Weekly E-news, Issue #253, February 26, 2008

Toy Fair Wrap-Up: Cabbage Patch and Little Ponies Kick Off a Wave of Anniversary Celebrations
What was the newest, hottest trend at New York’s International Toy Fair in 2008? Strangely, it seems to be celebrating 1983. Or 1948, or 1993, or even 1928. Buyers and press were presented with a plethora of anniversary-themed products for big properties, and leading the way is the 25th anniversary of toy phenomena Cabbage Patch Kids and My Little Pony.

For Cabbage Patch Kids, licensing and marketing agent 4Kids Entertainment Inc., along with property owner Original Appalachian Artworks Inc., and master toy licensee, Play Along, a division of Jakks Pacific Inc., are kicking off a yearlong celebration, which will include re-releasing the original dolls and lining up several corporate partnerships.

To kick off the birthday festivities, Celebration Foods and Carvel have teamed up with the Cabbage Patch Kids and Play Along for a special 25th anniversary celebration launching this spring and continuing through fall 2008. The yearlong cross promotions between Cabbage Patch Kids and Carvel will include TV and print ads, franchise and supermarket programs, online promos, in-pack sweepstakes, and an exclusive Carvel ice cream-eating, celebration-themed Cabbage Patch Kid created by Play Along.

The second item to commemorate the anniversary is the Anniversary Cabbage Patch Kids, which ship this fall and replicate the vintage fashions, hairstyles, and facial expressions of the classic Kid. Each will be accompanied by commemorative silver-stamped 25th Anniversary Birth Certificates and Adoption Papers.

Additionally, Burger King is currently offering 16 different Collectible Cabbage Patch Kids Minis with the purchase of any BK Kids Meal, through March 9.

For My Little Pony, Hasbro kicked off a yearlong global celebration on Feb. 18 at the Hasbro Toy Fair showroom in New York City. Titled “The My Little Pony Project: 25 Ponies for 25 Years,” the program will invite international pop culture influentials such as celebrities, fashion designers, brands, artists, collectors, and kids to design a collection of 25 one-of-a-kind My Little Pony 18-inch figures. Hasbro will also be re-releasing the seven original Ponies this year.

Hasbro officially launched the program with the unveiling of the first two custom ponies: a “Silver” pony from Hasbro and Twinkle Hope, a pony designed for Give Kids The World Village. Give Kids The World Village is a nonprofit organization that works to fulfill the wishes of all children with life-threatening illnesses and the charitable partner for the My Little Pony 25th birthday celebration. Hasbro hopes to introduce 23 additional one-of-a-kind project ponies throughout the year. A miniature version of the Twinkle Hope pony will be available for purchase as part of the My Little Pony toy line.

In September, the project will culminate in a gallery exhibition in New York City where “The My Little Pony Project: 25 Ponies for 25 Years” collection will be on display in its entirety for the very first time. The entire “The My Little Pony Project: 25 Ponies for 25 Years” collection will be available for auction, with proceeds going to Give Kids The World Village.

Other brands celebrating anniversaries this year with new products include:

Playmates Toys Gains Master Toy License for ’09 Star Trek Film
Playmates Toys will launch a collectible lineup of all-new toys coinciding with next summer’s release of the Paramount film Star Trek, directed by J.J. Abrams. The line will include action figures, vehicles, playsets, and role-play toys.

Arriving on store shelves in spring 2009, the first phase of the new Star Trek toys will include action figures—3.75-inch, 6-inch, and 9-inch—as well as a special 12-inch scale of collector figures. Additionally, the line will include basic role-play toys and deluxe versions with electronic features; playsets that are compatible with the 3.75-inch action figures; vehicles, such as the USS Enterprise; and more.

HIT Entertainment Reveals New ‘Thomas’ Film, Merchandise Push
HIT Entertainment’s Thomas the Tank Engine will star in a new feature-length DVD special, The Great Discovery, in fall 2008. Due in stores on Sept. 9, The Great Discovery is the first Thomas & Friends release to be narrated by Pierce Brosnan, who will also voice the new PBS series launching in September.

Toy partners Learning Curve and HIT Toy, as well as publishing partner Random House, will be supporting this title with all-new tie-in products. Additionally, the grassroots Day Out With Thomas tour will be themed The Great Discovery in 2008. HIT Entertainment and key partners will support The Great Discovery with a national multimedia advertising campaign, including TV, print, and online.

Additionally, at the recent New York Toy Fair HIT ToyCo unveiled the first-ever line of Thomas & Friends consumer products designated for the preschool-aged Thomas & Friends fans, available at retail this fall. The line will feature remote-controlled trains, as well as kid-targeted electronics.

‘America’s Next Top Model’ Dolls Head Down the Runway
MGA Entertainment, manufacturer of Bratz dolls, has teamed up with CBS Consumer Products to produce a new line of fashion dolls based on the reality show “America’s Next Top Model,” debuting this spring at retailers across the country.

The doll line launches with three characters in two different clothing lines—swimwear and casual daywear. Each of the dolls, which are not based on actual contestants from the CW series, has its very own back-story.

“‘America’s Next Top Model’ has been such an extraordinary phenomenon and MGA is proud to unveil the only line of fashion dolls from the hit TV show,” says MGA’s president and CEO Isaac Larian. “We strongly believe in the show’s message of pursuing one’s dreams and hope that this doll line continues to promote that same message.”

Yottoy to Head Up Scholastic Media’s SideKicks Toy Division
Scholastic Media has signed an agreement with New York-based toy design company Yottoy Productions Inc. to manage Scholastic’s SideKicks toy division. Under the agreement, Yottoy will manage sales, marketing, and product development for SideKicks. The agreement will incorporate Yottoy’s creative vision in the specialty market to offer a broader range of products inspired by Scholastic’s library of children’s brands, which include Clifford The Big Red Dog, Kim Parker kids, The Real Mother Goose, and storybook characters from author/illustrator David Shannon.

Yottoy launched the concept of a book-toy product combination in order to encourage a special interaction between children and literature. Yottoy’s existing book-toy collections include award-winning author and illustrator Mo Willems’ Pigeon and Knuffle Bunny, H.A. Rey's Curious George and Friends, and classic characters such as Paddington Bear, Maisy, Harry the Dog, and The Velveteen Rabbit.

