who have left their hoofprint on the brand.

· G.I. Joe Legends Dinner – Friday 6:30 pm
Join co-emcees and G.I. Joe authors Derryl DePriest and Dan Klingensmith for an intimate and entertaining evening event featuring one of the greatest gatherings of G.I. Joe Legends ever assembled! As we celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the launch of the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero line, enjoy a sit-down dinner, meet and mingle with Legends and listen to them discuss their experiences on G.I. Joe.

· Stories with Stan – Saturday 11:30 am
This is your chance to sit down with Stan Lee, a true comic book legend! As one of this generation’s greatest storytellers, Stan will share his tales to astonish about the creation of pop culture icons including Spider-Man, The Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, Thor, the X-Men and many more – EXCELSIOR! Stories with Stan attendees are guaranteed to receive a pre-signed autograph poster from Stan Lee commemorating his HASCON visit and a surprise gift. Lunch will be served.

· Transformers: The Last Knight Movie Event
Join celebrities and producers, including Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Brian Goldner, from Transformers: The Last Knight to celebrate the home entertainment release and view special Bonus Footage. Enjoy light refreshments and a special video message from a surprise celebrity.

· My Little Pony: The Movie Sneak Peek – Saturday 6:15 pm
Be one of the first to catch a sneak peek of the upcoming My Little Pony: The Movie. Listen to film discussions with Head Storyteller Megan McCarthy and participate in a Q&A session with surprise celebrity talent, enjoy light refreshments, and enter a raffle for a chance to win My Little Pony merchandise.

General Admission ticketholders can also purchase special access to select HASCON VIP events as “ticket add-ons” through the HASCON website. These “add ons” include the above events as well as a special meet and greet with the Dudes, which includes an exclusive sneak peek of the Dude Perfect signature Bow video before it’s revealed, an autographed NERF Dude Perfect football, selfies and more!

To purchase General Admission and VIP tickets, view complete package details and stay up to date on all the latest information on HASCON 2017, please visit http://hascon.hasbro.com

The inaugural HASCON FANmily™ event is presented in part by IDW Publishing, Ultra PRO and Discovery Family.


STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.
© Hiro Morita, BBBProject, TV TOKYO. © 2017 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved.
About Hasbro
Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to Creating the World's Best Play Experiences. From toys and games to television, movies, digital gaming and consumer products, Hasbro offers a variety of ways for audiences to experience its iconic brands, including NERF, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, LITTLEST PET SHOP and MAGIC: THE GATHERING, as well as premier partner brands. The Company's Hasbro Studios and its film label, Allspark Pictures, are building its brands globally through great storytelling and content on all screens. Through its commitment to corporate social responsibility and philanthropy, Hasbro is helping to make the world a better place for children and their families. Hasbro ranked No. 1 on the 2017 100 Best Corporate Citizens list by CR Magazine, and has been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by Ethisphere Institute for the past six years. Learn more at www.hasbro.com, and follow us on Twitter (@Hasbro & @HasbroNews) and Instagram (@Hasbro).
© 2017 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
*Limited quantities available on HasbroToyShop.com after HASCON

Bumblebee, Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head March into Bristol, Rhode Island’s Fourth of July Parade

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Director Michael Bay Creates Special Virtual Reality Experience For Fans With ILMxLAB Team

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Box Office Predictions for Transformers: The Last Knight

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In what looks to be another case of summer franchise fatigue at the domestic box office, Paramount’s Transformers: The Last Knight opens tonight in the U.S. and it’s projected to be the lowest opening in the Hasbro cinematic series with a five-day take of $70 million at 3,800 theaters.

.....

Age Of Extinction per Deadline’s film finance sources, minted a profit of $250M after all ancillaries with an estimated $30M in revenue coming from merchandising — the real reason why studios continue to keep these dusty franchises in business, particularly with the wane of home entertainment monies. Age Of Extinction and 2011’s Dark Of The Moon cleared $1.1 billion and $1.12B at the global box office, respectively, and the trick for Paramount is getting Last Knight to that same result.

IDW First Strike - The Plot to Destroy All Transformers Has Begun

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The Plot To Destroy ALL Transformers Has Begun!
IDW Publishing Presents “First Strike” – A Hasbro Comic Book Event

San Diego, CA (June 19, 2017) – This August, General Joe Colton, the original G.I. JOE, will take the fight directly to the TRANSFORMERS home world of Cybertron in the Hasbro Comic Book Event of 2017 – First Strike!

This six-part, bi-weekly series will feature the talents of writers Mairghread Scott (TRANSFORMERS) and David A. Rodriguez (SKYLANDERS), with art by Max Dunbar (DUNGEONS & DRAGONS), and colors by Ander Zarate (MICRONAUTS).

Earth’s heroes have united after the explosive events of last year’s REVOLUTION! Bringing together G.I. JOE, ROM, the MICRONAUTS, M.A.S.K.: MOBILE ARMORED STRIKE KOMMAND, ACTION MAN, and the TRANSFORMERS, Earth has never been more secure now that it has become a member of the Council of Worlds due to Optimus Prime’s leadership.

