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New partners, new products, new content and new events for the world's number 1 pre-school brand
 
LONDON, 26 January, 2010 - HIT Entertainment, a leading provider of quality children's entertainment and owner of the world's number 1 pre-school brand - Thomas & Friends™ - is sending everyone's favourite true blue engine on an exciting global journey in 2010 to celebrate 65 years of making tracks to great destinations.
 
Starting in January, new partners will come aboard to unveil new Thomas & Friends products; long term licensees will debut anniversary items; new content will launch on TV, DVD and online; themed live events will take place on four continents and top tier partners across retail and marketing will mark the exciting milestone with special celebratory activities.
 
Consumer Products
HIT Entertainment continues to have strong partner relationships, and this year both long term and new licensees are set to unveil a wealth of products across key categories.
 
Starting in January 2010 Fisher-Price, the new global master toy partner for Thomas & Friends, will unveil and begin to roll-out itsTake-n-Play line of portable playsets in the US, UK, EMEA and Latin America along with an array of preschool items, including puzzles, games, bath toys, plush, push 'n go and pullback vehicles and talking preschool vehicles.  Fisher-Price will also launch new TrackMaster sets in the US and South America, while in the UK and EMEA Tomy will continue with new TrackMaster products and pre-school items until Fisher-Price take over the TrackMaster brand in the Fall.
 
In Asia, Fisher-Price will launch Take-n-Play across all territories and will take over the TrackMaster rights from Funtastic(Australia/NZ) as of the Fall.  In Japan, Thomas & Friends' consumer products will mark the anniversary with the debut of the first local character - Japanese engine Hiro. New toys for this market will come from TakaraTomy, Pilot, TakaraTomy Arts and apparel fromWorld Inc.
 
Long term partner, Learning Curve, will continue to manufacture and market the Thomas Wooden Railway, and will launch a new "Early Engineers" line, designed specifically for children as young as 18-months old.  The Early Engineers Line features larger engines that are perfect for small hands, tracktiles that provide secure layouts and simple to use destinations. This line is compatible with the rest of the Thomas Wooden Railway.
 
Additional new partners for 2010 include global licensor MEGA Brands who will launch an all-new line of Thomas & Friends construction toys; Flair and Sambro will introduce new ranges of Thomas Arts and Crafts products for Spring 2010 in the UK; American Greetings (North America) will introduce a full array of Thomas & Friends party supplies and decorations, greeting cards, invitations, stickers, gift packaging and seasonal items, such as Valentine's Day cards and Christmas ornaments; Global Designs (US) will bringThomas & Friends backpacks and accessories to the mass and mid-tier market; Jay Franco (US) will unveil new Thomas & Friendsbedding designs and Upper Deck (US) will introduce new Thomas & Friends trading cards.
 
Publishing
In the UK, five new characters join the Thomas Story Library in May, taking the collection to 65 books in the 65th year. A special anniversary edition of the original Thomas the Tank Engine book by the Rev. W Awdry will follow in June containing an introduction featuring rare photographs and sketches. All titles are published by Egmont for the international markets.
 
'Thomas to the Rescue' story book was selected for World Book Day in the UK and Ireland this year and on Thursday, 4 March, a film of Sir Topham Hatt (The Fat Controller) reading the book will be screened to children in schools around the country.
 
In North America long time publishing partners Random House will also publish special Thomas & Friends titles, including a re-release of the classic 'Happy Birthday Thomas.'
 
Apparel
In the apparel category, key partners and retailers including Topsville in the US and Next and Marks and Spencer in the UK, will be unveiling ranges with a vintage theme featuring original illustrations of Thomas. Special 65th anniversary swingtags will also be present on select items.
 
Broadcast
Kicking off the anniversary year, in Q1 2010 Thomas & Friends will premiere a new series on FIVE in the UK, Treehouse TV in Canada, TV Tokyo in Japan and in Q4 in the US. Now produced in full CG animation, Thomas & Friends is more vibrant, detailed and engaging than ever. For the first time, Thomas and his engine friends speak in their own voices, allowing them to tell their own stories of teamwork, determination and friendship.  New characters to join the adventures on the Island of Sodor include Japanese engine Hiro, Victor and Kevin from the Sodor Steamworks, and Charlie, a new steam engine with a reputation for fun and mischief!
 
Home Entertainment
Several new Thomas DVD titles will be released in 2010. A special 'Best of Thomas' anniversary edition will hit shelves in the UK in April and in the US in June, and a box set of the classic series' 1-11 will be released in the UK in the Fall.
 
'Misty Island Rescue', a brand new 60-minute CG animated special is currently planned for release around the world, in counties including the UK, US, Australia, Germany, Benelux and Spain this Fall. It will be launched with cinematic premieres in all major markets.
 
In Asia Pacific, 'Hero of the Rails', which enjoyed much success in other markets during 2009, will be at the forefront of the Thomas DVD offering. It will launch in Q2 in Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan and later in the year in other Asia Pacific markets.
 
Film
In Los Angeles, work has commenced on a theatrical feature for Thomas & Friends. Scriptwriter Josh Klausner ("Shrek the Third") issigned on to develop the script to bring Thomas to the big screen
 
Live Events
'Day Out With Thomas' which enables families to enter the magical world of Thomas & Friends will mark the 65th anniversary with special celebratory events. In the UK, 7 heritage railways will stage themed parties, while in the US and Canada a "Celebration Tour" will visit heritage railroads in more than 45 cities. These unique 'Day Out With Thomas' events will offer children the opportunity to ride on a nearly 20-ton replica of Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt (The Fat Controller) and engage in a variety of other anniversary-themed crafts and activities.
 
In the US, Six Flags America, based outside of Washington DC, will open the 5th and largest Thomas Town on Memorial Day weekend 2010. Featuring 10 rides, the new Thomas Town is more than double the size of any existing Thomas Town. Kids and parents will celebrate Thomas' anniversary with special parties at all Six Flags locations on 6/5 (5th June). And in the UK, Drayton Manor Park, home of Europe's Thomas Land, will round off the year with the ultimate 65th anniversary extravaganza event on Saturday, 4 December. Similar celebrations are planned in Thomas Land Japan at Fujikyu Highland near Tokyo.
 
2010 also sees the launch of the 2nd Thomas theatrical tour entitled "A Circus Comes to Town". It will open on Friday, 10 September and tour across the UK and Ireland until Sunday, 8 May 2011. Premier Stage Productions will be producing and promoting "A Circus Comes to Town" in conjunction with AEG Themestar.
 
Digital
The brand's main website, www.thomasandfriends.com, is getting a CGI makeover timed to the 65th anniversary with new navigation, functionality and content. In the UK, US, Australia and Canada completely redesigned homepages have launched featuring an all-new Engine Depot, a 65th anniversary section, and more than 60 new activities. All major markets will follow suit in 2010. Localised versions of the website also exist in a number of countries, including China, Japan and Korea. In the UK, a 65th anniversary landing page has been especially created, providing a hub for fans to access all the exciting events and activities slated for 2010.  A similar one will also launch in the US in March.
 
Additionally, HIT launched the first Thomas & Friends iPhone app and official Facebook Fan page. The app, selling for $1.99, contains Thomas & Friendsmatching games, puzzles and mazes designed especially for children aged 2-5 years old.  The official Facebook fan page includes the latest news, videos and photos from Thomas & Friends.
 
Marketing Support
In the UK, a special guide "The Little Blue Book" has been distributed through retailers, VUE cinemas, Thomas DVD cases and nurseries, providing a complete overview of activities taking place throughout the celebratory year. One highlight is a Thomas themed month in March at Hamleys, featuring an interactive branded window display, alongside engaging activities such as an attempt to make the longest Thomas train out of cake (on Sunday 7th March).
 
In Asia Pacific, individual countries will launch the anniversary year in their own unique ways. For example, in Taiwan Thomas the Tank Engine will appear for the first time ever as a festive giant lantern in Taipei city as part of the Chinese New Year celebrations (February 20 - March 7). Additional marketing activity in the region will be pegged to the theme of parent-child quality time. Competitions will run offering families the opportunity to visit one of the Thomas Lands around the globe.
 
"This global celebration is unprecedented in the brand's 65 year history and befitting a character so loved around the world," said Rick Glankler, SVP, Global Brand Management, HIT Entertainment. "Everyone's favourite number 1 engine is paired with a wide array of top-tier partners, all united in their support and excitement for this powerhouse brand.  2010 is going to be an exciting year for Thomas on his journey to another 65 years of great destinations!"
 
Peter Byrne, EVP Consumer Products International, HIT Entertainment added, "Thomas' 65th Anniversary really represents a unique sales opportunity for all of our partners around the world. There is incredible momentum building across product, marketing and promotions, which is guaranteed to drive the Thomas brand to whole new level. Activity throughout 2010 really cements Thomas & Friends' status as the undisputed number 1 global pre-school brand".
 
ends
 
About HIT Entertainment
HIT Entertainment is one of the world's leading independent children's entertainment producers and rights-owners. HIT's portfolio includes properties, such as Barney™, Bob the Builder™, Thomas & Friends™, Pingu™, Fireman Sam™, Angelina Ballerina™ and Rainbow Magic™. HIT represents Chapman Entertainment's Fifi and the Flowertots™ and Roary the Racing Car™ in North America  as well as Wallace & Gromit™, Shaun the Sheep™,Timmy Time™ and Aardman Classics from Aardman Animations.  HIT also acts as representative for The Wiggles® in the UK. Launched in 1989, HIT's lines of business span television and video production, content distribution, publishing, consumer products licensing and live events and has operations in the UK, US, Canada, Hong Kong and Japan.   HIT is a part-owner of US-based preschool channel, PBS KIDS SproutSM, and international preschool channel JimJam, (outside of the US, UK and China). For more information, visit www.hitentertainment.com.
 
 

Bristol, 21 January 2010. Aardman Rights has secured a number of key licensing partners for its hit pre-school property Timmy Time, plus a range of new gift deals for the award-winning Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and Morph. 

Martin Yaffe International Ltd have signed with Aardman to produce Timmy Time outdoor toys. Launching in Summer 2010, the outdoor play equipment for the toddler and pre-school market will include hoppers and outdoor sports & playground games. In other Timmy Time deals, Baylis & Harding are to launch a range of toiletries including bathtime gift packs; Little Star Creations will devise a line in branded stationery and children's activity packs and Abbey Home Media Group is partnering with Aardman to produce audio story CDs. 

