Garfield Adds International Deals

Garfield continues to add to his licensing empire with new representation in Japan as well as new direct-to-retail deals and promotions in a host of other countries across the globe.

Tohokushinsha Film Corporation will represent the classic cat character in Japan, while the brand has also added a host of direct-to-retail operations in a range of European and Asian countries. New DTR deals include Original Marines (Italy) and Undiz (France), C&A (Brazil), and Rei do Mate (Brazil) will take place in 2015, and programs continue at Adlib stores (Singapore), Archies (India), Lalabobo (China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan), and FUN Stores (China).

A host of promotions are also planned in France, Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg, Indonesia, China and the U.S.

In the U.S. the primetime special “Garfield’s Halloween Adventure” will mark its 30-year anniversary with special collectible product on Garfieldcollectibles.com, CafePress.com and Zazzle.com.

Additionally, “Garfield: A Musical with Cattitude” will make its grand entrance at the Adventure Theatre in Washington, D.C., on June 19. The play was written by Garfield creator Jim Davis and Michael Bobbitt and features original music penned by various artists. Garfield is also stopping by the Kennywood and Silverwood amusement parks, both in appearances and in-ride features.

In other news, Great American Opportunities has selected Garfield as its collectible character for the 2015-16 school year. The exclusive license allows Great American to depict the famous cat in figurines themed around historical, sports and music legends as a school fundraising device.

Additionally, Ovation Brands (Old Country Buffet, Country Buffet, Ryan’s and Home Town Buffet) will wrap-up their Family Night promotion on June 30.

“The Garfield licensing program is flourishing thanks to new opportunities in Latin America, China and India,” says Jim Davis, Garfield creator and president, Paws, Inc. the company that manages the brand. “We are focused on growing the program in the United States and Japan, as well, and are constantly exploring new ways to engage and entertain Garfield’s fans.”