Category Archives: Entertainment

Mattel and Sanrio to launch new doll range across Amazon and Smyths Toys in the UK

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Global toy maker Mattel and the lifestyle brand Sanrio are kicking off their new partnership with the launch of a new toy and accessory collection featuring Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Badtz Maru across Amazon and Smyths Toys in the UK from January 2021.

The never-before-seen collection will tap into the current nostalgia trend and will include a new doll line featuring fun characters of fashion, all accompanied by Hello Kitty and Friends. Fans can expect to find play-sets, surprise elements, collectables, and stationery.

Highlights from the collection will include:

Sanrio Double Dippers: Sanrio Double Dippers collectible sets are filled with sweet surprises. Each set includes one Hello Kitty figure, one removable hat accessory, and one doughnut or cake accessory

Hello Kitty and Friends Éclair Doll: Éclair doll comes dressed in trendy clothes and accessories like glittery high-top sneakers, a vinyl skirt, and bow headpiece to match her bestie, Hello Kitty.

Hello Kitty and Friends Stylie Doll: Stylie doll comes dressed in trendy clothes and accessories like glittery high-top sneakers, a vinyl skirt, and bow headpiece to match her bestie, My Melody.

Hello Kitty and Friends Jazzlyn Doll: For fashion play, Jazzlyn doll comes dressed in trendy clothes and accessories like glittery high-top sneakers, a vinyl skirt, and headpiece to match her bestie, Badtz-Maru.

Hello Kitty and Friends Minis Hamburger Diner Playset: Savor the fun with this Hello Kitty Hamburger compact loaded with fun surprises.

Hello Kitty and Friends Minis Tea Party Playset: Pinkies up for this Hello Kitty Tea Party compact filled with surprises.

Hello Kitty and Friends Minis Beach Pencil Playset: Make a splash with this Hello Kitty Watermelon beach-themed pencil box set that features a playset, storage, and stationery supplies.

Hello Kitty and Friends Minis Carnival Pencil Playset: This Hello Kitty Candy Carnival pencil box set features a playset, storage, and stationery supplies.

Hello Kitty Plush: Made with soft fabrics and at 8-inches tall, she’s the perfect size for take-along play.

Sanrio Surprise Stamper: These Sanrio Surprise Minis collectibles are triple the fun, with eight to collect. Each figure is a self-stamper, pencil-topper, and keychain.

“This collection offers Sanrio fans a whole new way to experience the brand in a fun and entertaining way,” said Jill Koch, SVP of sales and business development at Sanrio, Inc. “Over the past 60 years, Sanrio has cemented a legacy built on the foundation of Small Gift, Big Smile and this collection with Mattel encompasses that so well.”

Silvia Figini, chief operating officer Sanrio – EMEA, India and Oceania, Mr Men – Worldwide, added: “The toy range will be an amazing combination of both cuteness and freshness and we are sure consumers will be excited: both young girls and their mothers will love spending time together playing with the tiny accessories and the surprise collectibles.”

Poetic Brands teams with Sunny Side Up to launch Let’s Get Lyrical range based on famous song lyrics

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Poetic Brands has partnered with the licensing agency, Sunny Side Up to launch the Let’s Get Lyrical range of day and night wear, a collection that will be based upon the lyrics of well-known songs.

The Let’s Get Lyrical range will include all baby layette fashion daywear and nightwear; children’s daywear, outerwear, nightwear and essentials, swimwear, towelling ponchos and beach towels; adult daywear, outerwear, nightwear and essentials, swimwear and beach towels; along with hard and soft shell suitcases, luggage and bags. 

Sunny Side Up Licensing represents licensing opportunities utilising some of the largest libraries of song lyrics both in the UK, and globally. The agency holds representation rights to the copyright of millions of songs with the world’s leading music publishers. In the new deal with Poetic Brands, lyrics will be applied to apparel and accessories for every age group. 

“Music is in our lives every day. Something will happen and more often than not, a memory will trigger a song or vice versa,” said Anne Bradford, director at Poetic Brands. “Having worked with Michael on a number of projects over the years, we quickly started to talk when I arrived at Poetic Brands and have been developing product to share at retail throughout lockdown. 

“What we love about this is being able to take it from conception (maternity wear) right the way through baby, kids and adults’ apparel. The opportunities here are endless.”

Michael Gottlieb, director, Sunny Side Up Licensing, added: “Lyrics are the poetry of our time and music has become the soundtrack to people’s lives. Sunny Side Up Licensing is delighted to be working with Poetic Brands to bring lyrics to life on apparel through what we expect to be a long partnership.”

Peanuts Worldwide continues its 70th celebrations with new European and Middle East partners

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As Peanuts continues to celebrate its 70th anniversary this year, its licensing agency, WildBrain CPLG has inked a new wave of deals across Europe and the Middle East, with new collections inspired by Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the Peanuts gang.

