The Globe and Mail reports in its Thursday edition that Spin Master is acquiring U.S. toy maker Melissa & Doug for $950-million (U.S.), the largest takeover in the company's history. The Globe's Daniel Reale-Chin writes that the deal to buy Melissa & Doug will add a brand of creative and developmental toys for parents seeking screen-free play. Melissa & Doug recorded $490-million (U.S.) in sales in 2022. "The brand aligns well with ours," Spin Master co-founder Ronnen Harary told The Globe. "Its reputation for building heirlooms is felt by the end consumer. You can see it in the customer reviews, which was part of what attracted us to them." Melissa & Doug has a 35-year history in the toy department. Co-founders Melissa Bernstein and her husband, Doug, began the brand in 1988 and have since expanded their portfolio of plush and wooden toys and puzzles to be included in multiple specialty and big-brand retailers including Walmart and Indigo. The company will remain its own stand-alone brand. Spin Master said it plans to expand Melissa & Doug's market through Spin Master's international footprint of 26 global offices, including in Britain, China and Australia. Spin Master's largest brand is PAW Patrol.