Playmobil teases major new partnership with classic TV IP The A Team

Playmobil could be igniting the passions of kidult audiences across the UK once again with another heavy dose of nostalgia. And this time it’s taking the form of The A Team.

Playmobil UK has teased a new partnership in the retro property space, releasing an 11-second snippet via social media this morning, hinting towards a major new project with the A Team IP.

The clip gives very little away, other than an alliance has been formed between the toymaker and the iconic A Team property, although the firm’s choice of hashtags could offer some hint as to what it has up its sleeves.

Playmobil has made a success of tapping into the retro and classic IP space, having launched the wildly popular Back the Future DeLorean and extended play-sets to strong positive reception from a market of nostalgia driven consumers.

Given the popularity of its DeLorean vehicle play-set and its previously launched Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, and the track record that Playmobil has for converting iconic vehicles from the film and TV space into popular toy lines, it’s certainly not too far fetched to imagine the firm’s A Team partnership resulting in the launch of the iconic A Team van at some point in the near future.

Playmobil has remained tight-lipped about the project, but has stated that two further teaser clips will be released soon.

From the US | Jazwares unveils its Dino Ranch toy, plush, playset and vehicle line-up

Jazwares has finally unveiled its highly anticipated Dino Ranch toy line, expanding on the dinosaur themed world of play from the popular animated series which has become the number one preschool show on US cable since it launched in January.

Items in the new range from Jazwares will be making their debut at online retailers such as Walmart.com, Target.com, and Amazon this autumn, with additional in-store listings with key retailers across the UK, including Kohls.

The new product range spans plush, assorted figures, feature vehicles, and play-sets, all based on the character, settings and story lines found within the hit CG animated series. Dino Ranch is produced by Industrial Brothers and Boat Rocker Studios and made its US debut in January this year on Disney Junior.

The series follows the Cassidy family as they tackle life in a fantastical “pre-westoric” setting where dinosaurs roam. The working farm is the ultimate playground for the tight-knit family: Ma (Jane), Pa (Bo) and their three adopted kids, Jon, Min and Miguel. Together they are in charge of rounding up, riding and caring for a lively herd of racing, roaring dinosaurs who are also their best friends.

“We’re thrilled to bring the world of Dino Ranch to preschoolers, and the entire team at Jazwares is ready to join the roundup of the ultimate prehistoric meets Wild West toy line,” said Laura Zebersky, president of Jazwares.

“Loveable, colorful, and full of surprises, this new line will transform playtime into a dino-driven world of adventure.”

Kate Schlomann, EVP brand management and content marketing, Boat Rocker Studios said: “We are delighted to see Jazwares innovative toy line finally launch. Jazwares is the perfect partner for Dino Ranch, and have transformed the onscreen characters into a fantastic product range with great play value, allowing kids to build out their very own Dino Ranch world.

“We’ve had lots of requests for toys on our social channels and cannot wait to see how fans react to them.”

The new Dino Ranch product line includes:

  • Dino-Mites Assortment ($3.99 MSRP): Create the ultimate playground with the Dino Ranch Dino-Mite egg blind figures, featuring 12 mighty mini dinosaur toys to collect.
  • Dino Ranchers 2-Pack Assortment ($8.99 MSRP): Bring home the adventure with the Dino Ranch 2-Pack featuring one Dino Rancher (Jon, Min or Miguel), plus their dino sidekick!
  • Dino Ranch 6 Figure Pack ($24.99 MSRP): The Dino Ranch 6 Figure Pack features all three Dino Ranchers along with their respective dino companions!
  • Dino Action Pack Assortment ($12.99 MSRP): Build out your own Dino Ranch with the Dino Ranch Action Pack Assortment, featuring an adorable 5-inch Dino Ranch facade, four 4-inch articulated dino figures, and four connectable fence pieces.
  • Deluxe Dino Pack ($14.99 MSRP): Saddle up and join Biscuit, the T-Rex and Angus, the triceratops at the Dino Ranch! The 5-inch feature dinos are the biggest ones at the Dino Ranch, the ranch and dinosaur sanctuary where Jon, Min, and Miguel live with Ma (Jane) and Pa (Bo!)!
  • Feature Vehicle Assortment ($12.99 MSRP): Ride along with Jon, Min, & Miguel with the Dino Ranch Feature Vehicle Assortment. Each 5” Dino vehicle has a unique feature and includes their Dino Rancher Figure sidekick!
  • Hatchery Playset ($19.99 MSRP): The Dino Ranch Hatchery Adventure Set is the perfect way to expand the Dino Ranch! It includes a light up Dino Egg Incubator, an Exclusive Mini figure, two Dino-Mites, plus six accessories.
  • Clubhouse Playset ($39.99 MSRP): Welcome to the Dino Ranch Clubhouse, the Dino Ranchers’ hangout spot! This large playset is modular and comes with 9 built-in features, as well as one dino rancher figure, two small dinosaurs, and one free wheel vehicle.
  • Plush Assortment ($6.99 MSRP): The Dino Ranch Little Plush Assortment features one of three soft and cuddly dinos. They look like they jumped right out of the show! Get to know Blitz, the lightning-fast velociraptor, Clover, the gentle brontosaurus, and Tango, the mighty triceratops.

