Business
Mattel Launches a New Era of Thomas & Friends™ with an All-New System of Play
The new system introduces Easy Connect track, refreshed engines, and authentic train play designed to help kids build stories, confidence and connection EL
About this update from Mattel, Inc.
[{"type":"text","content":"\nThe new system introduces Easy Connect track, refreshed engines, and authentic train play designed to help kids build stories, confidence and connection\n\n\n EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--\nToday, Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) unveiled, for the first time, an all-new Thomas & Friends™ system of play, Easy Connect. The beloved franchise is introducing a reimagined track system, a wide assortment of newly designed die-cast engines with magnetic connectors, and new motorized engines—together creating the easiest and most immersive Thomas play experience yet for preschoolers.\n\nThis press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260210325198/en/Mattel unveiled, for the first time, an all-new Thomas & Friends™ system of play, Easy Connect. The beloved franchise is introducing a reimagined track system, a wide assortment of newly designed die-cast engines with magnetic connectors, and new motorized engines.\nDebuting ahead of New York Toy Fair, the new Thomas & Friends lineup introduces a patent pending Easy Connect™ track system that helps young children build faster, connect more easily, and play independently. Paired with a refreshed range of push-along and motorized engines, the unified system is designed to grow with kids while bringing the world of Sodor, with its beloved characters, to life through authentic train play and storytelling.\n\n\nFollowing the reveal of the franchise’s refreshed visual identity, this launch signals the future of Thomas & Friends in 2026 expanding the world of Sodor. Featuring intuitive connections, wider rails, auto-rerail technology, and magnetic couplers across all engines, the system reduces frustration, builds confidence, and encourages imaginative, open-ended play, allowing kids maximum time creating their own Thomas adventures and playing out stories with their favorite characters.\n\n\n“For generations, Thomas has helped children make sense of the world, and as the world continues to advance, the brand is reimagining play to bring greater ease, comfort and joy,” said Ted Wu, senior vice president and Global Head of Vehicles & Building Sets at Mattel. “With this new system of play, we’re staying true to our legacy while creating smarter connections that address everyday play frustrations and fuel imagination. From a new assortm...