Other licensing deals for new gifts ranges from some of Aardman's world-class properties include Cheatwell Games, who are to produce a range of lenticular puzzles including Shaun the Sheep jigsaws and a Morph board game.

In addition, Ethos International Ltd is to introduce a line of Shaun the Sheep and Wallace & Gromit mugs and homeware gifts and The Novelty Gift Company will launch a range of Morph novelty gifts, including book ends, desktop buddy and wall clock.

Sean Clarke, Head of Aardman Rights says: "We are thrilled to sign new partners across our portfolio as we head into Toy Fair. The range and diversity of these deals highlights the flexibility and broad appeal of all our brands."

Timmy Time has enjoyed huge success since its launch on CBeebies in April 2009. The 52 x 10-minute stop-motion animated series has now reached over 9.4 million individuals*, and has proven to be such a hit that the BBC has now has ordered 26 more episodes, slated to start shooting from June 2010. Aimed at boys and girls, the non-dialogue series features a variety of animal noises, comedy, fun and strong character animation. Aardman's Jackie Cockle is the Creator and Producer, and Miles Bullough is Executive Producer.

The first series of Shaun the Sheep racked up television sales and licensing deals in over 150 territories and won several prestigious accolades, including the International Emmy Award. The second series recently launched on WDR in Germany and CBBC in the UK to impressive ratings, with UK audiences consistently outperforming the channel benchmark, reaching average audiences of over 172k**.

 

 

Shaun the Sheep is also proving to be a major licensing success, achieving over £25million retail sales since launch, with UK licensees across a broad range of categories, including Golden Bear, Egmont, Danilo, Silverknit, D3 Europe and H+A, in addition to numerous international licensees.

 

Wallace & Gromit celebrated their 20^th anniversary last year in style, taking over the prestigious 'Google Doodle' for the day and featuring in a Culture Show special, whilst maintaining a high UK profile throughout the year through the Cracking Ideas exhibition at the Science Museum in London (now relocating to the Glasgow Science Centre) and various promotional partnerships including Marks & Spencer and npower. Wallace & Gromit have also been chosen to front a brand new live action TV series, Wallace & Gromit present A World of Invention, commissioned by BBC One for late 2010 and also picked up by ABC Australia.

 

The unmistakable Morph has been on TV screens for over 30 years, since he first made an appearance on an episode of Take Hart in 1977. He remains a national treasure and is now attracting a new generation of fans.

BURBANK, Calif., Jan. 19, 2010 - USA Gymnastics and Warner Bros. Consumer Products announced today that the Supergirl brand, based on the DC Comics' character, will be the title sponsor of the 2010 Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup, a competition for 36 of the country's rising female gymnasts hosted by 2008 Olympic all-around champion Nastia Liukin and USA Gymnastics.  Proceeds from the event benefit the Nastia Liukin Fund, a charitable fund within the National Gymnastics Foundation.
 
"Supergirl is the ideal sponsor for this event featuring rising gymnasts," said Steve Penny, president of USA Gymnastics. "The Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup will showcase some of the top up-and-coming gymnasts in the country, giving athletes a unique chance to pursue their passion with independence, creativity and style."
 
The Supergirl S-shield is universally recognized as an unmatched symbol of strength, leadership and female empowerment, and uniquely embodies the ideals of the Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup.  This special event, which celebrates the accomplishments of young, rising stars, continues the Supergirl brand's support of today's action sports girl and builds on the spirit of the Supergirl Jam, the industry's only large-scale, all-girls action sports competition.
 
"We believe in supporting young athletes and events that allow them to demonstrate their impact on young women everywhere," said Karen McTier, Executive Vice President of Domestic Licensing and Worldwide Marketing, Warner Bros. Consumer Products.  "Supergirl celebrates the strength, power and skill of female athletes and Nastia represents the best of not only women's gymnastics, but also achievement for girls of all types.  Her integrity, commitment to giving back, sportsmanship and leadership embody the traits represented by the Supergirl brand."
 
"I am excited about Supergirl's involvement with the Cup," said Liukin, who has a total of nine world and five Olympic medals to her credit. "Gymnastics is such a great sport for young women, and the lessons gymnastics teaches girls are the essence of the Supergirl brand - dedication, teamwork, self-esteem and passion for what you do.  Building a partnership with USA Gymnastics and the Supergirl brand really helps solidify my vision on health, fitness and lifestyle issues that affect millions of girls."
 
To qualify for the inaugural Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup, gymnasts will be chosen from 15 invitationals that are part of the Nastia Liukin Cup Series.  Each invitational will select a minimum of two athletes from their respective fields to compete in the Cup. The events participating in the NLCS are:
 
·         CGA Parents Club Coaches Spectacular, Covington, Ky., Jan. 15-17
·         John Macready and John Roethlisberger's Flip Fest Invitational, Knoxville, Tenn., Jan. 15-18
·         Cereal City Classic, Kalamazoo, Mich., Jan. 22-24
·         Rock-n-Roll Classic, Broadview Heights, Ohio, Jan. 22-24
·         Parkettes Invitational, Allentown, Pa., Jan. 29-31
·         Wisconsin Dells Gymnastics Vacation Classic, Wisconsin Dells, Wis., Jan. 29-31
·         The Fiesta Bowl Classic, Chandler, Ariz., Feb. 5-7
·         IGI Chicago Style Meet, Chicago, Ill., Feb. 12-14
·         WOGA Classic, Frisco, Texas, Feb. 13-14
·         Buckeye Classic, Columbus, Ohio, Feb. 19-21
·         Circle of Stars, Indianapolis, Ind., Feb. 19-21
·         Excalibur Cup, Virginia Beach, Va., Feb. 19-21
·         Pikes Peak Cup, Colorado Springs, Colo., Feb. 19-21
·         Presidential Classic, Lake Buena Vista, Fla., Feb 19-21
·         The Long Beach Open, Long Beach, Calif., Feb. 26-28.
 
Gymnasts who compete in the Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup will receive a Nastia Liukin-designed leotard and a warm-up from GK Elite; two tickets to the Tyson American Cup and recognition during the event; and the opportunity to meet Liukin and participate in a team photo.
 
The inaugural Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup is scheduled for March 5, 2010, at the DCU Center in Worcester, Mass., and will be televised on Universal Sports.
 
Tickets for the Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup may be purchased in conjunction with a ticket purchase for the Tyson American Cup.  For more information, go to www.NastiaLiukinSupergirlCup.com.
 
###
 
About Nastia Liukin
At the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, Liukin's total of five medals tied the U.S. gymnastics record for most medals in one Olympic Games, currently held by Mary Lou Retton (1984) and Shannon Miller (1992). Liukin's medals are: gold - all-around; silver - team, balance beam and uneven bars; and bronze - floor exercise. Liukin is just the third U.S. woman to win the Olympic all-around crown. Earlier in 2008, Liukin won the all-around title at both the Tyson American Cup and the Pacific Rim Championships presented by Gillette Venus. Liukin has nine world medals to her credit: For 2008, she was named the USOC's Co-Sportswoman of the Year, the Women's Sports Foundation's Individual Sportswoman of the Year and the United States Sports Academy Female Athlete of the Year. Liukin and her teammates on the 2007 U.S. Women's World Championships Team were selected as the 2007 U.S. Olympic Committee's Team of the Year.  She was also chosen as one of 2009's most influential women by MSN Lifestyle. Liukin is still competing and is coached by her father, Valeri, who has four Olympic medals from 1988, including two gold. She trains at WOGA.
 
About Warner Bros. Consumer Products:
Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.
 
About DC Comics:
DC Comics, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world and home to such iconic characters as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and The Sandman. These DC Super Heroes and others have starred in comic books, movies, television series (both animated and live-action) and cyberspace, thrilling audiences of all ages for generations. DC Comics' Web site is located at www.dccomics.com.
 
About USA Gymnastics
Based in Indianapolis, USA Gymnastics is the national governing body for gymnastics in the United States.  Its mission is to encourage participation and the pursuit of excellence in the sport.  Its disciplines include men's and women's artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, trampoline and tumbling, and acrobatic gymnastics.  For more information, log on to www.usa-gymnastics.org.
 
About the Tyson America Cup
The 2010 Tyson American Cup is one of the most prestigious international invitationals and features an all-around format.  Ticket information are currently on sale, and the U.S. gymnasts who have already accepted invitations to compete in 2010 are 2009 world all-around silver-medalist Rebecca Bross; 2009 U.S. all-around champion and 2008 Olympic high bar silver-medalist Jonathan Horton; and 2009 U.S. all-around silver-medalist Tim McNeill, who was seventh in the all-around at the 2009 World Championships. The remaining U.S. woman and the international field will be announced in the near future. The list of former champions comprises some of the sport's best-known names, including Bart Conner, Paul Hamm, Shawn Johnson, Nastia Liukin, Shannon Miller, Carly Patterson, Mary Lou Retton and Peter Vidmar.  For more information, go to www.tysonamericancup.com.
 

Loreto, Italy (Jan. 11, 2010) Rainbow SpA has closed a major deal with Italian Home Entertainment power house 01 Distribution for the rights to its iconic girls' property, Winx Club. The deal encompasses all four seasons of the hit show as well as the DVD rights to the upcoming WINX ON ICE live show, touring Italy, France and Russia this spring. The Italian WINX ON ICE tour will feature a unique show at world famous Verona Amphitheatre which will be converted into and Ice Palace for the event. Winx Club is the number one girls' property for 4-12 year olds in Italy, achieving consistently high ratings on RAI for all four seasons. The video sales will be widely supported by various major Winx Club events throughout the year, including the live WINX ON ICE SHOW and the launch of a second feature film in 3D, "The Magic is Back" (working title).

 

In Russia, where Winx Club is also the top 4-12 year old girls' property broadcast on CTC (with an average 17.3% rating), Novij Disk have purchased the Home Entertainment rights for all four Winx Club Series. The deal covers home video and DVD rights in Russia and former CIS.  Rainbow's latest property, "PopPixie" will also see the inside of Russia's Home Entertainment business with rights going to HITLAB ENTERTAINMENT, with the expectation of reaching the same massive local success as Winx Club.  "PopPixie" is Rainbow's brand new animated comedy aimed at 5-12 year olds, based on the entertaining and quirky Pixie characters introduced in "Winx Club" Series Two.