First Moonbug Kids branded channel launches in Italy through Mediaset broadcast partnership

Moonbug Entertainment has formed a new partnership with the Italian media company, Mediaset, to launch the first Moonbug Kids branded channel to the territory, available through the Mediaset Infinity digital platform.

Under the partnership, the subscription based channel will offer families across Italy access to Moonbug’s roster of shows including CoComelon, Blippie, and Little Baby Bum. New content will be added each month.

“Moonbug is committed to creating content and experiences that are fun and enriching, and we are thrilled to continue bringing our premium catalog of shows to families across Europe,” said Nicolas Eglau, managing director EMEA and APAC, Moonbug.

“This partnership with Mediaset, the number one broadcaster in Italy, speaks to our mission for future expansion and solidifies our footprint as a leading brand for children across the continent.”

Moonbug’s programming is recognised and enjoyed for allowing children to learn and grow by promoting healthy values like compassion, empathy and resilience. Through its visuals, kids can connect with relatable narratives like eating vegetables and getting ready for bed as well as singing-along to playful nursery rhymes that help them learn letters, numbers, animal sounds, colors and more.

US rock band KISS back on the road with worldwide tour and global roster of licensing partners

America’s platinum record selling rock band, KISS is hitting the road once again, continuing its End of the Road World Tour this year, and bringing with it a truly global licensing programme that spans multiple categories across international markets.

Headed up by the band’s exclusive global licensing agent, Epic Rights, a full roster of global partners makes up the licensing list as the rockers kick their worldwide parade back into action. The End of the Road World Tour launched in 2019 but hit the pause button while the world grappled with the coronavirus pandemic.

The tour will now set out to wow audiences in 2021 with rescheduled shows and new additional concert dates. And with the return of the show, comes the return of the band’s established merchandise machine. KISS continues to be among the most merchandised bands in history, and a pioneering force in the music merchandise and licensing industry. KISS branded merchandise is currently available in major retailers around the world, including Nordstrom, Macy’s, Urban Outfitters, Hot Topic, Torrid, Tilly’s, Pacsun, Cotton On, Target, Walmart, and more.

New KISS deals across the US include those with the likes of Dead Sled Coffee and its pre-packaged coffee, Robert Graham and a new fashion and accessories launch, and Lauren Moshi who will be deliver high-end apparel to the market. A line of seasonal apparel will also launch via Ugly Christmas Sweater for the 2021 holiday season.

Meanwhile, international partnerships include those with Brands for Fans and its KISS branded gin and dark rum launching in the UK this year, as well as Europe, Japan, and Australia; Metal Departments for real money gambling worldwide, Fexpro for apparel and accessories in Mexico, Central America, and South America, Konnekt for apparel and accessories in Japan, and EastPak for bags, backpacks, and accessories in the US, Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Canada.

“Our licensing partners from around the world continue to do an outstanding job collaborating creatively with us to further build our retail program,” said KISS.

“And we are eternally grateful to our legion of fans that continue to engage and support us, and we cannot wait to get back on the road this year with an explosive tour to remember! We’re pumped and can’t wait to celebrate the wildest and hottest show ever!”

