The Licensing Shop has hired Alexandra Ries to support the retail strategy and development of the burgeoning Shopkins licensing program in the U.S. and Canada.

Based in Dallas, Texas, Ries will work with Shopkins licensees and retailers to develop and coordinate exclusive multi-category merchandise programs.

Most recently, Ries was the vice president of sales for North America at PBS Distribution, managing sales, retail development and product development for PBS brands including "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood," "Caillou" and "Downton Abbey," as well as many other properties for home entertainment.

Prior to PBS, Ries was a founding member of NCircle Entertainment, where she ultimately led as vice president of sales and business development. She developed retail brand launch strategies for new brands "The Octonauts" (Disney Jr.), Mike the Knight" (Nick Jr.) and "The Gruffalo," as well as re-launch plans for mature brands including "The Wiggles" and "The Super Mario Bros."