 

About Rainbow SpA

Founded in 1995, Rainbow is a pioneer in the European animation industry and the largest animation studio in Europe. With over 200 full time staff, including an award-winning  team of directors, scriptwriters, artists, special effects and 3D designers, as well as a fully dedicated sales and licensing force, Rainbow has quickly grown to be Europe's leaders in high-rating, quality animated series and movies with proven licensing results. Rainbow has offices in Italy (Loreto & Rome), Spain, Holland, and Singapore. Rainbow's biggest success to date is Winx Club: 104 half-hours of fairy adventure, broadcast on 150 networks worldwide. For more information please go to: www.rbw.it and www.winxclub.com.

NEW YORK, September 14, 2009 - An epic battle between science and nature has begun! Massiverse, Inc., a new media development company that creates original and interactive transmedia properties, is announcing their exciting first property: Dragons Vs Robots. Sci-fi meets fantasy in this unique world designed for kids ages 9 to 14, where futuristic robots and mythical dragons battle for control over the planet Earth. Today Massiverse gives a first look at the vast Dragons Vs Robots universe at http://www.dragonsvsrobots.com, where a free battle game and manga series have been unveiled.
 
Dragons Vs Robots was conceived by entertainment writer and producer M. Raven Metzner, whose credits include the prime time television series Six Degrees for Touchstone/ABC, and seasoned media and technology executive Jesse Soleil. Spanning over 200 years and three generations of future history, the Dragons Vs Robots narrative involves a devastating energy crisis that leads to the rise of powerful robots and the reawakening of ancient dragons. The source of their conflict is Protium, a rare energy resource that serves as a life force for both dragons and robots. Humans, who also need this precious substance to resolve the energy crisis, must choose their allegiance- and so the battle lines are drawn.
 
Massiverse defines transmedia as integrated narrative storytelling that uses traditional and emerging mediums to develop a long-term personal relationship between customers and a brand. Dragons Vs Robots is the first of several original transmedia properties planned by the company. In addition to the battle game and manga series launching today, the Dragons Vs Robots saga will also be told through a trading card game, novels, animated webisodes, and a full-length feature film, providing multiple entry points for engagement and revenue. Plans are also in the works for a toy line.
 

Ben 10 Debut from Existing Partners at Market Week
 
 
Making a splash in the home furnishings market, Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) kicked off the Home Fashion Products Association's New York Home Fashions Market today with a series of announcements for two of its industry leading boys' brands.  As the exclusive U.S. licensing agent for Nelvana and Spin Master's Bakugan, CNE has signed RoomMates, a division of York Wallcoverings, as the brand's newest partner, while existing partners Franco Manufacturing and The Northwest Company unveil new products at the semi-annual show.  The group also announced that it is actively seeking partners in the room décor category for its evergreen Ben 10 franchise, while existing partners Jay Franco and RoomMates set new products for the brand for spring 2010.
RoomMates will launch a series of wall decors featuring some of the brand's most popular characters in spring 2010, when it will join existing partners Franco Manufacturing (bedding, beach towels and bath accessories) and The Northwest Company (throws and throw/pillow gift sets) in the home furnishings category for Bakugan, with a range of new products also launching at the same time.
Bolstering its roster of home furnishings partners for its hit Ben 10 brand, CNE enters New York Home Fashions Market actively seeking room décor partners.  These new partners will join Jay Franco (bedding, beach towels and bath accessories) and RoomMates (wall stickers and wallpaper murals), which will be showcasing new products during the market week.  
"Instrumental to our brands' continued success at retail is having the right mix of fresh product and categories," said Christina Miller, senior vice president of CNE.  "The addition of RoomMates along with an all-new product range puts us in a great position to continue to grow and cement Ben 10 and Bakugan as two of the industry's leading boys' brands."
 

(September 10, 2009) - Nelvana Enterprises and The Clifford Ross Company are pleased to announce that TF1 Licences has been appointed as the representative agent for the Babar brand in France and other European territories such as Belgium and The Netherlands, effective immediately.

 

TF1 will play a major role in creating synergies between the merchandising program and the broadcasting of the new 3-D series Babar - And the Adventures of Badou set to launch on TF1 in France in Fall 2010/Spring 2011. The series is now in production from Nelvana Studio and TeamTO in association with The Clifford Ross Company and 26 episodes (52 x 11 minute stories) are in the works. Playhouse Disney France is pre-buying the series to air in a second broadcast window. It will debut in North America on YTV in Canada. TF1 Licences will be the licensing agent for the property in France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Monaco, Andorra, Dom-Tom and French-speaking Switzerland.

 

The series will introduce King Babar's eight-year-old grandson, Badou, a "one-elephant stampede", bursting with a sense of adventure. He laughs often and has inherited his grandfather's daring spirit, often plunging into a situation (or a hidden passage way or unexplored temple) fully confident that he can handle whatever he finds. To see his grandson rushing so enthusiastically into the world makes Babar feel as if he is discovering it anew for himself. Viewers will also meet a cast of new characters offering kid-friendly views of palace intrigue and comic jungle adventures. 

Weesp, The Netherlands (8 September, 2009) - BIG BOCCA Productions is proud to announce for its action-adventure property, Huntik: Secrets & Seeker, a new prestigious apparel licensee in the UK: Blues Clothing.

 

Blues will be developing and manufacturing an extensive range of Huntik themed children's outwear, leisurewear, swimwear, underwear and nightwear.

 

The apparel will begin to roll out in September 2010.

 

This new deal comes in addition to a comprehensive UK licensing program composed of Huntik trading card game as well as the mastertoy line from Upper Deck launched this year. In 2010, some new products will be released such as a Huntik monthly magazine, a full line of Huntik mini collectible figurines and Huntik sticker albums from Panini, a Huntik DS title will be developed by Rainbow Media as well as the DVD by E1 at the beginning of the year.

 

"We are extremely proud to have secured our agreement with Big Bocca and look forward to developing exciting 'Huntik Secrets & Seekers' apparel collections" said Patrick Bailey, Commercial Director of  Blues Clothing Limited.

 

"Securing key licensing categories with market leaders will help us achieve massive exposure at retail and we are pleased to partner with such a highly renowned apparel licensee in the UK", said Marie-Laure Marchand, Managing Director of Big Bocca Productions.

THE "SCOOP":  VIZ MEDIA EUROPE LICENSES RECENTLY GRANTED

 

THE "PROPERTY": BLUE DRAGON

As seen on TV, the BLUE DRAGON series is based on Microsoft's BLUE DRAGON Xbox360 game, developed by Hironobu Sakaguchi, the creator Final Fantasy, and features character designs by Akira Toriyama, the creator of the best-selling DRAGON BALL series of manga. The anime series debuted in Japan on TV Tokyo on April 7, 2007 and is produced by Studio Pierrot.

 

THE "PLAYERS":

Licensor: VIZ Media Europe, S.A.R.L.

Headquartered in Paris, France, VIZ Media Europe (VME) is a subsidiary of San Francisco-based VIZ Media, LLC. VME specializes in managing the development, marketing and distribution throughout Europe of Japanese animated entertainment and graphic novels (manga).VME handles some of the most popular Japanese manga and animation properties from initial production, through television placement and distribution to merchandise licensing and promotions for consumers of all ages. Current VME animated properties include BLEACH, BLUE DRAGON, DEATH NOTE, HAMTARO, HONEY & CLOVER, KEKKAISHI, KILARI, M.A.R NEURO, A PENGUIN'S TROUBLES and ZOIDS GENESIS.  Contact VIZ Media Europe at 9, avenue de l'Opéra, 75001 Paris, France Phone +33 1 72 71 53 53; Fax: +33 1 42 96 97 36; and web site at www.vizeurope.com.

 

Licensing Contact Information:  VIZ Media Europe

Pascal Bonnet / pascal.bonnet@vizeurope.com

 

Public Relations Contact Information: VIZ Media Europe

Evelyn Dubocq, Senior Director, Public Relations/ Evelyn.Dubocq@viz.com

VIZ Media/VIZ Media Europe

 

THE "LICENSEE": Edibas

Headquartered in Turin, Italy, Edibas Collections is an international company with its core business being collectible products targeting children aged between 6 and 15. Innovation, which has always been the strength of Edibas, leads in 2001 to the introduction of Lamincards (cards printed on transparent PET plastic material), now well known as a trendsetter on the European market. Edibas offers traditional products such as sticker albums, 3D mini figurines and trading cards based on main international brands and properties. Contact Edibas Collections at Strada Settimo 407, 10156 Torino, Italy, Phone +39 011 2979773, Licensing contact marco.gallo@edibas.com

 

Licensee Contact Information:

Marco Gallo, Licensing and Marketing Manager

marco.gallo@edibas.com / Tel. +39 0112979773 - x105 / Fax. +39 0112732343

 

THE "PRODUCTS": The following products have been licensed: 

Lamincards, calendars, posters, small collectible figures

 

THE "TERRITORY": The following territory/territories include:

Italy

 

THE "CATEGORIES"

The following category/categories pertain to the license that has been recently granted:

Kiosk products

Toronto, London 8 September 2009. DHX Media is launching a dedicated licensing division to exploit content internationally from its three production subsidiaries, Decode Entertainment Inc., Halifax Film and Studio B Productions. DHX Licensing will build on the global success of its television brands to extend their reach into consumer products, while DHX's distribution subsidiary DECODE Enterprises will continue to handle international broadcast sales.

 

The division will be headed by Beth Stevenson, Executive Vice President, Production and Development, DECODE Entertainment, and managed by Polly Beel, Director, Marketing and Licensing, DHX Licensing.  DHX Licensing's slate will incorporate well-loved properties, Franny's Feet, Animal Mechanicals, Bo On the GO!, dirtgirlworld and Kid vs Kat, as well as third party content currently represented by DECODE Enterprises such as Grandpa In My Pocket. New non-television content includes Beer Goggles and Gaia Nathan.

 

DHX Media's President and COO Steven DeNure said: "The launch of DHX Licensing is a major part of our drive to manage and exploit kids' brands across a number of revenue-generating opportunities. Licensing and merchandising as well as interactive is a big part of this, it will build on the significant international broadcast presence of our television brands, as well as allow us to expand into the development of merchandising-led properties."

 

Milan, September 2nd, 2009 - Giochi Preziosi and Marathon Media, a Zodiak Entertainment
Company, are glad to announce that, starting from the 30th of September to the 1st of October,
Gormiti will invade the Grand Hall at Olympia in London. Gormiti will storm Brand Licensing Europe
for the second year in a row with a dedicated Gormiti booth (#410). New contents, new characters
and new details on the astonishing second season of the 52 x 26' TV series: Gormiti - the Lords
of Nature Return, will be unveiled during the show.
 