“We are thrilled to partner with such an established and trusted company as Scholastic,” says Kate Karcher Clark, founder of Yottoy Productions. “Scholastic’s reputation and inherent message is consistent with Yottoy’s mission of developing high-quality toys that are rooted in children’s literature.”

CBS Properties Become Games Thanks to Hasbro and University Games
Hasbro will launch DVD and co-branded games based on “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” the top-rated television series, as the result of a deal with CBS Consumer Products. The first game is slated to debut in fall 2008.

Additionally, University Games will introduce “Brady Bunch,” “Cheers,” and “Happy Days” board games in the United States and Canada.

“These deals are perfect examples of our strategy to mine CBS’s deep portfolio of iconic television series across many game platforms,” says Liz Kalodner, executive vice president and general manager of CBS Consumer Products. “The innovative DVD and board games will create new ways for consumers of all ages to interact with their favorite television characters.”

Hannah Montana Wins Property of the Year at Toy Awards
The Toy Industry Association Inc. presented its annual Toy of the Year Awards Feb. 16, at the beginning of the New York Toy Fair. Top honors went to Spin Master Ltd.’s Air Hogs Havoc Heli Laser Battle, but several licensed products were also represented among the winners.

Disney Consumer Products’ Hannah Montana brand, showcased across a wide range of licensees at the 2008 Toy Fair, won the award for Property of the Year. Hasbro’s Transformers movie Deluxe figures won Boy Toy of the Year. Techno Source’s Rubik’s Revolution, produced under license from Rubik rights holders Seven Towns Ltd., won Game of the Year.

BBC Worldwide Scoops Toy of Year and Boys Collectable Awards
BBC Worldwide scooped two awards at the UK’s Toy Retailer’s Association Top Toys of 2007.

BBC Worldwide, with production company Ragdoll and licensee Hasbro, picked up Toy of the Year with In the Night Garden Blanket Time Igglepiggle. Character Group picked up the Boys Collectable award for Doctor Who figures.

Gill Pritchard, director of children’s, says, “In the Night Garden has had a truly fantastic year since launch—and the success of Hasbro’s toy lines is testament to the mass appeal of the enchanting characters created by Ragdoll. Character Group’s Doctor Who range has had tremendous support from retailers up and down the country and with series 4 on the horizon we have higher hopes for 2008.”

Techno Source Unveils Disney Fairies Toys Powered by New Technology
Disney Consumer Products introduced its new partnership with the electronic toymaker Techno Source at Toy Fair last week. The partnership produced Disney Fairies toys featuring Clickables technology. Developed as an exclusive collaboration between Disney and Techno Source, the Clickables technology enables girls to extend their virtual playtime in Disney Fairies Pixie Hollow—Disney’s latest online virtual world—with friends offline, into the real world, with patent-pending technology.

The new Disney Fairies collection featuring Clickables technology was previewed at a private event held last week at the 2008 American International Toy Fair in New York City. The collections will be available at retail this fall in conjunction with the animated release of Tinker Bell on Disney DVD.

The Disney Fairies line featuring Clickables technology includes several categories of role-play jewelry and accessories with features that are activated online and then played with and traded between girls in the real world.

Hasbro Licenses Sideshow to Make High-End G.I. Joe Figures
Sideshow Collectibles has signed an agreement with Hasbro Inc., through its licensing division HPG, to create a new line of 12-inch figures based on characters from the 'G.I. Joe Vs. Cobra' Universe, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2007 and is poised to leap to the big-screen in 2009.

"This is a golden era for G.I. Joe, and Sideshow is proud to share in the excitement around the 25th Anniversary of G.I. Joe Vs. Cobra ' and the coming film," says Sideshow Collectibles' president and CEO Greg Anzalone. "Collectors can look forward to an incredible line from Sideshow—it's really a line created by fans for fans—very detailed and utilizing the best modern production techniques, and heavily inspired by the classic Real American Hero era designs. It's a fresh approach to G.I. Joe.”

The figures are expected to release beginning in third quarter 2008.

‘Roary’ Motors With New Deals
Chapman Entertainment’s preschool animation series “Roary the Racing Car” is motoring with a raft of new licensing deals in the UK and overseas.

The property now has 30 UK licensees on board including latest signings: Titan Publishing Group Ltd for a Roary magazine; Mondo Plastic for vinyl playballs; PIL (Publications International Ltd) for Roary sound books; and Bayliss & Harding for toiletries.

Gosh International has recently increased its range of categories to include plastic furniture in addition to the Frisbees, hoppers, play balls and buckets, and spades already agreed.

In Scandinavia, K E Mathiasen has added bedding, home wear, apparel, and melamine products categories to its existing shared master toy license with Top Toy.

Jakks Brings Children’s Favorites Together Under ‘Child Guidance’ Toy Banner
Seven children’s properties are banding together this fall to form the new Child Guidance line of preschool toys from Jakks Pacific Inc. The Wiggles, Curious George, Barney, Teletubbies, Miffy, Max & Ruby, and Clifford are all part of the array of plush, plastic and electronic products that make up the Child Guidance line.

Products showcased at last week’s New York Toy Fair included a range of plush for many of the characters that include DVD episodes of their respective TV shows, as well as products like The Wiggles 2-in-1 Wiggling Musical Guitar, and the Sing and Celebrate Barney.

Paramount Announces New Deals at Toy Fair
Paramount Licensing showed off product from new and recent licensing deals at February’s New York Toy Fair. New licensees for Paramount’s Godfather franchise, celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, include Endless Games, which will release a trivia game; JADA Toys, releasing a 1:18 scale replica car from the film, as well as other vehicles branded with the Godfather logo; and Sideshow Toy, releasing a 1:4 scale sculpture. Mattel was also showing off its newest Barbie dolls based on the film Grease.

Devil’s Due Announces New Collectible Line, First Offerings
Devil’s Due, the Chicago-based comic book company, is expanding its reach with a new line of toys and collectibles called Devil’s Due Pop. Beginning in March with a package of classically retro Golden Age Sheena: Queen of the Jungle stickers, the new imprint will release an array of vinyl toys, personal journals, and usable artwork based on the properties that have made Devil's Due Publishing one of the 10 largest comic-book publishers in the United States.