The swathe of new deals with take the Peanuts property into new partnerships across fashion, accessories, homewares and gifts for children and adults.

New collaborations in the UK include Cath Kidston for a Peanuts 70th anniversary collection spanning fashion, homewares and accessories; Vayyu for an autumn/winter fashion collection for men and women; Cribstar for its second Peanuts kids’ apparel collection; Flamingo Candles for a range of scented candles; and Bamford for adult watches.

Completing the UK line-up is Tatty Devine who will launch its second Peanuts-inspired jewellery collection, and BeArty who will launch a collection of digital wall art.

Next, and from Spain, Bershka is launching a fashion collection; Andres Gallardo is on board for a range of handmade jewellery; and Woodys has created a range of 70th anniversary eyewear featuring the Peanuts gang. Also in the region, Panapop has launched a range of accessories and watches, and fashion retailer Desigual launched an apparel collection for both kids and adults.

In Germany, new collections include MDM for 70th anniversary commemorative coins, and s.Oliver for a Peanuts women’s fashion collaboration. Together with Peanuts Worldwide, WildBrain CPLG executed a publicity campaign for Peanuts’ 70th anniversary in Germany which resulted in extensive broadcast, print, online and social media coverage.

For the Middle East and North Africa, Babyshop has created a themed children’s fashion collection.

Tara Botwick, senior director, territory management EMEA for Peanuts Worldwide, said: “It’s been an exciting year for Peanuts and it’s fantastic to see the continued expansion of the merchandise offering for fans across Europe and beyond.

“From on-trend fashion collections, through thoughtful gifts and luxury accessories, these new ranges offer something for Peanuts fans of all ages.”

Charles M. Schulz first introduced Charlie Brown to the world in the comics pages of seven American newspapers in 1950. In the following days and years, he was joined by friends Lucy and Linus, his sister Sally, and, of course, everyone’s favorite beagle, Snoopy.

Seven decades later, the Peanuts gang has left an indelible mark on global pop culture and this fall has seen an abundance of merchandise celebrating the brand’s 70th anniversary around the world.

Peanuts Worldwide continues its 70th celebrations with new European and Middle East partners

Posted on by

As Peanuts continues to celebrate its 70th anniversary this year, its licensing agency, WildBrain CPLG has inked a new wave of deals across Europe and the Middle East, with new collections inspired by Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the Peanuts gang.

The swathe of new deals with take the Peanuts property into new partnerships across fashion, accessories, homewares and gifts for children and adults.

New collaborations in the UK include Cath Kidston for a Peanuts 70th anniversary collection spanning fashion, homewares and accessories; Vayyu for an autumn/winter fashion collection for men and women; Cribstar for its second Peanuts kids’ apparel collection; Flamingo Candles for a range of scented candles; and Bamford for adult watches.

Completing the UK line-up is Tatty Devine who will launch its second Peanuts-inspired jewellery collection, and BeArty who will launch a collection of digital wall art.

Next, and from Spain, Bershka is launching a fashion collection; Andres Gallardo is on board for a range of handmade jewellery; and Woodys has created a range of 70th anniversary eyewear featuring the Peanuts gang. Also in the region, Panapop has launched a range of accessories and watches, and fashion retailer Desigual launched an apparel collection for both kids and adults.

In Germany, new collections include MDM for 70th anniversary commemorative coins, and s.Oliver for a Peanuts women’s fashion collaboration. Together with Peanuts Worldwide, WildBrain CPLG executed a publicity campaign for Peanuts’ 70th anniversary in Germany which resulted in extensive broadcast, print, online and social media coverage.

For the Middle East and North Africa, Babyshop has created a themed children’s fashion collection.

Tara Botwick, senior director, territory management EMEA for Peanuts Worldwide, said: “It’s been an exciting year for Peanuts and it’s fantastic to see the continued expansion of the merchandise offering for fans across Europe and beyond.

“From on-trend fashion collections, through thoughtful gifts and luxury accessories, these new ranges offer something for Peanuts fans of all ages.”

Charles M. Schulz first introduced Charlie Brown to the world in the comics pages of seven American newspapers in 1950. In the following days and years, he was joined by friends Lucy and Linus, his sister Sally, and, of course, everyone’s favorite beagle, Snoopy.

Seven decades later, the Peanuts gang has left an indelible mark on global pop culture and this fall has seen an abundance of merchandise celebrating the brand’s 70th anniversary around the world.

Pop culture specialist Boss Fight Studio partners with King Features to launch Popeye the Sailor action figures

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The pop culture specialist and action figures aficionado, Boss Fight Studio has struck up a new partnership with King Features Syndicate to create and launch a range of action figures and collectables based on Popeye the Sailor comics and cartoons.