The licensing program has now hit the 200 deals mark worldwide, with the new astonishing toys
collection driving the whole program: and all the new toys and characters are coming to shelf,
starting from Italy this Fall and in 2010 in the rest of Europe. 
 
Gormiti licensing program is now fully supported by local agents appointed for all European
countries: Mediaset (Italy), Marathon Media (France), TLC (UK and Germany), Benelux 
Gormiti - the Lords of Nature Return, the 52 x 26' Giochi Preziosi & Marathon co-production,
already airs on Mediaset in Italy with terrific audience scores since autumn 2008; Gormiti TV
series will hit the screens starting from fall 2009 in France (M6 and Canal J for 2010), Germany
(RTL2), UK (Nick Toons), Greece (Alter Channel), Turkey (Digi Turk), Israel (Noga) and in the
Middle East (MBC). Further broadcasters will be announced in the next months.
 
International TV and video sales are handled by Zodiak Entertainment.
Licensing and merchandising is managed by Marathon Media in France and Giochi Preziosi in
the rest of the world, through a network of local agents.
 
 

The 2007 screen return of the classic British school for unconventional young ladies, St Trinian's, was a hit in more ways than one. Not only did it make an impressive $25 million at the UK box office - putting it in the top five highest grossing British independent films of all time­ - but it showed the potential of St Trinian's as a brand. Naughty, quirky, sexy, edgy, irreverent, cool and fun: the St Trinian's brand is all these things and many more.

 

And St Trinian's is again set to take the country by storm as producer Fragile Films confirm that a new movie, ST TRINIAN'S^® II:  The Legend of Fritton's Gold, is now in production. Filmed at the world-famous Ealing Studios and distributed in the UK by Entertainment Film Distributors, it is due for release in December this year.

 

ST TRINIAN'S^® II:  The Legend of Fritton's Gold sees the return of many stars from the first film, such as Rupert Everett, Colin Firth, Jodie Whittaker and Celia Imrie as well as the arrival of several high-profile new cast members including David Tennant of Dr Who, Sarah Harding from Girls Aloud and Montserrat Lombard of Ashes to Ashes...

 

St Trinian's potential, not only in cinemas but as a brand, is clearly enormous. The filmmakers have recognised that brand potential and also found the perfect licensing partner to make it happen. As filming on the second movie in the St Trinian's franchise goes into production, Rocket Licensing is delighted to announce that it has been retained to represent licensing for the franchise.

July 23, 2009 - Toronto, ON - Spin Master Ltd. has signed a major deal with Nickelodeon and Viacom Consumer Products (NVCP) to be the master global toy licensor for Nickelodeon Movies and Paramount Pictures' forthcoming theatrical release of the The Last Airbender.  Directed by M. Night Shyamalan, and based on Nickelodeon's award-winning animated hit TV series "Avatar: The Last Airbender," the feature film is slated to hit theaters in the U.S. July 2, 2010. The licensing deal between Spin Master Ltd. and NVCP will produce a comprehensive line of products including: action figures, vehicles, playsets and more, featuring their favorite heroes and villains using innovative technology that will enable fans to live out their most memorable moments from this epic film.

"M. Night Shyamalan and Paramount have done an incredible job of adapting the mythology of 'Avatar' the Nick TV show into an imaginative and visually stunning live-action big-screen fantasy adventure film," says Adam Beder, VP Licensing, Spin Master.  "As the world's most fun and most imaginative toy company, it's a natural fit for us to re-create the magic of the film into an original and creative new toy line that children will love."

"There is tremendous anticipation for The Last Airbender, and we are thrilled to bring a hugely innovative hit TV property to life through our partnership with Spin Master," said Leigh Anne Brodsky, President, NVCP. "Our co-branded product line will dive in to The Last Airbender's rich storyline and promises timeless play experiences for the original series' super-fans, as well as for new fans of the film."

International representation deals signed for Monty Python and Pinky and Perky

 

PPC Enterprises has announced major international sub-agency representation deals for two of its hottest brands: Monty Python and Pinky and Perky.

 

The new deals will see both brands taken into new territories by two hugely respected agencies: Alicom will be representing them in Scandinavia, whilst Grahame Grassby will be taking the reins in Australia and New Zealand.

 

Pinky and Perky are the stars of a new CGI series that has proved a massive hit since debuting last year on the BBC - ratings have been huge in the UK and the show is set to air on France 3 and ABC in Australia later this year, with sales also confirmed in the Nordics. A flurry of licensing activity has surrounded the pigs and PPCE has already signed deals for toys, console and CD Rom games, and a stage show.

 

Evergreen favourite Monty Python is celebrating its 40^th birthday this year and currently riding a wave of popularity - interest in the original sketch shows has been so high that an official Python channel has been created on YouTube, whilst DVDs of classic Python movies such as 'The Life of Brian' are selling like hot cakes. PPCE has been busy signing deals and licenses are now in place for voice key chains, dress-up, branded T-shirts, SWP machines and greeting cards.

 

Mark Hurry, PPCE Legal and Commercial Director, is excited about the prospects for both brands: "Both these brands are absolutely red hot in the UK at present and we have chosen two very capable agencies to take them forward in Scandinavia and Australia/NZ, where I'm sure they will do equally well." 

LOS ANGELES - July 7, 2009 - Toei Animation has secured a number of Latin America-based licensees for Dragon Ball Z, One Piece and Saint Seiya, it was announced today by Eduardo Lucio, sales manager, Latin America.
 
Included among the company's prestigious roster of Latin American-based licensees are Panini for Dragonball Z magnets in Mexico; Chenson for Dragon Ball Z and Saint Seiya bags and backpacks in Mexico; Cordez for Dragonball Z bags and backpacks in Brazil; Cardebras for One Piece Notebooks in Brazil; Corp. Industrias Plasticas for Dragon Ball Z balls and folders in Peru; Global Partners for Dragon Ball Z binders and pencil cases in Argentina; Creative Hats for Dragon Ball Z sunglasses in Argentina; Distribuidora Latapy for Dragon Ball Z tricycles and skateboards in Argentina.
Now boasting 508 episodes, the Dragon Ball phenomena follows Goku's quest (main character in the series) to become the strongest martial artist in the universe and his search for the seven magic Dragon Balls in a saga that encompasses three parts - Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball GT. Dragon Ball adapts Japanese big success comics of the same title by Akira Toriyama. Since this animated series produced in 1986, this has continued broadcasted in major European countries. In France, the series currently airs on MCM, NT1, AB1 and Mangas.

 

PARIS (July 2nd 2009) - Toei Animation Europe S.A.S and TF1 VISION will launch the popular animated properties, Captain Harlock and Ken the Great Bear Fist in VOD, on July 2nd 2009  in France.
 
These two series will be available on PC thought www.tf1vision.fr and in IPTV platforms through TF1 VISION stores (1.49€ each episode)
 
"The key titles of Captain Harlock and Ken the Great Bear Fist are very popular in France.
With these new VOD products, our anime fans will have the opportunity to rediscover their favorite series on TV as well as on their PC.
This is our first VOD exploitation in France, but we plan to develop our VOD business, not only in France but also in other European countries" said Mr. Kazahaya, Chief Operating Officer of Toei Animation Europe.
 
 
About Toei Animation Co. Ltd.
 
With headquarters in Tokyo and sales offices in Los Angeles, Hong Kong and Paris, Toei Animation (Jasdaq: 4816) ranks amongst the world's most prolific animation production studios. Toei Animation's operations include animation development and production, as well as worldwide marketing and program licensing. Founded in 2004, Toei Animation Europe is in charge of the distribution and exploitation of Toei Animation's animated series in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
 

Pre-school brand Super WHY adds to its momentum in the UK  


Bulldog Licensing looks set to add to the licensing programme for innovative pre-school property Super WHY after the brand received plenty of attention from UK licensees at the recent Licensing International Expo in Las Vegas.

In the US, Super WHY has rapidly built an impressive fan base of kids and families - and an eagerly anticipated toy line from Learning Curve has just launched at Toys"R"Us.  On Saturday June 13, every Toys"R"Us store in the country played host to an exclusive Super WHY Play Day event, packed with storytelling, reading-focused games, activities andfree gifts.  The coast-to-coast celebration introduced an outstanding initial assortment of learning and role-playing items, books, puzzles, and games inspired by the popular series and its mission of helping kids learn to read - and learn to love reading.

Super WHY is the only preschool property created to teach kids the fundamentals of reading through interactive storybook adventures.  The award-winning animated series is also proving to be a huge hit on Nick Jr in the UK, regularly bringing in more than 150,000 viewers and peaking at over 230,000; the show is stripped across Nick Jr.'s weekday schedule at a prime 6:30pm slot.

Hybrid Tees and Random House Join Mattel, D3Publisher and Warner Home Video as Launch Partners for
Hit Fantasy-Adventure Series with Products Rolling Out at Retail this Summer
               

                The secret is out: Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) has assembled an impressive team of launch partners for the upcoming consumer products debut of the hit fantasy-adventure series, The Secret Saturdays.  The licensing and merchandising arm of the kids' cable network announced today that Hybrid Tees and Random House will join Mattel, D3Publisher and Warner Home Video, to round out a robust, fully-immersive consumer products launch for the popular Cartoon Network original series that will launch at retail starting this summer.  Hybrid Tees will create a line of boys
t-shirts and sweatshirts drawing upon the main characters and Crypids made popular in the series, with product launching in time for this holiday season across all tiers of retail.  Additionally, building on an existing relationship with its Del Ray Manga imprint, a full publishing program featuring chapter books, activity books and a Cryptid field journal will be released by Random House.
                "There is a great deal of excitement and anticipation surrounding the retail launch of The Secret Saturdays this summer," said Christina Miller, vice president, CNE.  "Our strategy for the brand was to create an immersive program that gives fans the true Saturdays' experience to battle, collect and discover and with the partners we have on board, we have done just that."
As master toy partner for The Secret Saturdays, Mattel, Inc. will manufacture, market and sell a wide range of toys inspired by the new series, including action figures, playsets, role-play items, and more.  Available at mass retailers starting this summer, key items in the line include:
 

THQ  Leverages  Gamebryo and Gamebryo LightSpeed to Create Their
Next Generation Line-Up  
 
CALABASAS, Calif. - June 3, 2009 - Emergent™ Game Technologies today announced that THQ Inc. (NASDAQ:THQI) has signed a master licensing agreement for the use of Emergent™ development products, including Gamebryo® and Gamebryo LightSpeed™. The deal will allow THQ's internal and external developers to effectively create high-quality titles for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, Nintendo Wii™ video game system and PC.
 
