The demise of Toys “R” Us Inc. took a toll on Hasbro Inc. last quarter, but the toymaker says the worst is behind it, Bloomberg News reported. Hasbro posted declining sales in all business areas, after the world’s largest toy chain announced the liquidation of its operations in the U.S. and U.K. Hasbro’s shares initially declined, only to rebound after Chief Executive Officer Brian Goldner told investors the impact would lessen going forward as retailers, such as Walmart Inc. and Target Corp., likely expand their toy offerings. Hasbro reiterated yesterday that free-cash flow this year would be $600 million to $700 million and that operating profit would be at the same level, a positive sign. Goldner also said the company stopped shipping to Toys “R” Us in January and that the liquidation of the chain’s U.S. stores will be completed this quarter.
