Mattel posts a surprise profit as Barbie sales fall despite movie hype
The “Barbie” blockbuster movie created magic at the box office, but the iconic doll’s parent Mattel is bracing for it to make a big difference in the toy aisles. Mattel Inc. on Wednesday turned in a surprise profit and better sales during the second quarter than analysts expected. But worldwide sales of Barbie to retailers excluding adjustments fell 6% in the quarter ended June 30 as promotions were shifted to align with last weekend’s release of the iconic doll’s first live action picture. Mattel executives told analysts during an earnings call following the release that sales