In April, the company will release a Halloween journal covered with artwork from artists such as Bill Siekiewicz and Sean Phillips, who are covering Devil's Due's current Michael Myers miniseries Halloween: Nightdance. May will see the release of an original plush Geeky Ninja straight from the Ninjatown line by Shawnimals. Then, in June, Devil’s Due Pop will release its first vinyl figure based on Dirge from James Farr's Xombie: Reanimated.

Still to come will be an original transforming vinyl toy from indie-comics creator Jeffrey Brown, based on his Top Shelf comic The Incredible Change-Bots. First out will be Brown's robot Balls, who transforms between his battle-ready robot guise into an unsuspecting golf cart.

Universal Names IToys Master Toy Licensee for Despereaux
IToys Inc. was named master toy licensee for The Tale of Despereaux, the upcoming animated adventure from Universal Pictures. Universal Studios Consumer Products Group has tapped IToys to produce a wide range of toys, including plush and electronic games, as well as room decor. The film is based on the bestselling book by author Kate DiCamillo (Because of Winn-Dixie).

The first introductions in IToys’ The Tale of Despereaux collection this fall will include traditional plush, a 9-inch feature plush, and electronic games.

DuneCraft to Produce Terrariums for Universal’s Curious George
DuneCraft has entered into a multiyear licensing agreement with Universal Studios Consumer Products Group to create Curious George Themed Terrariums and Seed Kits. DuneCraft’s Curious George Terrarium and Seed Kits will target preschool age children and will include everything needed to sprout fun, educational, indoor gardens. All plants will sprout in a week or less, and are guaranteed to grow. The products will be introduced to the marketplace in June 2008.

‘Zula Patrol’ Announces DVD Release, Partners With Toobeez
“The Zula Patrol,” public television’s science and astronomy series for 4- to 8-year-olds, will launch on DVD this March with two initial titles. Distributed by Liberation Home Entertainment, the two DVDs are “The Zula Patrol: Explore Space!” and “The Zula Patrol: Explore Weather!” Each title contains four episodes each from the series plus interactive elements.

“The Zula Patrol” DVDs will debut exclusively at Border’s stores and at www.borders.com, at a special introductory price.

Additionally, Zula USA LLC entered into a multiyear licensing partnership with Connectable Color Tubes LLC, makers of the construction toy Toobeez. Under terms of their arrangement, Toobeez will develop and market a line of life-sized toy construction building systems based on “The Zula Patrol,” scheduled to launch in the fourth quarter of 2008 in North America.

Sideshow Collectibles Gains License for Hellboy II From Universal
Sideshow Collectibles will produce new collectibles based on the upcoming film Hellboy II: The Golden Army. Licensed by Universal Studios Consumer Products Group, the collectibles will become available in time for the July 11 action-thriller release. Sideshow will release collectible 12-inch figures, premium-format figures, prop replicas of Hellboy’s guns, and life-sized busts.

Jakks Pacific to Produce Animal Planet Pet Products
Jakks Pacific Inc. has signed a North American licensing agreement with Discovery Communications' Discovery Commerce division to make a line of pet products based on the Animal Planet brand.

The line, which will begin shopping to mass and pet retailers for spring 2008, will include pet toys, apparel, costumes, collars, leashes, identification tags, feeders, bowls, training aids, treats, and grooming products for dogs and cats.

Neopets Show Off New Toys, Trading Cards
The first wave of a new line of products based on Neopets, the largest global youth-focused virtual world, is now available at Target stores and target.com and is expected to expand to full retail distribution for Fall 2008, according to Nickelodeon & Viacom Consumer Products. The line includes Series 1 of collector plush from Jakks Pacific, as well as Fun Paks and Trading Cards created by Enterplay. The products feature an online component that ties to Neopets.com with exclusive virtual prize codes.

While Neopets.com membership and wealth of content is free and open to all, the exclusive virtual prize codes provide premium play experiences for members who purchase Neopets toys. Neopets.com has more than 44 million global registered users.

The Jakks collectible plush line focuses on the extensive variety of Neopets species and characters featured throughout the world of Neopia. The product plans include multiple plush series with both limited and retired editions, designed make the plush line collectible.

All the products will converge and tie into a new multiplayer gaming and collecting experience, called “Neopets Key Quest.” The product packaging contains codes that allow kids to unlock virtual game pieces representing both plush and trading card characters as part of their Neopets Key Quest play experience. Kids can collect and show-off their Key Quest virtual game pieces in the Key Quest Collectors’ Case on www.neopets.com/keyquest. Members are also rewarded with special virtual game pieces for collecting an entire series of plush toys. NeoCash cards, which launched in 2007 are another form of cash payment for Neopets’ virtual items and tie into Key Quest by unlocking special Collector Case decorative themes.

Fun Paks from Enterplay have a suggested retail price of $1.99, and feature a mix of trading cards, tattoos, stickers, pop-up cards, mini-games and trivia-cards. In addition to the basic pak, multi-paks will also be available.

Horrid Henry Goes International as UK Toy Range Launched
Independent producer Novel Entertainment struck an international sales and distribution deal with Little Bird Rights to distribute the “Horrid Henry” television animation series around the world, excluding the UK. Commissioned by CITV in the UK, the 52 x 11 minute 2D animation series will be available to buyers at MIPTV 2008. The show most recently sold to Disney Channel in France, with sales also brokered with ZDF Germany, RTE Eire, RUV Iceland, SVT Sweden, NRK Norway, and YLE Finland. Deals are also currently being negotiated for South Africa, Turkey, and Portugal.

Based on the books written by Francesca Simon and illustrated by Tony Ross (published by Orion Children's Books), Horrid Henry is a worldwide publishing success. Sales are approaching 11 million books in the UK, and Henry is available in 27 countries and has been translated into 22 languages.

Licensing and merchandising deals signed by Novel’s licensing partner Copyright Promotions include a master toy license deal in the UK with Re:creation, which launched a collection of games, toys, and room decor at London Toy Fair.

