King Features has appointed Copyrights Asia as master licensee in Japan for its properties, which include Popeye the Sailor Man and Betty Boop.

American Features was previously the master licensee in the region for King Features.

Cathleen Titus, Vice President of International Licensing for King Features sited changing strategic goals as the reason for the switch.

“We have had a long and close relationship in the territory with American Features, who has been a very able and honorable partner. We very much appreciate all their contributions to our global program,” says Cathleen Titus, vice president of international licensing, King Features. “Re-examining our strategic plans in today’s challenging economic climate however, we have elected to proceed in a different direction in that market. Copyrights’ expertise in critical areas such as retail promotion will offer us new opportunities to enhance our brand presence in Japan.”