Original lad's mag Viz is continuing to expand in the licensing arena, with agent Metrostar bringing on board a further two partners.

CardMix will be developing a range of Viz greeting cards and online personalised greetings based on the Viz Top Tips, while Spike Leisurewear will be creating a line of t-shirts based on the characters.

Spike will preview the product at Autumn Fair in September.

"Over the past six months, Metrostar has increased its licensing resource and efforts, very specifically targeting the growth of Viz into some key categories," explained Claire Potter, Metrostar MD. "To have the first greeting card ranges in-store and new apparel product previewing at Autumn Fair later this year, will be a huge asset to the brand."

On top of the new partners, Famous Forever has been enjoying success in Next with its t-shirt designs of Sid the Sexist and Johnny Fartpants.

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An underwear range featuring Johnny Fartpants will be launching later this summer from Brand Alliance, while he was also the lead character in Asda's Father's Day campaign. Brand Alliance will also be introducing t-shirts into Tesco this autumn.

Widening the retail distribution further, The Officers Club will be launching a range of Viz t-shirts and apparel in all stores from the autumn.