Cost cuts, American Girl help Mattel beat expectat

By Dhanya Skariachan (Reuters) - No. 1 toymaker Mattel Inc reported stronger-than-expected first-quarter results, helped by tight cost controls and increased demand for American Girl and Monster High dolls. The company, which is also known for its Barbie dolls and Hot Wheels cars, has raised prices globally and started making products for local consumption in countries such as Brazil and India to hold the line on costs. Local production helps Mattel get products to stores faster and cut down on import duties and shipping costs, it told Reuters earlier this year. ...