Tokyo-based Toei Animation Co. Ltd. appointed FUNimation Entertainment as agent to act on its behalf in North American licensing and merchandising activities for one if its signature series, “One Piece.”

In addition to managing home entertainment and theatrical distribution for the animated pirate adventure series and its films, FUNimation Entertainment is currently securing major partners within all key categories of licensing, including toys and games and collectible figures based on the characters and styling of the series.

“One Piece” is currently in its third season, airing Saturday nights as part of Cartoon Network’s Toonami block. The first FUNimation released “One Piece” DVD hit shelves last week. Following an exclusive run in 98 theaters nationwide, One Piece Movie 8—the Desert Princess and the Pirates Adventures in Alabasta was released on DVD on Feb. 19. The first FUNimation dubbed television series episodes will be released on DVD in May.