Martha Stewart Acquires Emeril Lagasse Brand Assets
Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia reached an agreement with Chef Emeril Lagasse to acquire the assets related to the business of Emeril Lagasse, other than the restaurant and foundation-related assets.

Under the terms of the transaction, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia is acquiring the rights to the Emeril Lagasse franchise, including television programming (“The Essence of Emeril” and syndication episodes of “Emeril Live” on The Food Network, and food correspondent segments on ABC's “Good Morning America”); a library of 12 cookbooks; the emerils.com Web site; licensed kitchen products (Emeril-branded cookware by All-Clad, cutlery by Wusthof, tableware by Wedgwood, and electrical appliances by T-fal); and food products (including Bam! B-Q sauce, spices, marinades, coffee, and more).

Lagasse's 11 restaurants and corporate office, which is called Emeril's Homebase, will be unaffected by this transaction and will continue to operate in New Orleans with full staff. The company will continue to expand into new locations.

"Emeril brings talent, energy, and legions of fans to the Martha Stewart family, along with a powerful brand and an attractive, profitable business franchise," says Susan Lyne, president and CEO of MSLO. "Emeril's high-quality food-related content and product lines complement our own, and offer multiplatform expansion opportunities. This acquisition is a significant one strategically as we expand and diversify our business by applying our expertise in managing multiplatform lifestyle brands."

HIT and Dubailand Strike Strategic Alliance
Dubailand, a member of Tatweer, has formed a strategic alliance with UK-based HIT Entertainment to develop a portfolio of family entertainment projects at Global Village in Dubailand, the tourism, leisure, and entertainment destination.

Highlight of the alliance will be the creation of the world’s first HIT Entertainment “Little Big Club” in Dubai—a 25,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor project designed around the characters Barney, Pingu, Bob the Builder, and Thomas & Friends with themed rides and indoor and outdoor play-centers. The Little Big Club, set to open its doors in the last quarter of 2008, will also feature party and educational function spaces and a theatre that will present mini live shows as well as screening television.

Bruce Steinberg, chief executive of HIT Entertainment, says, “This project represents an important strategic direction for the company and ushers in a new era for our live events and attractions business.”

Dubailand and HIT Entertainment will also work together to develop new concepts, including live shows, themed restaurants, and retail outlets that will be open year-round at Global Village.

UK-based theme park designers RMA will design the park layout, rides, and project-manage all architectural, scenic, and technical aspects of the club. Its portfolio includes Cadbury’s Story, the Jorvik in York, Drusilla’s Park in East Sussex, and the new Thomas Land in the UK, set to open at Drayton Manor Park in March.

Dora to Explore Live Action
Nickelodeon will develop its hit animated preschool series “Dora the Explorer” into a live-action, prime-time television movie. The TV movie will feature Dora as a 10-year-old live-action Latina heroine in an all-new adventure enhanced by CG special effects.

“We are thrilled for our viewers to see their favorite Latina heroine come to life in a new, vibrant live-action world,” says Brown Johnson, president, Animation, Nickelodeon and MTV Networks Kids and Family Group. “Dora will be a little older for her high-stakes live-action adventure, which we think will be very exciting for our preschool audience, as well as kids and their families who have grown up watching the show over the last seven years.”

‘Sammy’s Story Shop’ Brings Classic Scholastic Books to TV
Qubo, the TV and online entertainment service for children, signed a deal with children’s publishing and media company Scholastic to license “Sammy’s Story Shop.” The anthology series, produced by Scholastic’s Weston Woods Studio, boasts a library of animated video adaptations of classic children’s books.

Qubo has licensed 26 episodes of the series to begin airing on the qubo digital channel in second quarter of 2008. “Sammy’s Story Shop” brings best-selling and award-winning children’s books to life, including such titles as Snowy Day, Make Way For Ducklings, Harold and the Purple Crayon, Tikki Tikki Tembo, and The Napping House, among many others. Each episode opens with an animated introduction by Sammy, the Story-Chef extraordinaire.

“We are delighted to present this wonderful Weston Woods series and hope it will inspire parents to introduce their favorite childhood books to their children,” says Rick Rodriguez, president and general manager, qubo. “‘Sammy’s Story Shop’ hits the bull’s eye in qubo’s mission to promote literacy and entertain children while nurturing a love of reading.“

Aerosmith to Star in First Single-Band ‘Guitar Hero’ Game
Activision Inc.'s Guitar Hero: Aerosmith, slated for release this June, is the first game in the popular Guitar Hero series to be focused around a single band. Gamers will be able to experience Aerosmith's Grammy-winning career, from their first gig to present day.

"Having a game built around Aerosmith has been a huge honor and really a great experience for us," says Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry. "We've put a lot of ideas into the game so that fans can have fun interacting with our music, getting inside our body of work and learning about the band's history."

Although Aerosmith is the main focus of the game, players will be able to play along with both Aerosmith's greatest hits, as well as songs from celebrated artists that the band has either performed with or has been inspired by in some way. Guitar Hero: Aerosmith is being developed by Neversoft Entertainment for the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. The Wii version is being developed by Vicarious Visions. The PlayStation 2 version is being developed by Budcat.

Brand Licensing Europe Announces New Exhibitors
Brand Licensing Europe, which is set to be held Oct. 1-2, 2008, in London, recently announced several new exhibitors.

American Retro Museum, Bulldog Licensing, Cartoon Network, Caroline Jane Church, Ludorom, Mary Evans Picture Library, The Picture Production Company, Punch Cartoon Library, and Sublevel Studios are all to appear at the London event for the very first time this autumn.

Sharper Image Files for Bankruptcy
Sharper Image Corporation last week announced that it had commenced a case under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The Company intends to continue to conduct business as usual while it devotes renewed efforts to resolve its operational and liquidity problems and develops a reorganization plan.

A few days prior to the filing, Sharper Image named Ron Conway as its new CEO. Conway, of the firm Conway, Del Genio, Gries & Co. is a crisis management and company repair expert.