But oversight and control isn’t what everyone wants; especially when that control is in the hands of alien forces…

The premiere season of post-REVOLUTION titles are heading towards their natural conclusions to make room for First Strike so fans can enjoy the action in one place (and go easy on their wallets during the event)! In addition to the main series, six additional one-shots will set the stage for the second season of the Hasbro comic universe, where fans will witness their favorite characters forming new alliances, paving the way for exciting adventures to come.

Look for Micronauts: First Strike, by Christos Gage and Chris Panda, G.I. Joe: First Strike, by Aubrey Sitterson and Ilias Kyriazis, and Optimus Prime: First Strike by John Barber and Guido Guidi in September.

M.A.S.K.: MOBILE ARMORED STRIKE KOMMAND.: First Strike, by Aubrey Sitterson and Ilias Kyriazis, Rom: First Strike, by by Christos Gage and Chris Panda, and TRANSFORMERS: First Strike by John Barber and Guido Guidi will follow in October.

These one-shots will explore more corners of the event for completest readers who just can’t get enough, while also providing a glimpse into what the future will bring for our heroes when the dust settles on the scorched planet of Cybertron at the conclusion of First Strike.

IDW’s Editor-in-Chief, David Hedgecock says, “This is what REVOLUTION has been building towards over the past year. It’s been an exciting first season of action in the Hasbro shared universe which laid the foundation for all-new stories and adventures, but now with FIRST STRIKE, we’re shaking things up and, once again, disrupting the status quo forever. It’s a perfect time for readers, new and old, to jump on board and join us for one raucously fun ride!”

The event kicks off in First Strike #0, now available as a GIVEAWAY in comic shops (ask your local retailer) and online at idwpublishing.com/first-strike. Inside you’ll discover more of what Joe Colton is plotting against the TRANSFORMERS and what our Earth’s heroes are up against! (Available while supplies last.)

In the back of the #0 issue, you’ll find a handy checklist for the entire event running through October, as well as a couple new #1s scheduled for November and December titled G.I. JOE: UNMASKED and ROM & THE MICRONAUTS, respectively. Keep checking the IDW site, as well as following IDW on social media, as more info about these exciting new titles becomes available!


About IDW
IDW Media Holdings, Inc. (OCTQX: IDWM) is a fully integrated media company, which includes publishing, games, entertainment, and the San Diego Comic Art Gallery.

IDW Publishing’s comic book and graphic novel catalog includes some of the world’s most popular entertainment brands, including Transformers, My Little Pony, Star Trek, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ghostbusters, and Disney’s classic characters. At IDW’s core is its commitment to creator-owned comics including 30 Days of Night, Locke & Key, Wormwood, Ragnarök, V-Wars, and Archangel by bestselling sci-fi author William Gibson.

IDW Publishing is also home to the acclaimed and award-winning imprints; Top Shelf, The Library of American Comics, Yoe! Books, and Artist Editions, showcasing the greatest original art ever published in American comic books.

IDW Games’ diverse line-up includes the international phenomenon Machi Koro, as well as hit licensed games such as X-Files, Back to the Future, The Godfather, and TMNT.

IDW Entertainment serves as the worldwide distributor of Wynonna Earp airing on the Syfy Channel in the U.S. and is producing BBC America’s Dirk Gently, based on the bestseller by Douglas Adams starring Elijah Wood and Samuel Barnett.

About Hasbro
Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to Creating the World's Best Play Experiences. From toys and games to television, movies, digital gaming and consumer products, Hasbro offers a variety of ways for audiences to experience its iconic brands, including NERF, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, LITTLEST PET SHOP and MAGIC: THE GATHERING, as well as premier partner brands. The Company's Hasbro Studios and its film label, Allspark Pictures, are building its brands globally through great storytelling and content on all screens. Through its commitment to corporate social responsibility and philanthropy, Hasbro is helping to make the world a better place for children and their families. Hasbro ranked No. 1 on the 2017 100 Best Corporate Citizens list by CR Magazine, and has been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by Ethisphere Institute for the past six years. Learn more at www.hasbro.com, and follow us on Twitter (@Hasbro & @HasbroNews) and Instagram (@Hasbro).

Hasbro Opens Ticket Sales for HASCON FANmily™ Event - Press Release Update

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HASCON is Hasbro’s first ever fan and family convention which will be held at the Rhode Island Convention Center and Dunkin’ Donuts Center and other nearby locations (collectively the “HASCON Sites”) from September 8-10, 2017. HASCON will be a celebration of Hasbro’s powerful characters and stories and will include live interactive experiences, special HASCON products, talent appearances, first-look screenings, panels, and much more. HASCON will feature Hasbro’s iconic brands including TRANSFORMERS, MY LITTLE PONY, NERF, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, G.I. JOE and more.

