February 23, 2004
In The Loop: With some celebrity help, San Diego-based Swag Co. Inc., headed up by president Cindy DeAngelis, saw sales of its Loopies toys for kids and pets increase 150 percent in 2003.
Comedienne and talk show host Ellen Degeneres included Loopies on her list of great holiday gift ideas in December.
Also, rock star wife and talk-show host Sharon Osbourne will feature Loopies this month on her show.
Although nothing has been scheduled, NBC's "Today Show" has contacted Swag for its feature on toys - including Loopies - recognized by the Oppenheim Awards. The Oppenheim Toy Portfolio in New York conducts independent consumer reviews of toys.
In print media, Loopies were in the December issue of Parenting magazine and ranked 14th on Pet Age magazine's list of "Top 25 Most Exciting Pet Products for 2003."
What are Loopies? They're brightly colored geometrical figures that come in plush and neoprene varieties in various sizes. Some have squeakers and other noisemakers.
If you're having trouble visualizing them, go to www.loopiestoys.com. They sell on the Web site for $4.99 to $14.99.
More than 1,000 U.S. retailers sell Loopies, including Uptown Pets and Ocean Beach Dogwash in San Diego. In March they'll be available at western Trader Joe's stores.