Chorion’s Karp to Deliver Keynote at First Kids Licensing Forum in Bologna
The first Kid’s Licensing Forum, a special event at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair and the first European event dedicated specifically to licensing for children and teens, will be held this April 3 in Bologna, Italy. The keynote speaker will be Eric Karp, executive vice president, global licensing and merchandising, Chorion Ltd. 40 companies and 15 exhibitors are already confirmed to attend.

The event is organized in cooperation with LIMA, and is being sponsored by Teamworks, Grani and Partners, Rai Trade, Edibas, Licensing Italia, SUK Srl, Atlantyca, and Starbight Licensing Agency. License! Global Magazine  is the official media partner for Kids Licensing Forum.

For more information, go to kidslicensingforum.com.

Fall Out Boy Falls In With Dabel Brothers for Comic Book
The Dabel Brothers, known for their line of comic book literary adaptations. have reached an agreement with the band Fall Out Boy to produce and publish an exclusive comic-book project. The project will be developed in collaboration with the band, with heavy involvement in particular from bassist Pete Wentz and drummer Andy Hurley.

"I've been a fan of comics my whole life and when the Dabel Brothers approached us about doing a story with Fall Out Boy, it was like a dream come true,” says Hurley. “I'm excited to have the opportunity to create different versions of ourselves and tell an interesting story at the same time."

The project, which was negotiated by Dabel Brother’s Business Director Rich Young, will consist of multiple issues, and will be shipping sometime in 2008.

Universal Inks Deal to Make Movies Based on Hasbro Toys and Games
Universal Pictures and Hasbro have formed a six-year strategic partnership to produce at least four feature films based on some of Hasbro's toy brands including Monopoly, Candy Land, Clue, Ouija, Battleship, Magic, the Gathering, and Stretch Armstrong.

Under the terms of the deal, Hasbro will partner exclusively with Universal Pictures for feature films, with the exception of Transformers and G.I. Joe, which are at Paramount.

The first film emerging from the deal will be released in 2010 or 2011, and Universal will release at least one film a year after that. There are no stars, directors, or producers yet attached to any of the film projects.

"Hasbro's portfolio of products has tremendous emotional resonance with children and adults," say Universal Pictures co-chairmen Marc Shmuger and David Linde. "They offer an exciting opportunity for us to develop tentpole movies with built-in global brand awareness, which is a key component of our slate strategy."

The deal was brokered by William Morris on behalf of Hasbro. William Morris is also shopping a “Trivial Pursuit” TV game show to the networks or possibly syndication.

Goosebumps Adds Chills with HorrorLand
Scholastic Media is capitalizing on the upcoming launch of Goosebumps HorrorLand, an all-new, 12-book original series by worldwide bestselling author and master of horror R.L. Stine, as well as the series’ recent successful return to television on Cartoon Network, by expanding the brand’s spine-tingling consumer connection. A new multi-platform interactive game, DVD, audio, and apparel line mark the start of a consumer products program in 2008. Additional deals in multiple categories are currently in the works.

“Goosebumps is a phenomenon. Unprecedented sales of the book series, a top-rated TV series, and a successful DVD line all speak to the amazing endurance of this brand,” says Leslye Schaefer, senior vice president, Consumer Products Scholastic Media. “Goosebumps HorrorLand marks a new chapter in the franchise’s history and we’re building a program that will support fans’ voracious hunger for this property.”

Crocs Adds NBA License
Crocs Inc. has expanded its licensing business with an agreement covering the National Basketball Association. The agreement, which covers both Crocs footwear and Jibbitz charms, allows Crocs to license agreed logos for all 30 NBA teams and related NBA properties.

NBA branded Crocs shoes—including the Mammoth model, created for cold weather wear—will be available prior to the start of the 2008-2009 season at www.crocs.com and select retail outlets.

The agreement adds to Crocs' library of license agreements, which also includes rights to all NHL, NFL and MLB teams and over 75 major colleges and universities. Similar to the company's Collegiate Licensing program, the products include a primary team color for the shoe and an alternate team color for the heel strap with the team name and/or logo placed on the heel strap and on the side of the shoe.

New Licenses in Store for Cartoon Network
Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE), the brand management and licensing arm of the greater Cartoon Network entertainment group, continues to build merchandising relationships for its top properties. Cartoon Network’s hottest original animated television series—“Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends” and “Ben 10”—will continue to generate interest by making new inroads in apparel. Many products will be an extension or an expansion of an existing or similar line of merchandise.

On the Foster’s front, CNE has licensed the rights for the animated program to four new partners: Horizon Imports (hosiery), the Design International Group (stationery), Freeze (T-shirts); and Boston America (personal care).

As for Ben 10, CNE has tapped C-Life Apparel for an original line of beachwear. The new line of Ben 10 items will be available as soon as this coming spring season, which will be available at mid-tier retailers in time for fans of the television animation to hit the beach. C-Life is part of the C-Life Group, an apparel specialist that enjoys a broad network of retailer accounts.

Wembley Stadium appoints CPS Licensing Partner
The UK’s Wembley Stadium has chosen Copyright Promotions Sport (CPS) as its licensing partner, responsible for developing the Wembley Stadium brand through commercial partnerships.

CPS will work with Wembley to develop a range of products that reflect the history, heritage, and excitement of Wembley Stadium. Says Chris Protheroe, managing director of CPS: “We see Wembley fitting into the retail landscape alongside other iconic British brands, such as Oxford and Cambridge Universities, London Transport, and even the National Trust.”

The home of English football since 1923, Wembley Stadium hosts some of the biggest events in the sports and entertainment calendar including the FA Cup Final, all senior England home games, The Carling Cup Final, and the Rugby Football League Challenge Cup Final.

Borders Opens New Concept Store
After more than 18 months of development and testing, Borders unveiled the first of 14 planned concept stores on Feb. 22 at its new store in Ann Arbor, Mich., the company's hometown.

"This is a completely new shopping experience that sets Borders apart from every other store," says Borders Group CEO George Jones. "We've brought a fresh new look and an exciting interactive dimension to the store with a Digital Center where customers can do everything from mix and make their own custom CDs, download books and music, publish their own books, explore their family history, and create photo books—all without being computer experts because we have trained people there to help every step of the way."

