Early Life
Manny Stul's life began in a refugee camp near Munich, Germany, after his parents, Polish-Jewish Holocaust survivors, fled Poland. He was born in 1948 or 1949. At seven months old, his family immigrated to Australia, spending three years in a refugee camp in Western Australia before settling in Perth.
Rise to Success
Stul's entrepreneurial journey began in 1974 when he founded Skansen Giftware. He built this company into one of Australia's largest giftware businesses, eventually listing it on the Australian Stock Exchange in 1993. In 2000, Stul took control of Moose Toys, a struggling Australian toy company with just ten employees at the time. Over a 16-year period, Stul increased sales by 7,200%, transforming the company into a global player, the fourth-largest toy company in Australia, and the sixth-largest in the US. The Shopkins collectible line became a massive hit, contributing significantly to Moose Toys' success.
Key Business Strategies
Stul's success can be attributed to his focus on innovation and a strong company culture. Under his leadership, Moose Toys has consistently created award-winning and innovative toys. Stul has emphasized the importance of embracing technological changes and finding niches in the market to differentiate the business. He's also highlighted the significance of having a strong team and fostering good communication within the company. His strategy includes the ability to adapt to the market, a passion for the business, hard work, and a willingness to innovate.
Philanthropy
Stul and Moose Toys have made contributions to children's well-being, including building playgrounds and supporting children's hospitals. He personally donates a portion of his income anonymously.