"We were impressed by Emergent's approach of providing a single development environment that we can use to create any title on our product schedule," said Roy Tessler, senior vice president, production and worldwide studios, THQ. "Their technologies will allow us to reduce the time we spend in redundant recreation of core technology.  Through rapid prototyping and rapid iteration, we can build better games with less risk by redirecting development resources to allow our designers to concentrate on innovating original game play."
 
"THQ's new license for Emergent's development tech speaks to one of the main advantages of using Gamebryo and LightSpeed, which is the ability to quickly integrate game specific custom tech," said Scott Johnson, president, Emergent. "Once developers and publishers realize they can spend their time on creating better entertainment and minimize risk by having the ability to create games in all genres and popular platforms on the same core development engine, they choose our technologies again and again."
 

Philadelphia, PA, June 26, 2009-- Cisco Systems and LG had approximately $10.2 million of combined broadcast exposure in the summer blockbuster "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen," according to Front Row Analytics, a leading firm that specializes in conducting analyses for product placement in TV and film, sporting and entertainment events, and venue naming rights.

Cisco, a leader in technology services and LG, a world class consumer electronics company, showcased their products with 1 minute and 47 seconds of on-screen exposure. According to Front Row Analytics' estimation, the value of cumulated on-screen exposure is $10,203,724 million. This value was derived by using a metric developed from the overall theater viewers, exposure time and the value attributed to each viewer.

"The product integration in 'Transformers' is an unobtrusive way for Cisco and LG to continue showcasing their products to a mass audience, proving that they are the leaders in their industry," said Eric Smallwood, Project Management Vice President for Front Row Analytics.

The opening of "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" received a box office estimation of $60.6 million.

-- Sixth installment of the beloved film series storms into theaters Wednesday, July 15 --
 
Burbank, Calif., June 25, 2009 - Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) has enlisted a prominent collection of global licensees to capture the magic of the eagerly anticipated upcoming feature film, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.  Hitting theaters Wednesday, July 15, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is the sixth installment and latest chapter in the wildly popular film series from Warner Bros., which has licensees worldwide gearing up to support the most successful entertainment franchise of all time.
 
In support of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, an array of products will be available at retailers nationwide, including Hot Topic stores, as well as at www.WBshop.com.
 
NECA, Inc. and Corgi International Limited, the global master toy partners for the Harry Potter franchise, will create a spellbinding line of products in support of the upcoming feature film release.  Additional key licensees include Mattel, with Scene It? Harry Potter 2nd Edition and Noble, for wands, chess sets and high-end sculpts; additional global licensees include: Panini, DeAgostini, Hasbro, Rubie's Costume Co., Exhibitgroup/Giltspur, Artbox Entertainment, Gentle Giant, Giant Merchandising, Jibbitz, BioWorld Merchandising Inc., Andrews McMeel Publishing and Tonner Doll.
 
"Harry Potter is a fan favorite and has captivated audiences for years," said Karen McTier, Executive Vice President of Domestic Licensing and Worldwide Marketing for Warner Bros. Consumer Products.  "The franchise's global influence allows top licensees the opportunity to create imaginative and innovative product lines that convey the magic of Harry Potter."
 
The enchantment begins Wednesday, July 15, 2009, when Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince storms theaters nationwide.  The sixth installment of the highly successful film franchise, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince reunites Harry (Daniel Radcliffe), Ron (Rupert Grint) and Hermione (Emma Watson), as they prepare to battle Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes).  Directed by Harry Potter veteran, David Yates, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince also returns key characters including Professor Dumbledore (Michael Gambon), Professor Snape (Alan Rickman), Hagrid (Robbie Coltrane), Professor McGonagall (Maggie Smith) and introduces Professor Slughorn (Jim Broadbent).
 

Turner's Cartoon Network Enterprises Named Youth Licensing Agent
To Focus on PGA's Presence Among Youth Fans


The PGA of America and Turner Sports have extended their broadcasting and interactive media agreements covering the PGA Championship, PGA Grand Slam of Golf and PGA.com through 2019.  The new agreement between the two organizations will also expand to include licensing, with Turner's Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) serving as the PGA's licensing agent in the youth marketplace.  In addition, Turner and the PGA will collaborate on a number of new media and consumer marketing initiatives to increase awareness and brand recognition of The PGA of America among key audiences, as well as introduce new, younger audiences to learning, playing and following the game.

For each PGA Championship, TNT will continue to provide comprehensive television coverage for the Thursday and Friday rounds, as well as early coverage for the final two rounds on Saturday and Sunday.  Turner will also provide complete coverage of the PGA Grand Slam of Golf, which is the hardest event to qualify for in the game.  Additionally, Turner will continue its management of PGA.com, the official Web site of the PGA of America.  

CNE, in its new role as licensing agent, will use its strengths to create an extensive consumer product and retail program for the PGA with the youth marketplace through a range of licensing agreements and co-branding partnerships across all product categories.  This new product line will increase the PGA's presence with the next generation of fans and also broaden the PGA's scope of retail offerings.

London, Monday 22 June 2009: Global pre-school channel JimJam, a joint venture between HIT Entertainment and Chellomedia, today announced a deal with Air New Zealand to provide an exclusive bespoke pre-school children's channel for young air travellers.

The initial one year deal will see JimJam providing 120 minutes of new programming for transmission every three months on Air New Zealand's international services. Passengers will have the option of non-stop viewing or tailoring their own schedule on a programme by programme basis.

Wayne Dunsford, General Manager, JimJam said "We're delighted to announce this significant new platform for the JimJam brand. We are very much looking forward to growing our partnership with Air New Zealand and are pleased to provide high quality entertainment for the many younger passengers on board."

All-new Collection to Include Rain Boots, Slickers and Umbrellas
 
 
BURBANK, Calif., June 18, 2009 - Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), on behalf of DC Comics, announced today that it has entered into a partnership with Washington Shoe Company, leading manufacturer of footwear and fashion raingear, to launch a new collection of rainwear for Kids and Juniors under Washington Shoe Company's Western Chief and Chooka brand names.  The upcoming product lines will feature beloved Warner Bros.' characters Scooby-Doo and DC SUPER HEROES, including BATMAN, SUPERMAN, SUPERGIRL and WONDER WOMAN, among others.
 
The initial product rollout highlights the CAPED CRUSADER himself, with BATMAN-inspired rainwear that merges action and functionality to transform any child into the ultimate hero.  The all-new rainwear incorporates a number of Batman's classic gadgets and combines rain jackets and special BATMAN boots in order to recreate the legendary BAT-SUIT.    The line features glow-in-the-dark logos, perfect for action-adventure role-play.
 
"Washington Shoe Company is an industry leader and the perfect partner for such a fun collaboration," said Karen McTier, Executive Vice President of Domestic Licensing and Worldwide Marketing, Warner Bros. Consumer Products.  "Furthermore, the DC Comics Super Heroes and Scooby-Doo are iconic characters that are beloved by kids all over the world and lend themselves perfectly to their own line of active rainwear."
 

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Bulletin Board Set To Be Released July 2009
 
            FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
 
GREENSBORO, N.C. - (June 16, 2009) - Carson-Dellosa Publishing, Inc., a leading provider of premium quality standards-based learning resource solutions, has secured rights to produce an entire line of The World of Eric Carle branded classroom decoratives featuring the renowned author/illustrator's collage style illustrations from his award winning picture books.
 
In honor of the 40th anniversary of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, one of the best selling children's books of all time, Carson-Dellosa will release the first classroom decorative product, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Bulletin Board Set, this July.
 
Featuring the very same illustrations that have endeared young readers for decades, the new bulletin board set displays the adventures of The Very Hungry Caterpillar for the entire classroom. From the caterpillar's birth in the moonlight to its first taste of an apple and ultimate metamorphosis into a beautiful butterfly, the bulletin board set represents this classic story from beginning to end as it teaches the days of the week, counting, nutrition and more with over a dozen pieces of Eric Carle's artwork.
 

Editrice Giochi Expands Renewal Deal for Board Games
La Nuova F.A.R.O. to Produce \ Edutainment Toy Products, Furniture, and Accessories
 
For Immediate Release:
 
(Milan, Italy)(June 10, 2009)--Italy-based Atlantyca Entertainment has secured licensing agreements with two of Italy's top game manufacturers to produce new games and ancillary products for its famed Geronimo Stilton Classic brand. Atlantyca, the original rights holder on the award-winning international kids' brand, manages all licensing in Italy for the classic Geronimo Stilton kids' chapter book series brand as well as worldwide publishing.
 
A reflection of a very long standing relationship together, leading (Italian) board game publisher Editrice Giochi has signed a renewal deal to develop new updated games and original games for the Geronimo Stilton classic brand. A re-stylized version of the popular "Scrabble" and "Pictionary  " are set for a Christmas 2009 release. 
 
In addition, a further agreement was signed between the two companies to produce dedicated board games for Geronimo Stilton's spin-off brands, the popular fantasy book stories Kingdom of Fantasy and  character spin-off Tea Sister.
 
"Editrice Giochi has an outstanding track record for delivering high-quality and innovative products." We have had a long-history with them and are thrilled to be able to continue a relationship which has had enormous success with such a recognized name in the kids game industry," said Maria Giovanna Gurrieri, Director of Licensing. "This new deal complements our long-term objectives for the brand globally and we look forward to working with them in developing new and refreshed game concepts which are certain to be a hit for all Geronimo fans, old and new!"
 
The historic La Nuova F.A.R.O. toy company based in Omegna, Italy, known for its extensive line of edutainment toy products, has signed an agreement to produce children's play furniture, accessories, creativity games, arts and crafts all based on the famous Geronimo Stilton character. The products are set for a debut at retail this fall, just in time for back to school.
 
"La Nuova F.A.R.O. is a perfect fit for our classic brand. We are proud to be working with a company whose reputation for quality products made in Italy matches the reputation of the imaginative and endearing Geronimo Stilton character," said Gurrieri.
 

Thumb Wrestling Federation: TWF, the wildly popular kids' TV series, continues to wrestle its way through Latin America, announcing today that it has picked up a new team of broadcasters.  TWF will be hitting the airwaves on Cadena Tres in Mexico, RedeTV! in Brazil, Telemundo in Puerto Rico, América TV in Peru, Televisora Hondurena in Honduras, Red Uno in Bolivia, and Ecuavisa in Ecuador.  TWF has already found success in Latin America on Cartoon Network, where it will continue to air.
 