The concept store also puts a strong focus on popular categories—including Travel, Cooking, Wellness, Graphic Novels, and Children's—by incorporating digital options and the online world. "Overall, this new concept store is a key part of our long-term strategic plan,” says Jones. “We set out to differentiate Borders and give customers a reason to choose us over other retailers and we've achieved that goal spectacularly with this new concept store. And, once we've launched the new Borders.com, we'll be able to truly deliver on our cross-channel retail strategy including the option for customers to access the site in our stores to view wish lists and conveniently order from millions of titles for delivery to their homes within two days. I'm proud of what we've created and am confident that customers will really embrace it."

Selfridges Takes a Walk Down Sesame Street
A collection of high-end Sesame Street boys’ apparel was launched exclusively at Selfridges & Co., London’s luxury department store, this past weekend. To mark the occasion, visitors to the store were treated to a special appearance from Elmo himself.

The collection includes T-shirts and hooded tops from Fabric Flavours, specialists in high-end kids fashion apparel. Perennial Sesame Street favorites Elmo, Bert & Ernie, the Cookie Monster, and The Count will adorn the collection in a range of embroidered and embellished designs that come in four sizes: 12-18 months, 2- to 3-, 4- to 5-, and 6- to 7-year-olds. The T-shirts are made from the finest cotton slub fabric and enzyme washed for softness while the hoodies are made in the softest fleece.

Brokered by Copyright Promotions Licensing Group, UK representatives of Sesame Street, the deal reflects the work of Sesame Workshop, a not-for-profit, educational organization. All proceeds from Sesame Street products go back into Sesame Street and its many projects to help children around the world.

Numberjacks Secures Publishing Deal with Egmont UK
Granada Ventures and Open Mind Productions have penned a publishing deal with Egmont that includes the UK launch of Numberjacks books in 2008 and a monthly Numberjacks magazine title.

Egmont UK will be the official publisher of Numberjacks for the UK, Eire, and English Language Commonwealth territories, and the publishing program will kick off in the summer with the monthly magazine title aimed at a core age group of 3- to 6-year-olds. Each issue will include a cover-mounted gift, songs, puzzles, board games, and cut-out-and-make activities, all designed to deliver instant appeal for Numberjacks fans UK-wide.

The initial range of books will launch in August, with further titles released throughout 2009. The Numberjacks range will feature all traditional book formats, including storybooks, activity books and novelty books, together with a Numberjacks annual.

Wesco Showcases Licensed Computer Gadgets
UK-based licensed gift company Wesco has launched new USB lines within the existing Doctor Who and The Simpsons ranges, while an entirely new collection of Star Wars USB lines are also launched.

An USB-powered Tardis micro can cooler adds to the popular Doctor Who range, while the existing Simpsons USB powered range expands to include Duff Can micro cooler and a talking desk bouncer/guard.

Star Wars enters the catalogue for the first time with a wide range of innovative USB products, including an R2D2 USB Hub; a USB-powered light sabre glow lamp; a USB-powered webcam (Darth Vader’s ship); USB-powered monitor lights; and a USB-powered micro can cooler (R2D2).

Magi-Nation Expands With Online RPG, DVD Releases
Cookie Jar Entertainment enters a new phase of its multiplatform property, Magi-Nation, with the start of open beta testing for its online role-playing game, Magi-Nation: Battle for the Moonlands. A trading-card game, the first in a line of consumer products integrated into the brand, will be released later this year. Cookie Jar also has signed a home video deal with NCircle Entertainment to license and distribute “Magi-Nation,” which currently airs on Kids’ WB! on The CW and CBC.

Fans of the “Magi-Nation” animated series can immerse themselves further into the world through Battle for the Moonlands, Cookie Jar’s free-to-play/micro-payment online RPG. Through a partnership with PayByCash’s prepaid Ultimate Game Card, gamers can purchase prepaid game cards through payment methods that do not require the use of credit card. Magi-Nation: Battle for the Moonlands is free to play and can be accessed and enjoyed by all with absolutely no cost; however, prepaid game cards can be purchased to enhance the gaming experience.

In addition to the online RPG and the consumer product line, Cookie Jar has signed an all-rights licensing agreement with Tele München’s Licensing and Merchandising arm, CTM, which will serve as Magi-Nation’s exclusive agent in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Benelux.

Jetix Ties In With Oxbow
Jetix Europe has linked up with boardsports fashion supplier Oxbow in a deal that will see Jetix working with the brand on the Oxbow Kid’s Week Winter Tour 2008, a special event dedicated to kids in extreme winter sports. Jetix will partner with Oxbow Kid’s Week in France, Germany and Sweden.

As part of the deal, Jetix will have a branded arch at the finishing line of each Oxbow course, logos on the winners’ podium and brand exposure on all Oxbow Kid’s Week material. Participating Jetix channels will also develop microsites and organize an online competition that will enable kids to win Oxbow ski clothes. On-air promos will also be produced in order to promote the partnership and encourage kids to enter the competition.

The Oxbow Kid’s Week Winter Tour is dedicated to kids under 16 and aims to discover the best extreme winter sports kid from each ski resort they stop at.

Entertainment Rights Signs Up 3DBA
Entertainment Rights has appointed 3DBA its sales partner across the portfolio for the delivery of key brands into themed attractions.

The focus of the long-term partnership is to position ER properties as permanent fixtures in theme parks and outdoor leisure attractions worldwide. ER will work with 3DBA to develop and supply multiple format attractions including interactive water rides, dark rides, and 4D multi-sensory cinema experiences. The strategy will focus on both singular installations and larger themed areas, and retail opportunities.

The first attraction in development—George of the Jungle Splash Battle, an interactive family water ride—was showcased last month at the Euro Amusement Show in Nice. Designs and plans for further attractions in development will be featured at the upcoming Dubai Entertainment & Leisure show, IAAPA Asian Expo in Macau, and IAAPA Orlando later in the year.

‘Chop Socky Chooks’ Flaps Onto Cartoon Network U.S., Germany
Decode Enterprises, the distribution subsidiary of Decode Entertainment’s parent company DHX Media, signed a deal with Cartoon Network Germany acquiring all TV rights to “Chop Socky Chooks,” a Decode Entertainment co-production with Aardman Animations that utilizes a combination of CGI and 2D design. The series will also begin to air in the United States on Cartoon Network on March 7.

