Quick Read
- Hasbro is relocating its headquarters from Pawtucket, Rhode Island, to Boston’s Seaport District by 2026.
- The move will involve 700 full-time employees transitioning to a new 265,000-square-foot office.
- Boston’s innovation and business ecosystem influenced the decision, according to CEO Chris Cocks.
- Hasbro will maintain ties to Rhode Island, including donations to Hasbro Children’s Hospital.
- This move aligns with Hasbro’s strategy to enhance growth in both physical and digital entertainment.
Hasbro, the century-old toy and board game giant behind beloved products like Monopoly, Play-Doh, and Dungeons & Dragons, has officially announced its decision to move its headquarters from Pawtucket, Rhode Island, to Boston, Massachusetts. This relocation, revealed on September 8, 2025, is set to transition 700 full-time employees to a new office in Boston’s Seaport District by the end of 2026. The move underscores Hasbro’s ambition to strengthen its position in both physical and digital entertainment markets.
Why Hasbro is Moving to Boston
Boston’s Seaport District has emerged as a thriving hub for innovation and business, making it an attractive destination for Hasbro. The company’s new office, located at 400 Summer Street, will span seven floors and cover 265,000 square feet. According to Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks, the city’s vibrant business ecosystem, academic partnerships, and cultural richness played a crucial role in the decision. In a statement quoted by Providence Journal, Cocks emphasized, “Boston’s thriving business community, deep academic partnerships, and cultural vibrancy give Hasbro an unparalleled foundation for growth.”
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey welcomed the move, expressing optimism about the economic and job opportunities it will bring. “We are thrilled that Hasbro has chosen Massachusetts as the home of its new headquarters, and we’re ready to support the hundreds of jobs they will create here,” she said, as reported by CBS News Boston. The relocation also aligns with Hasbro’s broader goal to enhance its agility, speed, and innovation capabilities by leveraging the resources of major tech and innovation centers like Boston and its secondary hub in Seattle.
Impact on Rhode Island and Legacy Commitments
While Hasbro’s departure marks the end of a significant era for Pawtucket, Rhode Island, the company has pledged to maintain strong ties to the state. As noted in the company’s official statement and reported by WCVB, Hasbro will continue its annual donations to the Hasbro Children’s Hospital and will also recruit talent from Rhode Island colleges and universities. The company highlighted its historical connection to the state, stating, “For more than a century, Hasbro has grown alongside the community, and that commitment continues today.”
Despite these assurances, the move has sparked mixed reactions among local officials and residents. Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien has yet to comment publicly on the announcement, while Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee’s office has also remained silent on the matter. However, the company’s promises to honor its legacy in Rhode Island aim to mitigate concerns about the economic impact of its departure.
Boston: A Strategic Move for Growth
By relocating to Boston, Hasbro is positioning itself to capitalize on the city’s robust talent pool and innovation-driven culture. The Seaport District, in particular, has become a magnet for major corporations, including LEGO, which recently announced its move to Boston as well. With its new headquarters, Hasbro plans to focus on its toys, board games, and licensing businesses, while its Seattle office will continue to oversee digital gaming and technology operations, including the popular Magic: The Gathering franchise.
In its official statement, the company explained how Boston and Seattle complement each other as innovation hubs. “Boston and Seattle are two of the nation’s leading innovation and tech centers, serving as talent magnets that will help Hasbro harness the full power of the company’s portfolio and unlock growth in both physical and digital play,” the company noted. The move is expected to enhance Hasbro’s ability to compete in the rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.
What Lies Ahead for Hasbro
Hasbro’s relocation to Boston marks a pivotal chapter in its history. With 700 employees set to transition by the end of 2026, the company is poised to benefit from the Seaport District’s dynamic environment. At the same time, its continued support for Rhode Island institutions reflects its commitment to honoring its roots. As Hasbro adapts to the demands of the 21st-century market, this strategic move could serve as a blueprint for other legacy companies navigating similar challenges.
Hasbro’s decision to move to Boston underscores its strategic vision for growth and innovation. While the company bids farewell to its century-old roots in Rhode Island, its commitment to maintaining its legacy ensures that it remains connected to its past as it embraces the future.