Thumb Wrestling Federation is produced by New York based Animation Collective and distributed in Latin America by Televix Entertainment.  With four seasons completed and a fifth season currently in production, TWF has quickly become a global brand, airing on Cartoon Network in the US, BBC in the UK, and YTV in Canada. 
 
"Over the four seasons of Thumb Wrestling Federation that are currently airing, we've seen that the more kids are exposed to the property, the greater their demand for it is," said Larry Schwarz, CEO of Animation Collective and creator of TWF.  "These additional broadcast partners will enable us to connect to more fans across Latin America."
 
The series also airs on Cartoon Network feeds throughout Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.  TWF consumer products, ranging from toys to tshirts and socks to sticker albums, are already available in multiple territories, and will be making their way to Latin America this year.
 
About Thumb Wrestling Federation: TWF
The live-action, short-format comedy series is a thumb-sized view of a fictional sports league. With larger than life wrestling personalities, thumb on thumb contact, and two wacky commentators, TWF brings to life the battle between the Mighty Dexteras and the evil Sinistras, a classic good versus evil showdown between 56 original characters. The short-format segments include one-minute wrestler bios, 45-second gags, and three-and-a-half-minute thumb wrestling matches.  Viewers can also go to www.thumbwrestlingfederation.com to play games, design their own characters, view exclusive content, and post their own artwork.
 
About Animation Collective
A leading independent creator of children's entertainment in the U.S., Animation Collective has original content in more than eighty countries and in over fifteen languages on platforms including television, broadband, wireless, books, games and consumer products. Proprietary productions include: Kappa Mikey, MTVN and Nickelodeon's first global acquisition for Nicktoons Network and Nickelodeon; Three Delivery for Nicktoons Network, YTV, Canal+ Family, Nickelodeon Australia, and the BBC; Thumb Wrestling Federation: TWF for Cartoon Network in the U.S., Asia, Australia and Spain, YTV and the BBC; and Ellen's Acres for Cartoon Network, TVO, Al Jazeera and ABC TV Australia. Work-for-hire productions include Speed Racer: The Next Generation for Nicktoons Network and Lionsgate Entertainment; Eloise in Africa (direct to video) for HandMade Films and The Incredible Crash Dummies for 4KidsTV. Animation Collective is the largest provider of original content for KOL, America Online's kids channel and Red, its teen channel. Larry Schwarz, the company's founder and CEO, is the creator and executive producer of all its original series.

Exclusive Partnership Features Apparel from Now and Zen and Accessories from Loungefly,
Based on Two of Cartoon Network's Hit Original Series
 
                Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) and Hot Topic are serving up a chain-wide retail exclusive for two of the network's top-rated original comedy series, Chowder and Flapjack.  The recently-launched program features juniors t-shirts and fashion tops from Now and Zen, the brands' previously-announced apparel partner, as well as a full range of all-new accessories from Loungefly, including totes, key chains and buttons.  The two brands, which are featured in Cartoon Network's popular HAR HAR THARSDAYS comedy block on Thursday nights, will be highlighted at all Hot Topic retail locations nationwide as well as on HotTopic.com.
                "Hot Topic has been a great long-term partner for Cartoon Network and has had tremendous success launching new programs in the specialty market," said Christina Miller, vice president, CNE.  "Chowder and Flapjack are two brands with unique and charming characters that are great fits for the Hot Topic customer, and we're excited to launch this program and build on our success in this space."
Created by C.H. Greenblatt, Chowder chronicles the magical misadventures of a young chef's apprenticeship in the fantastical city of Marzipan where each day is filled with surreal situations and avoiding one disaster after another. During its first season run on Cartoon Network, Chowder was the network's #1 prime-time program among kids 6-11 and boys 6-11 and reached more than 11.5 million kids during its 13 week run, according to Nielsen Media Research. Additionally, with new episodes debuting on Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. (ET/PT), the series is the main course to the network's HAR HAR THARSDAYS which airs from 7:30 - 10:00 p.m. (ET/PT) each week and provides kids with destination viewing for their favorite comedy series.
 

LICENSING EXPO, LAS VEGAS - JUNE 3, 2009 - The MoonScoop Group, one of the leading worldwide family entertainment companies, announced today that it is entering into a worldwide licensing agreement with leading international toy company Bandai America Inc., to become the global toy licensee for the exciting new animated preschool TV series "Chloe's Closet."  The deal provides Bandai America with the rights to create certain toys, activity sets & crafts, role-play toys and dress-up sets based on the series, which is scheduled to premiere in early 2010.
 
"Chloe's Closet" (52 x 11') follows the fun-filled adventures of an adorable, imaginative little girl named Chloe who discovers magical new worlds while playing dress-up in her closet.  With each new costume Chloe tries on, she is swept up in a fantastical journey with her best friends, including her constant companion, a security blanket named Lovely Carrot.  Chloe's exploits also encourage the audience to celebrate how delightful it is to be a little kid embarking upon a fabulously fun and fearless, anything-can-happen journey.
 
"We believe 'Chloe's Closet' has the potential to be the next great preschool brand," said Mark Schaffner, Executive Vice President, Toys for Bandai America.  "Girls want to be more than princesses and in Chloe's world, she can be an astronaut, a race car driver, a jungle explorer, and much more, creating endless opportunities for toys, dress-up and arts and crafts, as kids seek to extend the fun of these adventures with Chloe and her friends."
 

2 June 2009, International Licensing Show Las Vegas - HIT Entertainment, one of the world's leading independent producers and rights owners of children's entertainment and Pleasurecast, the Attractions division of Bandai Namco Group, a leading attractions operator in Japan, are set to launch the country's first Thomas Town attraction in Shinmisato.
 
Located within a brand new shopping centre adjacent to Shin-Misato Station, Thomas Town Shinmisato is approximately 45 minutes from Tokyo Station.  Thomas Town has five themed zones including English Market Place that serves as the heart of the attraction and is the main zone for themed events such a mini-live stage shows and carnival events.  This fully immersive experience also offers children the special use of Thomas & Friends currency to pay for rides and games throughout Thomas Town.
 
Thomas Town Shinmisato will also feature:
 
Attraction Zone that will feature a Thomas & Friends dark ride and a Cranky play structure.
An Educational and Craft Area with a library and activity area for boys and girls.
Café and Museum that offers a quintessentially English setting for mothers to relax.
A Thomas Retail shop including exclusive Thomas Town merchandise and imported product.
 

BRB Internacional has the pleasure to announce the incorporation of Michel Monier as its new International Licensing Director. Under his supervision and in coordination with the Co-production and Sales Department, the development of style scripts, agent selection and contract management in the multinational sphere, among other duties, will be carried out. Michel comes to BRB with a thick merchandising dossier from many outstanding companies -- Toei Animation, The Licensing Company and Carrere Group,  just to name a few - and will be formally be named to his new post at the upcoming Licensing Show in Las Vegas and at  Brand Licensing Europe in London.
 
Michel Monier will head BRB's international licensing team with the firm intention of amply developing the company's catalogue in different countries. In fact, he is already working on boosting the performance of several properties, among them:
The Secret Life of Suckers: the avant-garde cartoon series offering an original X-ray of life itself, starring Art Toy dolls living in cars.
Iron Kid: Currently being aired in open-broadcasts in the US as Eon Kid and a sure bet for strong licensing possibilities because of its success in so many different countries.
Bernard: the famous polar bear who has just come out with his third TV season at the same time that his first TV movie and a stereoscopic feature film for theater viewing with 3D glasses are in the works.
The Imp: The most diabolical animated series on TV whose evil protagonist is bent on flooding every nook and cranny the world over with merchandising.
Angus& Cheryl: The blow-you-away slapstick comedy determined to fill the world with colors - happy blues and pinks - and sounds, like the ones in videogames. 
 
 
 
For more information:
Yolanda Muñoz (PR - BRB Internacional)
E-mail: Yolanda@brb.es    Ph. + 34 91 77 11 400, + 34 91 77 11 497
 
 
BRB Internacional: An international company founded in Spain with more than 35 years experience in the production, distribution and licensing of high quality television programmes. BRB's animated series have been seen around the world, and characters such as David the Gnome, Dogtanian and Willy Fog are widely recognised as classics since back in the '80s. Currently BRB is producing innovative and branded series through the development of its Catalan studio Screen 21 using the latest techniques in design and CG technology - including such successful brands like Bernard, Iron Kid, The Imp, Angus&Cheryl, Papawa, Khuda-Yana or The Secret Life of Suckers. In the field of licensing, the company manages aside of all BRB's titles an impressive catalogue which includes the Cartoon Network's properties for Spain and Portugal (The Powerpuff Girls, Foster's, Ben 10, Bakugan, ...), MGM (Pink Panther), Storm Hawks (Nerd Corps), Dibo and other brands like, Death Note.  For more information, see: www.brb.es
 

Online Marketplace to Open in Fall 2009
 
(May 27, 2009 - LICENSING EXPO - Las Vegas, Nevada) - Corus Entertainment Inc.'s Nelvana Enterprises and Ty's Toy Box, a Brand Performance company, have teamed up to open a one-of-a-kind branded online retail marketplace in Canada. Set to launch this fall, the retail website, www.TysToyBox.ca, will be a complement to Ty's Toy Box successful U.S.-based site, but will focus exclusively on merchandise featuring characters from shows that air on Corus Kids' Treehouse and YTV channels, including The Backyardigans and Max & Ruby.
 
Under the agreement, the site will sell merchandise based on Nelvana Studio productions, as well as from other content partners whose shows broadcast on Treehouse and YTV, such as Nickelodeon (The Backyardigans) and Chorion. Like the Ty's Toy Box U.S. site, which offers over 10,000 TV and movie character licensed products that are often hard to find at other retail locations, the Canadian site will list merchandise by brand for quick recognition and easy accessibility by shoppers. Items for sale will include toys, home furnishings, stationery, apparel and giftware.
 
"This deal represents the first time that Ty's Toy Box has offered an online retail experience in Canada under one all-encompassing television brand," said Mark Northwood, Vice President, Worldwide Licensing, Nelvana Enterprises. "The agreement will exemplify our various partnerships as products will be sold from different content partners who have recognized the benefits of strategically aligning themselves with Corus Kids in Canada in areas such as merchandise licensing, home entertainment and live stage shows."
 