Currently in production for Cartoon Network (Worldwide) and Teletoon, “Chop Socky Chooks” is Decode and Aardman’s second co-production following “Planet Sketch,” which has sold to broadcasters worldwide. The “Chop Socky Chooks” multi-territory agreement with Cartoon Network was concluded by Aardman and the commission from Teletoon was arranged by Decode Entertainment.

“Chop Socky Chooks” is created and directed by Sergio Delfino and produced by Aardman Animations.

Sticks Shows Its Moxie
Des Moines, Iowa-based Sticks, Inc. awarded worldwide licensing representation rights to agency Moxie & Company of Westport, Conn. Among the key categories Moxie will pursue for the home-geared Sticks licensing program are tabletop, gifts, domestics and textiles, cookware, kitchen gear, home accents, fine paper goods, social expressions, and publishing.

The licensing strategy calls for Sticks branded product, designed to complement and coordinate with the core Sticks furniture collection, to begin rollout in 2009.

Meredith Offers Child in India, Parents in Greece
Meredith Corporation announced multiyear licensing agreements to publish Child magazine in India and Parents in Greece. With these new agreements, Meredith's international reach will extend to 20 properties in nine countries.

Child India will be published monthly by Media Transasia India Ltd., which launched Better Homes and Gardens in India under license from Meredith in 2007. Parents Greece will be published monthly by Daily Press Magazines S.A., an affiliate of the Daily Press Group.

Under terms of the licensing agreement with Media Transasia, an English-language version of Child magazine is expected to launch in India by summer 2008. The magazine's full name will be Child India, a Parents publication. It will leverage the editorial platforms of Meredith's extensive parents brands, including Child, Family Circle, American Baby, and Parents.

Pucca, Gusanito Coming to North America
Access Licensing Group was appointed master licensee in North America for two new brands, Pucca and Gusanito.

ALG will introduce the Pucca brand to the U.S. and Canadian markets. Pucca is the new licensing phenomenon for teens and juniors and already a successful franchise in Asia, Europe, and Latin America. The much anticipated introduction of the brand in North America is expected to start in Fall 2008.

In addition, ALG will also partner with Gusanito.com to support the U.S. launch of this popular expression Web site for tweens. Originally created in Mexico, Gusanito has rapidly expanded across Latin America. The Web site boasts a series of flash animated cards featuring the lovable Cowco and his group of friends. ALG will develop a licensing program including apparel, stationery, gift and novelty, among others.

OmniPeace Seeks to Expand Brand—and Raise Awareness—Through Licensing
Mary Fanaro’s OmniPeace announced seven new licensing partners set to manufacture products for a nationwide expansion of the OmniPeace brand in the United States, with the goal to reach a full range of consumers. OmniPeace, founded by Mary Fanaro in 2005 to address extreme poverty via the distribution and sale of branded consumer products donates 25 percent of all profits to Millennium Promise. Its mission is to raise awareness of extreme poverty in sub-Saharan Africa and galvanize support for Millennium Promise, the nonprofit organization founded by economist and global anti-poverty crusader Dr. Jeffrey Sachs.

The wide range of OmniPeace licensed products are set to extend from high-end boutiques such as Kitson, Scoop, Lounge, and Fred Segal to specialty and mid-tier distribution channels like Sears, Kohl’s, Fred Meyer, and Delia’s. This will complement the efforts of the initial strategy, which was to launch the brand in high-end boutiques to establish credibility with the use of fine fabrics and design, then expand from there. Growing from a T-shirt line, OmniPeace now has evolved to a full-scale merchandising program that includes apparel, headwear, tote bags, jewelry, novelties, and chocolate.

Among the new licensees:

Royal Velvet to Launch Exclusive Line at Bed Bath & Beyond
Iconix Brand Group Inc. announced that its recently acquired home brand, Royal Velvet, will launch an exclusive product line for Bed Bath & Beyond this spring. The exclusive product line will capitalize on Royal Velvet’s leadership position as a color authority and include towels, rugs, sheets, shower curtains, and basic bedding. Li & Fung is the lead licensee for Royal Velvet and will develop and manufacture the product. Mowhawk Industries is the licensee for Royal Velvet bath rugs.

In addition, Iconix announced it has entered into a license agreement with Sears Holdings for its Cannon brand. Home products featuring the Cannon brand are expected to be offered at both Sears and Kmart retail stores.

According to Neil Cole, CEO, Iconix, “When we acquired Cannon, our key objective was to solidify a larger distribution for the brand, which we are confident that Sears and Kmart will provide. We are pleased to hear of Sears Holdings’ plans to have Sears and Kmart roll out the Cannon brand in their stores.”

“Storm Hawks” Expands Licensing Program With Apparel and More
Nerd Corps Entertainment's original series “Storm Hawks,” already licensed as an action figure line to Spin Master Ltd., will soon expand its presence at retail stores in the form of trading cards, toys, apparel, bedding, and footwear.

The 3-D action/comedy series is currently airing on Cartoon Network five days a week during the network's afternoon programming block.

Coming up for 2009, collectible gaming company WizKids will unveil a brand new Storm Hawks PocketModel trading card game, allowing kids to collect and construct models of vehicles and characters from the show, integrating them into a trading card battle game.

New licensing for “Storm Hawks” includes signing on five new international licensing agents, and seven new North American licensees.

Storm Hawks’ North American agent MGM Consumer Products has locked in several new licensees for the first wave of merchandise due out in summer and fall of 2008. New deals include C-Life for apparel, Accessory Innovations for backpacks and accessories, WestPoint Home for bedding, Hybrid Promotion for t-shirts, Elegant Headwear for hats and caps, Hobbico Corporation for 3D puzzles, and Weisner Products for footwear.

Additionally, this January and February, Carl's Jr. and Hardee's restaurants across the United States featured Storm Hawks toys in more than 3 million of its Cool Kids Combos.

To further expand Storm Hawks’ reach in the United States, MGM will be calling on the expertise of strategic product licensing and merchandising agency Brandgenuity. In the Canadian market, Segal Licensing will spearhead the licensing and merchandising campaign.