Lisa Streff, EVP global licensing at Epic Rights, added: “KISS’ licensing program is hotter than ever. The band’s merch continues to grow bigger and better year after year into new and unique categories with expansion into new markets around the world, as well as the return of their highly successful global tour in this summer.

“The strong interest from our licensing partners worldwide, as well as the remarkable sell-in and sell through success at retail, is a testament to the never-ending strength of this evergreen giant.”

The complete list of new licensees for the KISS brand is as follows: 

Worldwide & International Deals: 

  • Metal Departments (real money gambling) – Worldwide
  • Brands for Fans (spirits) – UK, Europe, Japan, Australia
  • Absolute Garments (tops for H&M) – Worldwide
  • Bradford Exchange (collectibles) – United States, France, Italy, Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Australia, New Zealand
  • Wren & Glory (fashion denim jackets) – Worldwide
  • Ropa Viva (apparel) – Mexico
  • Fexpro (apparel & accessories) – Mexico, Central America, South America
  • Gloria Jeans (apparel) – Russia
  • Konnekt (apparel & accessories) – Japan
  • Replay (apparel collection) – Worldwide
  • Eastpak (bags, backpacks, accessories) – Europe, Middle East, Asia, United States and Canada
  • Aquarius (playing cards, puzzles & board games) – US, Australia, New Zealand, Europe
  • Smartshake (protein drink shakers) – Worldwide
  • Shinko (t-shirts & tote bags) – Japan

 North American Deals: 

  • Dead Sled Coffee (brew-at-home coffee) – United States 
  • Robert Graham (fashion & accessories) – United States, Canada
  • Darring USA (denim & apparel capsule collection) – United States
  • Gotham City (wall art & calendars) – United States, Canada, Mexico
  • Ideastream (storage boxes) – United States,  Canada
  • Lauren Moshi (high-end apparel) – United States
  • My Custom Sports Chair (chairs) – United States, Canada
  • Ugly Christmas Sweater (seasonal apparel) – United States
  • Toynk (toys & games) – United States, Canada
  • J&F Design (plus-size apparel) – United States, Canada
  • Intimo (loungewear, sleepwear, accessories & bags) – United States

Renewed Deals:

  • Liquid Blue (apparel) – United States and Canada 
  • Fun.com (costumes) – Worldwide
  • UD Replicas (costumes) – Worldwide
  • Advanced Graphics (life-size cardboard cut-outs) – United States and Canada
  • Zippo (lighters) – Worldwide

BBC Studios and Immediate Media to launch Bluey Magazine this summer

The multi-award winning preschool series, Bluey has landed a new children’s magazine deal thanks to a partnership between BBC Studios and the popular kids’ publishers, Immediate Media Co.

Bluey Magazine will feature new ways for children to explore the world of Bluey, with open-ended play activities and opportunities for young readers to engage their imagination, whether its exploring the Bluey family home, or making their own Daddy Robot, tidying the playroom, or making their own Bingo toast.

Each issue of the new magazine will come with a sticker sheet, while the first issue will include a collectable ‘paint your own figurines’ play-set enabling fans to create their own Bluey and Bingo.

Produced by Ludo Studio and jointly commissioned by BBC Studios and ABC Children’s, the hit preschool series follows Bluey, a six-year-old Blue Heeler dog, who turns everyday family life into a series of adventures that unfold in unpredictable ways.

Bluey has gained vast audiences worldwide, winning an International Emmy Kids Award in the prestigious Preschool Category in 2020 and becoming Australia’s most popular children’s television show as well as the number one show for preschoolers in its UK time slot on CBeebies.

Fiona Campbell, Immediate youth and children’s publisher, said: “Bluey has been a roaring broadcast success across the globe, and we’re thrilled to be creating content for fans to enjoy, here in the UK. It’s great to finally give ‘little squirts’ (and let’s be honest, their parents too!) what they’ve been waiting for.

“We have an exciting line up of issues and gifts, featuring themes from family to food along with Bluey classics such as Daddy Robot, Magic Asparagus and the Grannies with plenty of games, makes, puzzles and giggles along the way.”

Mandy Thwaites, director, magazines and consumer products, BBC Studios, said: “We’re delighted to work with Immediate to bring the new Bluey Magazine to shelves and can’t wait for you to see it. It’s packed full of exciting activities to keep your children entertained while learning, having fun and sharing their love for Bluey and her family.”