"When it comes to children's television entertainment in Canada, there is no better content partner than Corus, and we are thrilled to be working with them to launch our retail presence in Canada," said Ty Simpson, CEO of Brand Performance, parent company for Ty's Toy Box. "This partnership will leverage Corus' expertise in children's licensed character products and our unique knowledge and capabilities in building brands and retail programs online to create the largest kids online marketplace in Canada."
 
About Corus Entertainment Inc.
Corus Entertainment Inc. is a Canadian-based media and entertainment company. Corus is a market leader in specialty television and radio with additional assets in pay television, advertising services, television broadcasting, children's book publishing and children's animation. The company's multimedia entertainment brands include YTV, Treehouse, W Network, CosmoTV, VIVA, Movie Central, HBO Canada, Nelvana, Kids Can Press and radio stations including CKNW, CKOI and Q107. Corus creates engaging branded entertainment experiences for its audiences across multiple platforms. A publicly traded company, Corus is listed on the Toronto (CJR.B) and New York (CJR) exchanges. Experience Corus on the web at www.corusent.com.
 
About Ty's Toy Box, LLC
Ty's Toy Box, LLC (www.TysToyBox.com) is a leading multi-channel e-tailer of licensed character brands, specializing in the creation, management, marketing and fulfillment of comprehensive, dedicated marketplaces that carry the full breadth of officially licensed product available for each brand.  One of the Brand Performance companies, TysToyBox.com has been responsible for launching breakthrough entertainment brands and cultural favorite classic characters online via its toy and merchandise stores, becoming a leading e-tail destination for character fans worldwide.  Currently, TysToyBox.com features such popular brands as Yo Gabba Gabba™, Super Why!™, Curious George™, Wow Wow Wubbzy™, Care Bears™, Ben 10™, Barney™, Caillou™, Max & Ruby™ and others.  For more information, visit the corporate site at www.BrandPerformance.com
 
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Leading Industry Veterans Jonathan Breiter and Jennifer Zivic to Represent
Fitz Roy's Hottest Kid Properties: Funny Face, Heathcliff and Secret Wings
 
Jon Rosenberg to Represent Properties to Publishing Industry
Richard Oren Will Lead Promotional Programs
 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
 
NEW YORK - (May 27, 2009) - Fitz Roy Media announced today the appointment of Jonathan Breiter and Jennifer Zivic, two of the industry's most respected licensing and merchandising executives, as the designated U.S. licensing agents for the company's slate of children's properties. Breiter and Zivic will launch their representation of Fitz Roy's newest kid franchises including Funny Face, Heathcliff and Secret Wings at the 2009 Licensing International Expo in June.
 
Also added to the team are leading publishing industry executive Jon Rosenberg, who will represent Fitz Roy's slate of properties exclusively throughout the publishing industry and veteran development executive Richard Oren, who will be the exclusive agent handling promotional opportunities.
 
"Breiter, Zivic, Rosenberg and Oren undoubtedly comprise a team of highly regarded industry leaders whose depth of experience and expertise in the kids business would be difficult to match. We are extremely proud of our new association and look forward to their sage guidance in maximizing the potential for our proprietary children's brands," said Fitz Roy Media CEO Hamp Hampton.
 

INNOVATIVE RIDE CREATOR/DESIGN TEAM OF
 3DBA AND FALCON'S TREEHOUSE
 SPAWN TURTLES ATTRACTION
 
New York (May 27, 2009) - 4Kids Entertainment (NYSE: KDE), the diversified children's entertainment and media organization, and Mirage Studios, licensor of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, have approved the development and construction of the first-ever theme park ride for the popular property, which is "Shell-ebrating" its 25th anniversary this year.
 
"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 4-D Dark Ride" - an exhilarating, multi-dimensional Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles experience - will re-invent how fans experience the brand when the ultimate attraction for SciFanta's new Incheon, South Korea-based indoor theme park opens in April, 2011. The multi-sensory elements and vivid details of this project promise to make it a unique, truly immersive experience for park attendees.
 
4Kids and Mirage will work with 3DBA, the location-based organization which develops and delivers innovative attractions and entertainment experiences to theme parks, science centers, shopping malls and other entertainment venues, along with Falcon's Treehouse (FTH), a recognized leader in the successful development of intense, highly scalable personalized emotional experiences.  FTH and 3DBA have collaborated to create such imaginative, compelling and award-winning rides/attractions as Splash Battle, 4-D Dark Ride, CircuMotion™, Flying Theater, and the state-of-the-art 4-D Game Theatre.

The Turtles' attraction builds on 4Kids Entertainment's successful live entertainment experience which, to date, has centered around successful nationwide regional mall tours and multi-character live shows.
 

Yu-Gi-Oh's popularity in Italy continues to grow with new licensees on board

Yu-Gi-Oh!, the smash hit kids franchise from 4Kids Entertainment International, is increasing its presence in Italy with a series of new deals.

After launching in Japan in 1999, Yu-Gi-Oh! has captivated children across the globe. 17 million video games have been sold to date worldwide and over 18.1 billion Yu-Gi-Oh! trading cards have been translated into seven languages and sold in 51 countries worldwide - approximately six million 6-8 year olds collect and play the trading card game across the globe.

The franchise has proved extremely successful in the Italian market.  On TV, Yu-Gi-Oh! GX season 3 continues to air Saturday mornings on Mediaset's Italia 1, which has also acquired the first season of the new Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's series. Set in Domino City, transformed into a futuristic metropolis, 5D's feature duelists battling it out on motorcycles or 'Duel Runners', in a new form of dueling called 'Turbo Duels' - hi-octane contests in which the winners and losers are no longer separated by skill and strength, but by speed.

The brand is equally popular with licensees and new deals include an apparel license with Linea D to include T-shirts, sweatshirts, underwear, jeans, towels, jackets, and shoes, whilst Giochi Preziosi has been signed up for back-to-school and stationery.  A new toy line is due to launch in Fall '09 from Upper Deck, which will include a range of products guaranteed to delight Yu-Gi-Oh! fans - such as action figures, wrist card holders and Duel Runners.

"Yu-Gi-Oh! is hugely popular in Italy and its success shows no signs of abating," said Sandra Vauthier-Cellier, Managing Director of 4Kids Entertainment International.  "The brand is absolutely red hot at the moment and the arrival of 5D's is adding to the excitement surrounding it."

There.com Now Offering Virtual Clothes and Accessories Based On Hit Anime Series

 
FLOWER MOUND, Texas - May 27, 2009 - FUNimation® Entertainment, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Navarre Corporation, today announced that the anime leader is launching its first virtual goods in the popular 3D social virtual world There.com.
 
FUNimation Entertainment joins a host of companies, such as Coca-Cola and NBC, to offer virtual and real world merchandise which There.com members can purchase for their avatars. Members can outfit their virtual alter-ego in Fruits Basket yoga pants or tote bag or they can purchase a limited-edition autographed lithograph for their There.com home.
 
Members can also click through to e-commerce sites to buy the real world version of many of these goods.
 
"We love that Fruits Basket can inspire There.com inhabitants to add a little flair to their avatars and profiles and create a vibrant, virtual world influenced by anime," says Adam Zehner, Director of Acquisitions and Licensing at FUNimation Entertainment.
 
"Virtual goods continue to be increase in popularity with our members," said Michael Wilson, CEO of There.com. "We're pleased to add FUNimation Entertainment to the growing list of partners that offer our members an avenue for self-expression, both in There.com and in the real world."
Items from other FUNimation distributed anime series will appear in There.com later this year.

 
About Makena Technologies, Inc.
Makena Technologies is the parent company of There.com, a fully interactive, 3D online virtual world where members can customize and create their own 3D character, meet and hang out with friends in real-time using voice and text chat, build their own virtual homes, participate in events ranging from car races to paintball to fashion shows and even create and sell their own virtual items. There.com is a safe and exciting "PG-13" environment for ages 13 and up that has something to offer nearly anyone. Makena Technologies has offices in San Mateo, CA and Laguna Beach, CA. For more information, visit http://www.there.com.
 
About FUNimation Entertainment
FUNimation® Entertainment, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Navarre Corporation, is the leading company for home video sales of Japanese animation in the United States.  FUNimation has a proven formula for launching and advancing brands, and manages a full spectrum of rights for most of its brands including broadcasting, licensing, production, internet, and home video sales and distribution. For more information about FUNimation Entertainment and its brands, visit www.funimation.com.
 

Burbank, CA - May 27, 2009 - On the heels of signing its publishing deal with Fantagraphics, Lincoln Butterfield Animation has secured one of the industry's preeminent comic book artists to ink its new RIP, M.D. graphic novel. Mike Vosburg, whose multifaceted background is steeped in horror and fantasy projects, has been tapped to work on the edgy, teen-targeted series.
 
Vosburg will work closely with veteran animation producer Mitch Schauer, who not only created RIP, M.D., but is writing and penciling the book as well. A graphic novel that spins a comical tale about the real-life problems of monsters, RIP, M.D. follows the adventures of Ripley Plimpt, an ordinary boy whose life turns upside-down when he discovers that monsters are not only real, but are also in need of his unique services.
 
"As Mitch began to conceptualize RIP, M.D., Mike was a natural choice," said Michael Lessa of Lincoln Butterfield. "Having worked with Mike in the past, I knew that his background, artistry and sensibilities would be the perfect fit to complement Mitch's pencils. Mike also brings his own witty touch that is sure to enhance our monster story's already playful edge."
 
Mike Vosburg's illustrious career has included several years of work for Marvel and DC before branching into the fields of animation, advertising and film. He has produced artwork for the LA Museum of Tolerance, has drawn the entire run of cover inserts for the HBO Tales from the Crypt series, and won an Emmy as director on the HBO animated series Spawn. Vosburg has done music video storyboards for such notable artists as Eminem, Marilyn Manson and Gwen Stefani. Most recently, he storyboarded The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Prince Caspian and Journey to the Center of the Earth. Vosburg continues to create and produce his own comic book graphic novels Lori Lovecraft and Retrowood.
 
"It's a delight to be involved in a project that is a charming mixture of childhood whimsy in a noir setting," said Vosburg.
 
RIP, M.D. is part of Lincoln Butterfield's growing catalogue of animation properties with the potential for multiplatform extensions. Other titles include the tween properties TAN and NIT: Neighborhood Investigation Team, and mature titles Venture Probe and When in Rome.
 