Overseas, Nerd Corps Entertainment has assigned the licensing agency representation rights to RMP Licensing for France and French speaking territories; Exim Licensing will represent the brand through Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean; Haven Licensing will manage Australia and New Zealand; and Empire Multimedia will be handling Asia (excluding Japan, Korea, India and China). Nerd Corps has also secured a deal with Kidz Entertainment for all rights to the series in the Nordic Territories. Kidz will also act as licensing agent for Eastern Europe and CIS.

FUNimation Entertainment to Act as Licensing Agent for ‘One Piece’ Anime
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.

Scholastic Media’s ‘Word Girl’ Renewed for Second Season
PBS has ordered an additional 26 episodes of Scholastic Media’s educational program “Word Girl,” to be aired in 2009, and international sales for the series have already been inked.

Since its debut in September, the series is one of the top-rated programs for children 6-11 on the PBS Kids Go! programming block. Scholastic Media is extending “WordGirl”’s reach into international territories with current deals already in place for Canada, Australia, and Israel. Additional deals are pending.

The WordGirl publishing program, to be published by Scholastic, is scheduled to launch with two titles available exclusively in Scholastic Book Clubs in Fall 2008, leading up to a wider rollout starting with three books for the general market the following spring. The publishing program will serve as a precursor to a larger merchandising effort slated for 2009.

Picture Production Company Launches Commercial Arm
The Picture Production Company Group (PPC) launched commercial venture PPC Enterprises to develop and exploit in-house and third-party properties off-screen. It has appointed Mark Hurry as legal and commercial director to extend brands with merchandising, home entertainment and new media deals. Hurry joins PPC Enterprises from Granada

Gorillabox Partners With WRN to Deliver Global Mobile TV Services
Gorillabox, the managed mobile TV enabler, has partnered with international TV and radio transmission company WRN to provide a range of mobile TV services to media companies around the world.

Gorillabox’s G-Box platform, which can create, host, and deliver a mobile Internet site, will be made available to WRN’s clients around the world. These include international public service broadcasters such as Voice of America, commercial stations such as Virgin Radio, satellite operators, and community stations. Gorillabox will be able to offer clients mobile video streaming.

Cartoon Movie Picks the Best European Animation
Cartoon Movie, the industry forum organized by the European Association of Animation Film, will name the best animation distributor, director, and producer at its 10th anniversary meeting to be held in Potsdam, Germany, from March 5-7.

The Cartoon Tributes reward companies and personalities that have contributed to the development of European animation over the past year.
The short list for the three categories of the Cartoon Tributes is:

International Film Group Named Australian Licensing Agent for Sharpe Company
The Sharpe Company has appointed International Film Group (IFG) as the Australian licensing and merchandising agent for three of its key properties. The properties include “Franny’s Feet,” the animated “Naughty Naughty Pets,” and “Angry Little Girls.”

As the Australian agent, IFG will manage the licensing and merchandising programs throughout the country and explore opportunities in all key licensing categories including home video, stationery, home wears, gift, novelties, games, and apparel. “Franny’s Feet” broadcasts in Australia on the ABC, ABC2, and Nick Jr., and “Naughty Naughty Pets” also features on the ABC and ABC2. “Angry Little Girls” is currently in development as an animated series produced by and featuring the voices of creator Lela Lee and Jennifer Love Hewitt (“Ghost Whisperer,” Garfield).

CPLG to Serve as Tutti Cuti Licensing Agent in France
Licensing agent Copyright Promotions Licensing Group (CPLG) to have been appointed licensing agents for girls’ brand Tutti Cuti in France by the brand’s owner, Santoro. CPLG are developing new opportunities for the brand, in addition to overseeing the management of Santoro’s existing portfolio of Tutti Cuti licensees throughout the country.

Marina Narishkin, Managing Director of CPLG France, states, “We are delighted to work in a close relationship with Santoro to represent Tutti Cuti in the French market. CPLG is very excited to have the opportunity to work with these chic and rich design concepts, and we have a long-term commitment to their development.”

‘Jakers!’ Gains Two New European Licensing Agents
Parthenon Entertainment Group Ltd. Has appointed two new licensing agents for its international TV property, “Jakers!” The Licensing Factory (TLF) has been appointed as licensing agent for Italy and Active Merchandising has been appointed for Germany.

Since being appointed to represent “Jakers!” in Italy, The Licensing Factory has negotiated licenses with Marini Silvano for accessories, New Links for activity books, magic pens, memory cards and audio books, and Hobby & Work for DVDs, books, stickers, sticker albums and colouring books.

Active Merchandising will focus on building momentum at retail with existing Jakers! licensees.

EXECUTIVE MOVES
Michael Corcoran was appointed president, consumer products and recreation group, Paramount Pictures. Corcoran will be responsible for overseeing Paramount's worldwide licensing, consumer products and themed entertainment activities. In this newly created role, Corcoran will spearhead a broad range of licensing and merchandising programs to extend the Paramount brand and its properties across a variety of categories such as theme parks, toys, apparel, themed restaurants, and book publishing.

Jetix Europe has promoted Dan Frugtniet to the role of regional licensing manager for the Central and Eastern European (CEE) markets. In this newly created role, Frugtniet will be responsible for the licensing of the Jetix brand, programmes and character images in the CEE territories. He will be driving new deals with home entertainment publishers, FMCG market producers, clothing firms and toy producers.

Atlantyca Entertainment has launched a licensing division based on the success of its Geronimo Stilton title, and has named Elisa Pezzutti as the head of the new unit. In the role of manager of licensing and communications, Pezzutti will manage all category licensing and product development for the Geronimo Stilton brand and all of Atlantyca’s character brands and entertainment properties in Italy, and will work with partners to coordinate various licensing and merchandising initiatives worldwide.

Lori C. May is joining Concept One as director of licensing for all apparel brands, national brands, and character and entertainment brands. In addition, Byron Cohen will continue managing team sports and outdoor licenses as director of licensing for sports. This will include MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, NCAA, Nascar, BASS, ESPN U, and College Gameday brands, as well as Outdoor Brands. Cohen will also be taking on some key account management responsibilities utilizing his knowledge and relationships to help build the sports business.