The first issue of Bluey Magazine is on sale from August 4th 2021. Bluey toys were released earlier this month and are now available at retail.

UK and US licensing partners line up to celebrate 40 years of Danger Mouse

Boat Rocker Studios is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its classic and iconic animated series, Danger Mouse with a full roster of licensing partners spanning the UK and US markets, while crossing both the generations and categories through gifting, apparel, collectables, and more.

Tapping into the adult, nostalgia market, as well as the children’s space, licensing partners have been lined up from both sides of the Atlantic with a licensing programme reflective of the cross-generational appeal of the Danger Mouse IP as it celebrates its 40th anniversary milestone this year.

Kate Schlomann, EVP brand management and content marketing, Boat Rocker Studios, said: “Danger Mouse is the world’s greatest secret agent and one of TV’s most iconic animations, packed with action, comedy and drama. The show has achieved incredible global success in both its original incarnation and its thrilling reboot.

“We are delighted to be celebrating its 40th anniversary with an epic range of products which really capture the style and wit of the show.”

Leading the charge in the toy aisle, Funko has signed a worldwide deal to produce a new range of Danger Mouse Classic collectables, including its trademark Pop! stylised vinyl figures and its Vinyl SODA figures of the heroes and villains from the series, including a limited edition Evil Danger Mouse.

Meanwhile, Smiffys will continue to offer its dress-up costumes for both adults and kids. In addition, adult t-shirts will continue to be produced by Trademark Products Limited and further celebratory products will be available later in the year across a wide range of categories, including annuals, novelty, cards and gifting, children’s nightwear and babywear and pet apparel and accessories.

This will all be joined by a new range of adult and children’s Danger Mouse apparel and drinkware, including t-shirts, sweats, hoodies, face wear, socks, and underwear from Bioworld, alongside adult joggers, slippers, bags, and headwear.

Truffle Shuffle, home of cool t-shirts, retro gifts and more, will also be launching a new range of T-shirts and clothing, knitwear, pyjamas, tote bags, mugs, art prints, metal signs, lunchboxes, enamel pins and door mats launching from June 2021 exclusively on TruffleShuffle.com.

The River Group, the UK’s leading independent content innovation agency, will be producing an 84-page Danger Mouse Anniversary Bookazine to launch in October 2021, while Blu Goblin has signed on for a limited-edition anniversary figurine set with proceeds going towards Kids Out Charity.

Over in the US, Redbubble, the leading print-on-demand online marketplace, will be adding Danger Mouse to its extensive range of apparel, accessories and home items.

The Danger Mouse YouTube channel is joining in on the celebrations by showcasing 40 original classic episodes. Fans will have the opportunity to relive some of their hero’s most death-defying and thrilling missions from September 2021.

Both the classic and the new series are widely available to watch on multiple platforms worldwide, including Netflix which holds the global rights for the new Danger Mouse series and also offers the classic seasons.

Originally produced by Cosgrove Hall Films for Thames Television, Danger Mouse ran on ITV from 1981 to 1992 and returned to TV screens with a high-octane 21st-century makeover on CBBC in September 2015.

The rebooted Danger Mouse has proved to be a global hit with 99 new episodes to date over three series.

LEGO and Volkswagen launch latest version of the LEGO VW T2 Camper Van

The LEGO Group has struck up a partnership with the German car manufacturer Volkswagen to launch the latest version of the ubiquitous LEGO Volkswagen T2 Camper Van, expanding upon its portfolio of cult vehicle LEGO builds.

The new LEGO Volkswagen T2 Camper Van is based on its namesake of the late 1960s and ’70s and succeeds the previous LEGO Creator Expert Volkswagen T1 Camper Van, adding a whole host of new features, including a scaled up build and a new paint colour, sliding doors, as well as the trademark T2 wraparound baywindow front windscreen.

Under the hood, the set also features working steering. The LEGO Volkswagen T2 Camper Van’s detailed camping interior is also fully equipped for the open road, with opening cabinets, fridge, sink and a gas stove with a teapot. The set even comes with a set of folding chairs and a surfboard.

