ViacomCBS lands global license deal with Benetton for Garfield sleepwear and accessories

ViacomCBS Consumer Products has landed all four paws on a global license agreement for the design, production, and distribution of the first Garfield collection for the Undercolors of Benetton brand.

The agreement includes the launch of the first collection of underwear and pyjamas for both children and adults developed by Benetton in a collection reflective of the firm’s multicoloured philosophy, while channeling the spirit of the incurably lazy, lasagna-loving Garfield.

The collection will be completed with a wide selection of Garfield accessories, including toiletry bags, socks, and slippers.

“We’re thrilled to launch this unique project and collaborate with such a global brand like the Benetton Group,” said Mark Kingston, senior vice president, International Licensing, ViacomCBS Consumer Products. “Garfield is true global icon with a strong transgenerational appeal and we’re confident that this quality collection will not disappoint Garfield fans and Benetton consumers.”

The Garfield collection is now available and will be distributed exclusively in the Benetton retail network, United & Undercolors, in all stores around the world.

Sanrio and Marks & Spencer launch extensive Mr Men & Little Miss clothing, accessories and bedding range

Sanrio has launched a new collaborative collection of clothing, accessories, and bedding with Marks & Spencer for its iconic Mr Men and Little Miss brand with a range featuring an ensemble cast of Roger Hargreave’s best-loved characters.

The launch arrives as part of the ongoing celebrations of Mr Men and Little Miss’ 50th anniversary and has been designed to evoke nostalgia with parents and inspire imagination in children alike.

Launched on February 4th, the collection feature favourites such as Mr Happy, Little Miss Sunshine and more. With a wide choice of exclusive designs, the range includes daywear, sleepwear, accessories and bedding.

Featuring practical rompers for newborns, joggers and jeans for everyday comfort, printed hoodies, cosy pyjama sets and fun accessories, the collection boasts that ‘there’s something for every kid.’

Favourites from the new range include the Mr Happy ‘Smile Often’ Sweatshirt, Mr Strong ‘Strong and Fearless’ top, and the Mr Men ‘Better Together’ Pyjama Set.

LEGO builds multi-year partnership with Adidas to ‘inspire creativity and foster play’

The LEGO Group has struck up a multi-year partnership with Adidas to co-create a range of new products aimed at inspiring creativity to foster a more playful, positive and inclusive world for adults and children from all backgrounds and sporting abilities.

The partnership will span products such as footwear, apparel, and hardware, having kicked off last month with the unveiling of the limited edition Adidas Originals ZX 8000 LEGO sneaker.

“It’s our mission to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow and help children be creative and learn the skills they need to thrive,” said Julia Goldin, chief marketing officer at the LEGO Group.

“Great play experiences are a fun way to learn and build creative confidence, and so is sport – and that’s is why we’re so excited about this partnership. Together, play and sport let children experience collaboration and the principles of fair-play, as well as build mental resilience. These are crucial life-skills that can help children unlock their full potential.”

Aimee Arana, SVP general manager, global training at Adidas, added “Our goal is to use the power of sport to change lives, grounded in creativity as the vehicle to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds. An innovative partner like the LEGO Group allows us to together imagine up new concepts and products that will spark creativity in an inclusive way, particularly helping the development of younger generations.”

Initial partnership discussions started in 2017, and in 2018 the LEGO Group welcomed the adidas team to LEGO House in Denmark to let creativity run wild and determine how best to foster a true fusion of the two brands.

That meeting kicked-off what promises to be a dynamic and fast-paced collaboration, with the first products scheduled to drop before the end of 2020. Products for various sports and an active lifestyle will launch in December and throughout 2021, aimed at both kids and adults and crossing different LEGO themes.