He’ll have a Caninety Nine, please! Battersea launches a new ice cream range just for dogs

The UK’s 160 year old animal charity, Battersea is demonstrating its flair for canine cuisine with the launch of an ice cream range specially made for dogs.

Surprisingly not called Caninety Nine, the range is made using real fruit puress and includes Strawberry and Apple & Banana flavours, and has been produced by Jude’s, Britain’s first Carbon Negative ice cream and desserts specialist. The deal was brokered by Battersea’s brand licensing agent, The Point. 1888.

Under the partner, five per cent of the sale proceeds of the range will be invested back into the animal charity.

Chow Mezger, MD of Jude’s, said: “As a family of dog-lovers we are delighted to launch Ice Cream for Dogs so now the whole family, including the pooch, can enjoy our utterly delicious ice cream. Our family Jack Russell Tinker loved being chief taste tester and we’re pleased to say that Ice Cream for Dogs has her full approval.

“Working with Battersea has also been fantastic, and we couldn’t be more proud to support their vital work to help dogs and cats everywhere.”

Sarah Van Kirk, licensing manager at Battersea, added: “Battersea is delighted to be working with an innovative and environmentally conscious UK based company like Jude’s. We’re really excited about this collaboration with royalties from each product going directly towards the care of dogs and cats.”

The Point.1888 looks to create new products based on the gaps it sees at retail; rather than what it thinks the brand’s target demographic might like. This supports a higher chance of retailer buy-in and a better sales performance. In 2020, it delivered record-breaking sales using this approach in Iceland for an ice cream range inspired by the iconic sweet brands of its client Barratts.

Gabbi Langdorf, senior international and brand manager at The Point.1888, said: “We love working with brands with purpose and are thrilled that such an innovative product will be raising funds to help support Battersea’s important work. The timing of the launch couldn’t be better – long may this great weather continue.”

The ice cream range is now available to buy from Ocado.

Fred & Ginger pack Popeye punch into pet products portfolio

The design-led pet product specialist, Fred & Ginger has signed up to create a range of pet treats and accessories based on the classic animation brand, Popeye. The deal was brokered by Bulldog Licensing, the European licensing agency for the property as it continues to grow its consumer products portfolio in the UK.

Fred & Ginger is set to create a full collection of feeding mats and bowls, pet beds, toys, accessories, collars and leads, along with a range of treats, including Easter eggs and advent calendars, as well as pet snacks inspired by the iconic strong man.

Having recently celebrated its 90th anniversary, Popeye remains a popular brand in the UK and the world, with a social presence of 9.8 million fans. The TV show is broadcast on Pluto TV (Theatrical Cartoons, YouTube Shorts, additional Popeye Cartoons). 

The latest deal joins an expanding licensing programme, with two new deals announced at the end of last year, Ecell and Ideal Home Shopping for tech accessories and crafting lines respectively. Additionally, both Fashion UK and Bro Global have renewed their deals for the iconic character.

The offering now spans a range of categories including apparel, accessories, dress-up, and Bulldog plans to further strengthen the portfolio in the near future.

Rob Corney, MD, Bulldog Licensing, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Fred & Ginger on board. The team has a robust experience in creating excellent licensed ranges for pet owners, and we’re excited to see their new creations for Popeye as the brand continues to delight fans throughout the UK.”

Ben & Jerry’s enters pets market with Doggie Desserts and branded accessories

The globally renowned ice cream company, Ben & Jerry’s is taking a new leap into the pets market with the unveiling of two new flavours designed exclusively for canines.

Called Doggie Desserts, the new launch is a range of frozen treats billed by Ben & Jerry’s as ‘paws-itively perfect for your pet,’ specifically formulated for dogs with a sunflower butter base. The two flavours: Pontch’s Mix (with peanut butter and pretzel swirls) and Rosie’s Batch (with pumpkin  and mini cookies) are sold as ‘just what a good dog needs after a long wal with their human.’

“We know our fans love their dogs and treat them like family,” said Lindsay Bumps, a Ben & Jerry’s global marketing specialist who also happens to be a certified veterinary technician. “We created this product line so pups can enjoy something even better than belly rubs. Doggie Desserts are the sweetest treat they’ll ever put their paws on.”

Pontch’s Mix and Rosie’s Batch were named after two real dogs in the Ben & Jerry’s office – an affectionate Frenchie and a rescue mutt of mixed heritage. As a dog-friendly workplace, the Ben & Jerry’s headquarters in Vermont often has up to 40 pups curled up under desks, keeping employees company.

In addition to the two new Doggie Desserts, Ben & Jerry’s has partnered with like-minded suppliers to offer must-have pet accessories like a 6′ custom tie dye leash made from recycled water bottles and a plush cone toy stuffed with recycled fill.