4Kids, RAF to Part Ways as Brand Moves to IMG

The U.K.'s Royal Air Force is understood to be moving its licensing business to IMG U.K. after a competitive tender. 4Kids Entertainment International has held the RAF agency contract since October 2004.

At the time it was awarded, the agreement was thought to be the first partnership of its kind with the Ministry of Defense. 

4Kids rolled out a licensing program including publishing, back-to-school, apparel, collectibles and, most recently, a tri-service toy range. The licensing program has also expanded into mainland Europe where it is positioned as a fashion lifestyle brand with licensees in place for apparel, nightwear, footwear, home furnishings and back-to-school in France and apparel and watches in Italy.