The deal was brokered by FanGirl Consulting and Brand Management and marks the latest in a long line up of cult classic brands to have joined the Boss Fight Studio portfolio. An expert in the pop culture market, Boss Fight Studios already holds the license for Flash Gordon, The Phantom, and The Little Prince.

“Like so many, I grew up watching the classic Popeye animated cartoons,” said Andrew Franks, partner and art director at Boss Fight. “As an adult, I was drawn back to Popeye by E.C. Segar’s brilliant original comic strip. To be able to bring these characters to life as fully poseable toys is a dream.”

Jarred M. Goro, VP North American licensing at King Features, added: “This will be the fourth license we work with Boss Fight Studio on and we know their approach will bring these toys to life and quickly become fan favorites.”

Founded in 2013, Boss Fight Studio is known for its highly articulated, poseable action figures. The first wave of Popeye Classics action figures, anticipated to hit shelves late summer 2021, will include Popeye, Olive Oyl, Bluto and Castor Oyl.

The Popeye Classics figures will bring a new cult favorite to life and be a great complement to the Boss Fight arsenal of licenses.

“We’re digging deep into the comic strips to deliver Popeye toys like you’ve never seen before. Authentic styling, super articulation and great accessories – even packing in smaller characters like Swee’ Pea, Eugene The Jeep and Bernice The Whiffle Hen as bonuses,” added Franks.

“We can’t wait to bring these toys to market. We’re sure they will delight Popeye fans, and celebrate the rich 90 plus year legacy of these iconic characters.”

Pop culture specialist Boss Fight Studio partners with King Features to launch Popeye the Sailor action figures

Posted on by

The pop culture specialist and action figures aficionado, Boss Fight Studio has struck up a new partnership with King Features Syndicate to create and launch a range of action figures and collectables based on Popeye the Sailor comics and cartoons.

The deal was brokered by FanGirl Consulting and Brand Management and marks the latest in a long line up of cult classic brands to have joined the Boss Fight Studio portfolio. An expert in the pop culture market, Boss Fight Studios already holds the license for Flash Gordon, The Phantom, and The Little Prince.

“Like so many, I grew up watching the classic Popeye animated cartoons,” said Andrew Franks, partner and art director at Boss Fight. “As an adult, I was drawn back to Popeye by E.C. Segar’s brilliant original comic strip. To be able to bring these characters to life as fully poseable toys is a dream.”

Jarred M. Goro, VP North American licensing at King Features, added: “This will be the fourth license we work with Boss Fight Studio on and we know their approach will bring these toys to life and quickly become fan favorites.”

Founded in 2013, Boss Fight Studio is known for its highly articulated, poseable action figures. The first wave of Popeye Classics action figures, anticipated to hit shelves late summer 2021, will include Popeye, Olive Oyl, Bluto and Castor Oyl.

The Popeye Classics figures will bring a new cult favorite to life and be a great complement to the Boss Fight arsenal of licenses.

“We’re digging deep into the comic strips to deliver Popeye toys like you’ve never seen before. Authentic styling, super articulation and great accessories – even packing in smaller characters like Swee’ Pea, Eugene The Jeep and Bernice The Whiffle Hen as bonuses,” added Franks.

“We can’t wait to bring these toys to market. We’re sure they will delight Popeye fans, and celebrate the rich 90 plus year legacy of these iconic characters.”

Elmer the Patchwork Elephant welcomes Danilo and Robert Frederick to the licensing roster

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Elmer the Patchwork Elephant has welcomed two new licensing partners to its growing roster, as the popular publishing property now makes its way into the calendars and greetings, and gifts and stationery sectors.

A duo of deals brokered by Metrostar, Danilo has joined the line-up to publish calendars, greetings cards, gift wrap and bags, while Robert Frederick will create gifts, arts and crafts, and stationery.

Existing licensees are also busy working on new Elmer products. Amscan has renewed its dress up licence and Rainbow Designs will be adding new lines to its Elmer portfolio. Paul Dennicci has also developed the first Elmer babywear collection for Primark.

New products from all will be launched in 2021.

Claire Potter, Metrostar’s managing director, said: “Elmer is proving to be a very reliable performer in a number of product categories across an increasingly large retail base. Metrostar started working on Elmer in 2016 and in every year since he has gained new licensees and added new retailers to the programme.

“As well as the addition of Danilo and Robert Frederick, in 2021 we will see new Elmer products in Primark, Sainsbury’s, Matalan, John Lewis and Waterstones.”

Paul Black, Andresen Press brand director, added: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Danilo and Robert Frederick to our licensing programme.

“Both are perfect partners for Elmer and we look forward to working with them to develop and promote new products. We would also like to thank our family of Elmer licensees for working so hard this year. We know how challenging it has been and really appreciate their continued support and enthusiasm for Elmer.”