Volkswagen Campers are of course synonymous with customisation, and the LEGO Volkswagen T2 Camper Van set is fully prepared for personalisation, with a sticker set including retro decals and a choice of German or US number plates.

LEGO Designer Sven Franic, said: “The Volkswagen Camper is a rare breed of vehicle that commands affection like few others, and we know the LEGO version will bring a lot of fun to people who’ve been lucky enough to have or go camping in one, or always wanted one.

“Though the Volkswagen Camper is no stranger to our LEGO cars collection, this latest iteration brings even more delights for LEGO builders. The meticulously kitted out interior is sure to charm seasoned campers and adventurers alike, while the eye-catching exterior with pop-up roof is a feat of engineering just like the original.”

The LEGO Volkswagen T2 Camper Van goes on sale on August 1st 2021 from LEGO stores and on LEGO.com at RRP 159.99 EUR / 179.99 USD / 149.99 GBP.

Sesame Workshop grows licensing plans across China, Japan, and Germany with new agencies

Sesame Workshop has been an a global escapade this past month, having signed a trio of international licensing agencies with the purpose of strengthening the nonprofit’s licensing programmes across the overseas markets.

The educational organisation behind the iconic Sesame Street brand has been expanding its presence in the European and eastern markets, having tapped the likes of Medialink Group for Greater China, Sony Creative Products for Japan, and Studio 100 Media for Germany and the German speaking market.

Its partnership with Medialink Group will see the outfit act as its licensing agent for Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau, managing the brand licensing of Sesame Street’s consumer products, while is will also build retail relationships and work with local licensees to create promotional activations in the respective territories.

Today, Sesame Street in available on Tencent, BesTV, SiTV, Mampod and Ukids in Greater China, and generates $1.4 billion in worldwide retail sales of licensed products.

“Sesame Street is everywhere kids are,” said Alvin Fu, vice president and general manager of Greater China for Sesame Workshop. “We achieve this by making our innovative video content available through TV and on-demand platforms and working with partners like Medialink to invite kids and fans of all ages to engage with our beloved characters through Sesame Street-branded consumer products and merchandise and interactive experiences.”

“We are delighted to represent Sesame Street in Greater China. It is immensely meaningful for us to work with such a strong and trusted pre-school brand that shares a similar mission to ours. It is our great pleasure to work with Sesame Street,” said Ms Noletta Chiu, managing director of Medialink Animation International Limited and Medialink Cultural & Creative (Guangzhou) Limited.

Meanwhile, Sony Creative Products has been secured as Sesame Street’s licensing agent for the Japanese market, building on the brand’s more than 50 year history and expanding on its portfolio of 150 countries in which it is present, a network through which it generates $1.4 billion in worldwide retail sales of licensed products.

Sesame Street was first broadcast in Japan in 1971. Maximising the awareness of Sesame Street’s core values, Sony Creative Products will eye new brand activations and retail events, as well as pursue further business opportunities. SCP will manage licensing and retail activities for a wide range of demographics, from preschoolers to their caregivers, generation Z, and adults.

Finally, the company has strengthened its European presence with the appointment of Studio 100 Media as its German licensing agency. The firm will manage consumer products for Sesame Workshop’s flagship German brand Sesamstrasse as it celebrates the broadcast of its 50th season in 2023.

Studio 100 will manage special brand activations and retail events.

Stefan Kastenmüller, Sesame Workshop’s general manager for Europe, said: “I am incredibly excited about this strategic partnership with Studio 100 and the opportunity to strengthen the brand in Germany. In addition to overseeing licensing activity, Studio 100 will develop new ways for families to enjoy and deepen their connection with their favorite characters. Fans can expect to see more in themed entertainment, live shows, apps, and new content.”

Studio 100’s managing director, Martin Krieger said: “We are very happy to represent Sesame Workshop in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Many of us grew up with Sesamstrasse and having it now in our portfolio is amazing.

“It’s a perfect fit as we have similar brand values. I believe that our expertise will sustainably contribute in strengthening and expanding Sesamstrasse’s popularity and success story. We look forward to further developing licensing opportunities in important and new categories.”

Anderson Entertainment eyes sci-fi cosplay move with Space: 1999 t-shirts

Anderson Entertainment is helping the sci-fi fandom scene into hyperdrive with the launch of a range of cosplay t-shirts inspired by the crew uniforms worn in the live action classic, Space: 1999.