About Lincoln Butterfield Animation
Lincoln Butterfield Animation specializes in content development across multiple platforms. The versatile, independent studio prides itself on its 90 years of collective animation production experience. Having produced award winning animated TV series for North America, Asia and Europe, the company's core team consists of co-founders Robert Hughes (director, Disney's Phineas and Ferb) and entrepreneur Joseph Walker, along with Mitch Schauer (creator, The Angry Beavers) and producer Michael Lessa (Nickelodeon/Berlin Animation Film). Lincoln Butterfield draws on its relationships with talented writers, artists, directors and technical experts worldwide to develop multi-platform animation properties that combine sophisticated humor with intelligent characters and storytelling. In addition to delivering high-quality content for the broadest possible audience, the company may be hired to provide innovative concept and design services. For more info, visit: www.lincolnbutterfield.com.
 

Industry Leading Online and Mobile Providers Including iTunes, YouTube, Hulu, Joost, Crunchyroll, MashON and Nokia Get Behind The Wheel
 
Las Vegas, Nevada (June 1, 2009) - Speed Racer Enterprises shifts into high-gear for Licensing International with all-new online and mobile brand extensions for both Speed Racer: The Next Generation and the classic animated Speed Racer series.  The iTunes App Store will host a Speed Racer App in their Games and Entertainment category, the division which accounts for a majority of sales in the store.  Full length episodes of both series can be found on several key online television service providers including YouTube and Hulu, the top two video destinations on the Web; Joost, the video portal from the founders of Skype; as well as on the anime and manga fan site, Crunchyroll.
 
Speed Racer fans will be able to take their devotion to the next level with MashON, an easy-to-use creative social media application where users can create 'mashups' by combining their photos, videos and sounds with the popular Speed Racer characters.  The resulting 'mashup' can be instantly distributed across the web, shared on social networks, or produced into greeting cards, comics, posters, and personalized t-shirts or skateboards, among other varied products.
 
Fueling Speed Racer Enterprises' mobile initiatives is a deal with cell phone industry giant, Nokia.  Through ZooVision, a mobile video 3gp streaming content aggregator, a comprehensive offering of the Speed Racer brands has been tailored for Nokia's new handset, the N97, which will have both series pre-programmed onto over 200 million new cell phones rolling out this summer.
 

New Partners Join the 40th Anniversary Celebration


London/New York, 1 June 2009: Leading family entertainment producer and distributor Chorion has signed a number of licensing deals for The World of Eric Carle in the US and Europe and has appointed a new agent, CPLG, for the property in Benelux.

In the US, Crayola will begin a collaboration with The World of Eric Carle with a large format coloring book. JEM will produce tees for juniors and children. Zoobies bring their patent-pending 3-in-1 plush, pillow, blanket concept to The World of Eric Carle characters and Carson-Dellosa will produce a range of classroom products including bulletin board sets, borders, cut-outs and work holders.

Leapfrog Enterprises, Inc., has also signed to produce the Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What Do You See? book for its Tag™ Junior system for 2-4 year olds which will teach about the life of animals through the lens of Eric Carle.

Continuing on from the success last summer in the US with The World of Eric Carle, Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar, the world's largest casual dining restaurant chain with nearly 2,000 locations, will distribute a themed Family Activity Booklet throughout the Spring.

BURBANK, Calif., - May 19, 2009 - Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), on behalf of DC Comics, announced today that it has partnered with renowned global fashion designer Marc Ecko to introduce co-branded, limited-edition collections inspired by one of the most complex and intriguing characters in history, Batman, along with select members from his classic Rogues Gallery.  The new collections will feature a wide range of designs based on an array of some of the most vibrant--and villainous--characters in the DC Universe, including The Joker, Two-Face, Mr. Freeze, Catwoman, Poison Ivy, Harley Quinn, Killer Croc, and others.
 
"Both the Marc Ecko and the DC Comics brands resonate with an expansive and loyal fan base made up in large part by today's youth culture," said Karen McTier, Executive Vice President, Domestic Licensing and Worldwide Marketing, Warner Bros. Consumer Products. "Through this exclusive partnership, we are able to present trendsetting fashions to these fans at a level only Marc Ecko can attain."
 
Using fashion-forward graphics inspired by the dark edginess of the Caped Crusader, the new line will include a  range of limited-edition items such as hoodies, tees, woven shirts, headwear and watches all designed by Marc and his creative team.  The product lines will appeal to a diverse youth culture that is influenced by indie music, art, martial arts and skating.
 

BURBANK, CA (May 19, 2009) - Cookie Jar Entertainment, a global leader in consumer products and entertainment, will showcase a wide range of properties at this year's Licensing Show. Girls' favorite Strawberry Shortcake, classic book-inspired Richard Scarry, comedic-adventure series Johnny Test, mom-targeted Mommy & Me and evergreen Caillou are among the Cookie Jar properties that will be featured.
 
As Strawberry Shortcake's global licensing agent, Cookie Jar Entertainment is building on the brand's retail success and enduring appeal with a new look and storyline, created by American Greetings Properties, and re-imagined for a whole new generation of girls. Cookie Jar is celebrating this new look by signing a host of new licensees. Children's Apparel Network has been named master apparel licensee with a clothing line set to debut this fall, featuring t-shirts, fashion apparel, daywear and active wear. Additional new licensees include Saramax (sleepwear), MTC (outerwear), Berkshire Fashions (outerwear and cold weather accessories), Added Extras (HBA products), Penguin (publishing), Dalmatian Press (coloring/activity books), ES Originals (bags) and In Zone Brands (beverages).
 

Oxford, 19 May 2009. Leading independent producer Novel Entertainment is further expanding the reach of its hit property Horrid Henry, appointing Stella Projects as licensing agent for the brand in Australia and New Zealand.
This appointment comes on the heels of a number of recent licensing and merchandising deals signed by Novel's licensing partner Copyright Promotions for Horrid Henry, including a master toy license deal with Re:creation and an apparel deal with Mothercare. Novel has also signed a DVD distribution deal for the second series of Horrid Henry with Abbey Home Media Group and other key partners include EMI as record licensee, Universal as music publisher and Asylum as electronic game partner.
Caroline Mickler, Consultant for Novel Entertainment who brokered the deal with Stella Projects says: "Horrid Henry's popularity continues to grow and we are excited to be working with Stella Projects to bring him to new audiences in Australia and New Zealand. Stella has a great reputation in these territories so we are looking forward to securing new partners for the property."

BURBANK, Calif., - May 12, 2009 - Holy Textiles, Batman!  Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) announced today that it has granted a multi-property licensee agreement with home textile industry leader, The Northwest Company, to create an array of licensed home goods spanning multiple property lines.
 
Recognized as the number one throw and pillow manufacturer in the United States, The Northwest Company will have access to an arsenal of WBCPs entertainment properties such as Harry Potter, Looney Tunes, Scooby-Doo, Tom and Jerry and other Hanna Barbera properties.  Additionally, The Northwest Company will also have access to DC Comics' portfolio, including legendary Super Heroes Batman, Superman, Supergirl, DC Originals and The Justice League.
 

The newly founded division of The Jim Henson Company will represent Kamibashi's
oll Gang" as exclusive world wide licensing agent for consumer products
and entertainment  
 
 
HOLLYWOOD, CA (May 11, 2009)- The HUB, the newly-formed division at The Jim Henson Company
responsible for licensing products for third party properties, has signed on with Kamibashi Corporation based in
Asheville, North Carolina to act as an exclusive licensing agent for THE STRING DOLL GANG, a band of kooky
characters in the form of handmade string figures, each with his or her own special power that is always positive
and helpful. 
 

Zinkia signs new merchandising deal for Pocoyo.
 
 
Spanish creative factory Zinkia has inked a merchandising deal for Spain with shoe designer and manufacturer Crocs, which sees the launch of a range of kids' shoes featuring top pre-school character Pocoyo.
 
The kids' Crocs, available in blue or pink, will hit the shelves in Spain in May 2009, and feature the eponymous Pocoyo on the white heel strap. This is the latest product line in an extensive range of merchandising and licensing goods based on the CGI animated series co-produced by Zinkia and ITV Global Entertainment.
 
Since the series debuted on TVE in October 2006, Pocoyo has become the number one pre-school property in Spain. Pocoyo currently airs on TVE2, where it achieved a 46% share amongst 4-6 year olds. On the toy front, master toy licensee Bandai has shifted over 1.5million toys in Spain, whilst Big Picture, which handles home entertainment in Spain and Portugal, has sold over 1 million units. The publishing sector is also performing well, with Planeta, which handles publishing rights in Spain, selling over half a million books to date.
 
The BAFTA-award winning series, licensed to over 100 countries worldwide has also notched up a strong internet following. The official Pocoyo web site, www.pocoyo.com, is now available in 9 different languages, and has registered over 16 million content downloads to date and over 2.7million unique visitors.
 

Daewon Media of Korea is well into production of TV animated GON.
 
 
Daewon Media has revealed its plan to open the first 3D artworks of GON, a TV animation series, to
public during the Licensing International Expo held in Las Vegas, USA this June. 
 
"GON" is a fictional character in a shape of a small dinosaur with unimaginable power and speed. 
The story takes place in the wild where GON goes through each uproarious day with other animals. 
  
Originally created by Tanaka Masashi (田中政志) in 1992 on a Kodansha's weekly cartoon
magazine 'Morning', GON got much attention from the fans worldwide with its detailed drawing of
various animal characters, very much like that of real life. It was especially known for its story-telling
where no dialogues and no human ever appear throughout the entire story, relying only on the
images.  This was a never been done method that caught everyone's attention.  However it
maintained to be fresh and funny, keeping its core message.
 

London, 5th May 2009 - ITV Global Entertainment Ltd has appointed the leading licensing company Jakks Pacific, Inc to represent the globally established online and television girls' property Bella Sara(tm) in the USA and Canada markets.
 
The new deal, brokered by Marina Lum-Kang, SVP, Brand Extensions and Marketing, North America at ITV Global Entertainment Ltd, will see Jakks Pacific, Inc, develop the brand through distribution deals with toy stores, mass market retailers, mail order companies and online outlets.   The license acquired encompasses a range of products including feature plush toys, figurines, dolls, play-sets, dress-up, kites and stationery.
 
Created for children aged 5 to 13 years old, Bella Sara is the award winning and hugely popular international children's entertainment property set in a magical world of horses. Originally launched in Denmark by creator Gitte Odder Braendgaard, Bella Sara inspires pro-social dialogue and thought with positive messages, with the objective of stimulating children's imaginations through interactive play. After its introduction to the U.S. in 2007 by Hidden City Games, Inc., Bella Sara quickly expanded globally into a leading international children's entertainment property featuring trading cards, a virtual world, toys, apparel, animation and more.