Elmer the Patchwork Elephant welcomes Danilo and Robert Frederick to the licensing roster

Posted on by

Elmer the Patchwork Elephant has welcomed two new licensing partners to its growing roster, as the popular publishing property now makes its way into the calendars and greetings, and gifts and stationery sectors.

A duo of deals brokered by Metrostar, Danilo has joined the line-up to publish calendars, greetings cards, gift wrap and bags, while Robert Frederick will create gifts, arts and crafts, and stationery.

Existing licensees are also busy working on new Elmer products. Amscan has renewed its dress up licence and Rainbow Designs will be adding new lines to its Elmer portfolio. Paul Dennicci has also developed the first Elmer babywear collection for Primark.

New products from all will be launched in 2021.

Claire Potter, Metrostar’s managing director, said: “Elmer is proving to be a very reliable performer in a number of product categories across an increasingly large retail base. Metrostar started working on Elmer in 2016 and in every year since he has gained new licensees and added new retailers to the programme.

“As well as the addition of Danilo and Robert Frederick, in 2021 we will see new Elmer products in Primark, Sainsbury’s, Matalan, John Lewis and Waterstones.”

Paul Black, Andresen Press brand director, added: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Danilo and Robert Frederick to our licensing programme.

“Both are perfect partners for Elmer and we look forward to working with them to develop and promote new products. We would also like to thank our family of Elmer licensees for working so hard this year. We know how challenging it has been and really appreciate their continued support and enthusiasm for Elmer.”

Rilakkuma lands second series on Netflix as Sagoo sees licensing programme ‘growing apace’ in Europe

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Rilakkuma, the cute Kawaii bear, will be returning to Netflix for a second series, following a successful debut back in 2019 that has given life to a growing licensing programme managed by the independent agency, Sagoo Licensing.

Production of the new stop-motion animated series is now underway with the title Rilakkuma’s Theme Park Adventure. The series depicts an active day of incidents and meetings that take place when Rilakkuma, Korilakkuma, Kiiroitori, and Kaoru go to play in an amusement park that is about to close.

San-X’s Rilakkuma brand made its streaming debut in 2019, also on Netflix, when Rilakkuma and Kaoru debuted. The series featured 13 episodes following the duo’s friendship and daily life, as the popular bear went to live in his friend, Kaoru’s apartment.

The fresh content will provide a further boost to the Rilakkuma brand, which is already one of the most popular brands in Japan and is rapidly gaining traction throughout Europe. The growth is largely thanks to the property’s online presence, along with a plethora of new and exciting products coming to market.

Since working with San-X, Sagoo has secured deals with Difuzed for apparel, Graine Créative for arts and crafts, and Pioupiou & Merveilles (Shokid) for toys and gifts, with more to be announced over the coming months. 

Veronique Pichon, president, Sagoo, said: “We’re very excited to see the return of Rilakkuma to Netflix following such a successful debut last year. The brand is growing apace throughout Europe and consumer demand for licensed product is also increasing. 

“We are looking forward to further building the consumer products offering as new fans are welcomed into the wonderful world of Rilakkuma via his latest Netflix adventures.”

Rilakkuma lands second series on Netflix as Sagoo sees licensing programme ‘growing apace’ in Europe

Posted on by

Rilakkuma, the cute Kawaii bear, will be returning to Netflix for a second series, following a successful debut back in 2019 that has given life to a growing licensing programme managed by the independent agency, Sagoo Licensing.

Production of the new stop-motion animated series is now underway with the title Rilakkuma’s Theme Park Adventure. The series depicts an active day of incidents and meetings that take place when Rilakkuma, Korilakkuma, Kiiroitori, and Kaoru go to play in an amusement park that is about to close.

San-X’s Rilakkuma brand made its streaming debut in 2019, also on Netflix, when Rilakkuma and Kaoru debuted. The series featured 13 episodes following the duo’s friendship and daily life, as the popular bear went to live in his friend, Kaoru’s apartment.

The fresh content will provide a further boost to the Rilakkuma brand, which is already one of the most popular brands in Japan and is rapidly gaining traction throughout Europe. The growth is largely thanks to the property’s online presence, along with a plethora of new and exciting products coming to market.

Since working with San-X, Sagoo has secured deals with Difuzed for apparel, Graine Créative for arts and crafts, and Pioupiou & Merveilles (Shokid) for toys and gifts, with more to be announced over the coming months. 

Veronique Pichon, president, Sagoo, said: “We’re very excited to see the return of Rilakkuma to Netflix following such a successful debut last year. The brand is growing apace throughout Europe and consumer demand for licensed product is also increasing. 

“We are looking forward to further building the consumer products offering as new fans are welcomed into the wonderful world of Rilakkuma via his latest Netflix adventures.”