Spin Master Confirms Job Cuts Amid Global Trade Crisis

What’s Happening at Spin Master?
Spin Master, the Toronto-based toy and entertainment giant behind PAW Patrol, Hatchimals, and Gabby’s Dollhouse, confirmed that it has scaled back its staffing levels.
- The announcement came June 3 as the company tries to weather mounting global duties, particularly from the US on Chinese imports
- Multiple impacted employees have contacted Samfiru Tumarkin LLP — seeking legal advice and severance package reviews
In an emailed statement to The Canadian Press, company spokesperson Tammy Smitham said:
The exact number of roles eliminated hasn’t been disclosed at this time.
Official Statements and Context
Spin Master recently reported a US$24.5-million loss in Q1 2025, withdrawing its full-year financial outlook due to “meaningful uncertainty” caused by the ongoing global trade war.
CEO Max Rangel:
CFO Mark Segal:
Strategic Shifts
Supply Chain Diversification:
- Spin Master plans to produce 70% of toys for the US market outside China by the end of 2025, increasing to 75–80% by 2026
- This shift aligns with the broader toy industry response to US duties on Chinese manufacturing
Cost Management:
- The company is exploring different shipping methods to offset the impacts of US duties
- Price increases are also being considered, as Spin Master acknowledges that not all costs can be absorbed internally.
Next Steps for Spin Master Employees
If you’re affected by the workforce reduction at Spin Master, understanding your legal rights is crucial.
Non-unionized employees in Canada’s retail sector are entitled to severance pay based on a variety of factors, including their role, tenure, age, and ability to find similar work.
ℹ️ Want a quick overview on severance pay? Watch the video below or check out the full episode in our TV section.
Here’s What You Need to Know
- Compensation: Severance packages, which can be as much as 24 months’ pay, may include salary, bonuses, commissions, and other forms of compensation. Use our firm’s free Severance Pay Calculator to better understand your entitlements.
- Deadlines: You generally have up to two years from the date of your termination to review and negotiate severance offers.
- Action steps: Consult an employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure your severance package is fair and aligns with Canadian employment laws.
💡You Have Rights!
For a broader understanding of your severance rights, visit Spin Master Layoffs: Your Rights and Severance Pay Explained. You can also use our Pocket Employment Lawyer to get real-time insights.
Lost Your Job at Spin Master? Contact Us
If you’ve lost your job at Spin Master for any reason, the experienced employment law team at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help.
Our lawyers in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia have helped tens of thousands of non-unionized individuals resolve their workplace issues.
Call us today at 1-855-821-5900 or request a consultation online.
⛔ UNIONIZED?
You must consult your union representative regarding termination, severance pay, and other workplace issues. These matters are governed by your collective bargaining agreement. By law, employment lawyers can’t represent unionized employees with these issues.
Disclaimer: The materials above are provided as general information about the rights of non-unionized employees in Canada. It is NOT specific to any one company and should NOT be read as suggesting any improper conduct on the part of any specific employer, or a relationship between Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and a specific employer.