HASBRO OPENS TICKET SALES FOR FIRST-EVER HASCON FANMILY™ EVENT

Three Day Convention Will Include Panels, Larger-than-Life Brand Experiences, Games Events, Auditions for Hasbro TV Commercials and Shows, Meet & Greets and Appearances from Peter Cullen, Frank Welker, Stan Lee, Dude Perfect and top
MY LITTLE PONY and TRANSFORMERS Talent

PAWTUCKET, R.I. -- May 22, 2017 – Today Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ:HAS), a global play and entertainment company, officially opened ticket sales for the first-ever HASCON FANmily™ event, which will take place in Providence at the Rhode Island Convention Center and Dunkin’ Donuts Center from September 8-10, 2017. Hasbro fans and families from around the globe can purchase single day tickets or three-day tickets for the convention, with VIP packages available for super-fans and the most enthusiastic collectors.

Today Hasbro also revealed the first round of talent appearances, panels and brand experiences set to take place during HASCON 2017. Appearances and meet & greets will be available with some of the biggest names from Hasbro, including DUDE PERFECT, Lorenzo Di Bonaventura (Producer of all the TRANSFORMERS films, as well as G.I. JOE: The Rise of Cobra and G.I. JOE: Retaliation); Stan Lee (Marvel Comics Legend); Peter Cullen and Frank Welker (original TRANSFORMERS voice talent); Andrea Libman and Cathy Weseluck (voice talent of MY LITTLE PONY: FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC and MY LITTLE PONY: THE MOVIE), “Chewbacca Mom”, Candace Payne and more.

This unique event will bring Hasbro’s most iconic brands to life like never before, including TRANSFORMERS, MY LITTLE PONY, NERF, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY and G.I. JOE, and exceptional partner brands such as BEYBLADE, DREAMWORKS TROLLS and SESAME STREET. Fans will get a peek behind the Hasbro curtain during the three days filled with exciting first-look previews and panels from Hasbro’s biggest television and movie series.

Attendees will be immersed in hands-on, interactive experiences with oversized games such as PIE FACE and TOILET TROUBLE from HASBRO GAMING, photo opportunities with SESAME STREET and TROLLS costumed characters, epic BEYBLADE battles, a PLAY-DOH creation zone and the MY LITTLE PONY magical world of Equestria. FANmilies will be able to take photos with props from Hasbro’s movies and step into a custom-built NERF battle arena, maybe even with the guys from DUDE PERFECT. HASCON will also host MAGIC: THE GATHERING gameplay featuring an exclusive preview of the upcoming Iconic Masters card set. Youth fans, ages 3-15, have the opportunity to audition for Hasbro commercials and voice talent on our animated series. Fans also can purchase exclusive* Hasbro toys and merchandise including new TRANSFORMERS products.

In addition, there will be activities inspired by several iconic Disney properties, including Disney Princess, Frozen, Elena of Avalor, Moana and Descendants 2, as well as Star Wars and Marvel’s Avengers, Spider-Man and Guardians of the Galaxy. From movie props and costumes on display, to hands-on fun through art tutorials and more, these areas will be can’t-miss destinations during the show.

“Hasbro constantly strives for new ways to bring our storytelling to life and offer fans greater access to our brands, and HASCON is designed to bring attendees closer to Hasbro’s biggest properties than ever before,” said John Frascotti, President of Hasbro. “We are assembling the ultimate fan celebration, with three days of marquee talent, interactive activities, immersive experiences, game events, panel discussions, VIP events and much more. We’re set to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans and families alike.”

HASCON tickets are on-sale now. Single day tickets are available for $30 for youth (ages 3-15) and $60 for adults (ages 16+). Three-Day tickets range from $75 for youth (ages 3-15) to $165 for adults (ages 16+). VIP packages are also available for super-fans and the most enthusiastic collectors starting at $200 for youth (ages 3 – 15) and $600 for adults (ages 16+), plus taxes. To purchase tickets and stay up to date on all the latest information on HASCON 2017, please visit http://hascon.hasbro.com

STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.
© Hiro Morita, BBBProject, TV TOKYO. © 2017 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved.

About Hasbro
Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to Creating the World's Best Play Experiences. From toys and games to television, movies, digital gaming and consumer products, Hasbro offers a variety of ways for audiences to experience its iconic brands, including NERF, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, LITTLEST PET SHOP and MAGIC: THE GATHERING, as well as premier partner brands. The Company's Hasbro Studios and its film label, Allspark Pictures, are building its brands globally through great storytelling and content on all screens. Through its commitment to corporate social responsibility and philanthropy, Hasbro is helping to make the world a better place for children and their families. Hasbro ranked No. 1 on the 2017 100 Best Corporate Citizens list by CR Magazine, and has been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by Ethisphere Institute for the past six years. Learn more at www.hasbro.com, and follow us on Twitter (@Hasbro & @HasbroNews) and Instagram (@Hasbro).
© 2017 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Crystal Flynn
Hasbro, Inc.
Crystal.Flynn@hasbro.com
401-727-5129

*Limited quantities available on HasbroToyShop.com after HASCON.