News Summary
Hasbro has announced it will relocate its corporate headquarters from Pawtucket, Rhode Island, to Boston’s Seaport District by the end of 2026, affecting at least 700 employees. This move is aligned with the company’s growth strategy and has elicited mixed reactions from state officials. The relocation poses economic challenges for Pawtucket and raises concerns about job creation and local business viability. Hasbro plans to maintain its philanthropic support in Rhode Island amidst the transition.
Rhode Island is set to face significant economic challenges following the announcement by Hasbro on September 8, 2025, that the company will relocate its corporate headquarters from Pawtucket to Boston’s Seaport District. This marks a considerable loss for the state, where Hasbro has been located for over a century since its founding in 1923.
By the end of 2026, at least 700 full-time employees will be transferred from Rhode Island to Boston. Hasbro has secured a lease for 265,000 square feet of office space across seven floors at 400 Summer St. in Boston, a move that aligns with the company’s long-term “Playing to Win” business strategy. With this relocation, Hasbro will have no operational presence in Rhode Island.
Rationale Behind the Move
Hasbro’s CEO expressed that Boston provides a thriving business community, robust academic partnerships, and cultural vibrancy, which are seen as vital for the company’s growth trajectory. This strategic decision reflects broader trends of corporations seeking more favorable business climates.
Reactions from State Officials
The relocation has elicited mixed responses from state officials. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has welcomed Hasbro’s move, emphasizing the job creation potential in Boston. Conversely, Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee has acknowledged the disappointment surrounding Hasbro’s departure while underscoring the importance of jobs generated by other establishments in the state.
Following the announcement, leaders in the Rhode Island legislature expressed discontent, describing the decision as disappointing yet reaffirming a commitment to attract new businesses. The House Minority Leader pointed out that Hasbro’s departure underscores ongoing issues in the state’s business environment and economic challenges. In an effort to retain Hasbro, state officials provided incentives and potential prime land in downtown Providence, but these negotiations ultimately proved unsuccessful.
Impact on Pawtucket and the Local Economy
The implications of Hasbro’s relocation are dire for Pawtucket, which faces a significant drop in tax revenue and challenges associated with filling the resulting vacant properties. Hasbro is known as one of the largest commercial taxpayers in the area, and its exit raises concerns about the overall viability of local businesses.
Pawtucket’s Mayor expressed deep disappointment at the news, recognizing that the community is heavily tied to Hasbro’s history and contributions. Furthermore, the recent passing of former CEO Alan Hassenfeld, who played a crucial role in the company’s local roots, has further complicated the situation for the Rhode Island community.
Future Considerations
Amidst the strategic changes, Hasbro has committed to maintaining its philanthropic efforts in Rhode Island, including ongoing support for Hasbro Children’s Hospital. The company intends to continue recruiting talent from Rhode Island colleges and universities despite the headquarters move.
Local economic leaders worry that Hasbro’s relocation may deter future corporate investments in Rhode Island, posing longer-term challenges for the state. Although various officials express hope for Pawtucket’s revitalization and recovery post-Hasbro, the reality remains that this relocation signifies a notable loss for the community historically intertwined with the toy giant. As the region grapples with this transition, it aims to explore new avenues for economic growth and business attraction.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Brown Daily Herald: Hasbro Relocation Announcement
- Turn to 10: Hasbro Headquarters Move to Boston
- Providence Journal: Hasbro Announces Move to Boston
- CBS News: Hasbro Moving Headquarters to Boston
- Wikipedia: Hasbro
- Google Search: Hasbro Corporate Headquarters Move
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