Founded by Gerry Anderson – the name behind iconic shows including Thunderbirds and Space: 1999, as well as the 2005 reimagining of Captain Scarlet, Anderson Entertainment has been eyeing strong partnerships and product roll out to expand its pop culture offering and growth its presence on a global scale.

The Space: 1999 cosplay long-sleeve t-shirts are replicas of uniforms worn by the crew on Moonbase Alpha. The collection has been designed to closely match the original outfits worn by the show’s cast. As in the show, the colours on the sleeves refer to the different ranks and characters in year one of the iconic 1970s Gerry Anderson series.

The collection begins with the black colourway for John Koenig, leader of Moonbase Alpha, and orange for Alan Carter, chief pilot. These will be followed by red (Main Mission/Command Centre) and purple (security staff).

The outfit’s move into the cosplay category comes hard on the heels of a new agreement with rightsholder ITV Studios, which allows Anderson Entertainment to expand its ranges of product derived from its classic brands. This agreement will enable a wide range of new and innovative products inspired by the best-loved Gerry Anderson creations.

The online Gerry Anderson store, whose existing range includes toys, apparel, model kits, gifts, calendars and homewares, is expanding its category offering significantly this year to meet demand. A major move into publishing, focusing on hardbacks, coffee table books, comic anthologies, series guides, audiobooks and more, is already under way.

Writer, producer, director, and MD of Anderson Entertainment, Jamie Anderson, said: “Gerry Anderson fans have been asking whether the stylish Space: 1999 look will be made available to wear for a long time. Well, the first-ever t-shirts in the classic style of the hit show’s uniforms are now on sale, with more designs on the way. We’re delighted with these designs – and we think the massive Gerry Anderson fanbase will be too.”

Anderson Entertainment is a content production company set up by the late Gerry Anderson, creator of Supercar, Fireball XL5, Stingray, Thunderbirds, Thunderbirds Are Go, Captain Scarlet And The Mysterons, Thunderbird 6, Joe 90 and The Secret Service, along with live-action productions Doppelgänger, UFO, The Protectors, Space:1999 and The Day After Tomorrow, as well as the more recent Terrahawks, Dick Spanner, Space Precinct, Lavender Castle and New Captain Scarlet.

Rolling Stone to launch dedicated UK magazine in licensing deal with Stream Publishing

The iconic music magazine, Rolling Stone is to launch a dedicated UK edition thanks to an exclusive licensing agreement between its owners Penske Media Corporation and Stream Publishing, home of the LGBTQ magazine, Attitude.

The UK edition will launch across print and online and will emerge some 50 years after the first attempt to launch a local titles – which was sponsored by the Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger – dissolved within its first few months.

The launches will go live this autumn but the frequency of the UK print title is still to be confirmed. Its New York flagship magazine is a monthly print publication. Stream, a content creation and live events agency will begin to launch live events under the Rolling Stones brand in spring 2022.

Darren Styles OBE, managing director of Stream, said: “The arrival of Rolling Stone in the UK is not only a hugely exciting development for our brilliant team, but also fantastic news for the UK music and entertainment industries which deserve the showcase and platform that this iconic brand will deliver.

“A Rolling Stone cover is the picture worth 10,000 words and UK artists will now have opportunities of their own to achieve just that, as well as access to the RS network that stretches well beyond its native USA to Australia, CHina, and more than a dozen other countries.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to search out UK talent to commentate on one of the most fascinating political ages this country has seen and have the opportunity to bring to light the kind of long-reads and investigative work made famous by the like of Hunter S Thompson, P J O’Rourke and Tom Wolfe

“Rolling Stone UK, here as there, will share the stories that need to be told, shine light into dark corners and yet celebrate too, that which entertains us. There is no title better suited to these times.”

Rolling Stone president and chief operating officer, Gus Wenner, said he “couldn’t be more thrilled about the launch.

“The opportunity to bring our content to a country we have a longstanding history with and admiration for feels right. The UK is the birthplace of some of the most iconic musicians, many of whom have played a significant role in shaping our legacy.

“Today is the beginning of another exciting chapter in our evolution.”