Coolabi Group has announced global licensing partnerships with Rainbow Designs, Merrymakers and Tonies for Giraffes Can’t Dance.

International media group and rights owner Coolabi has today announced worldwide licensing partnerships with leading soft toy manufacturers Rainbow Designs and MerryMakers, and the UK’s fastest growing pre-school toy brand Tonies, for heritage brand Giraffes Can’t Dance.

Licensed by Coolabi Licensing, bestseller Giraffes Can’t Dance from author Giles Andreae and illustrator Guy Parker-Rees was first published in 1999. The funny, touching and triumphant picture book about a giraffe who finds his own tune and confidence has been delighting children for over 20 years. Published by Orchard Books, part of the Hachette Children’s Group, the classic picture book has been translated into 36 languages, selling over 10m copies worldwide.

Allison Watkins, director of Consumer Products and TV Distribution, Coolabi Group said: “Giraffes Can’t Dance is such an iconic book and holds such a special place in the hearts of families around the world. I am delighted to be working with such wonderful partners to bring Gerald into homes across a range of products.”

Rainbow Designs will launch its exclusive Giraffes Can’t Dance plush collection into the UK market in autumn/winter 2023, distributing to the rest of the world outside the US/Canada through the year. The newest addition to the Rainbow Designs’ Bedtime Cuddles and Stories programme joins its family of heart-felt children’s storybook characters.

Anthony Temple, managing director, Rainbow Designs, commented: “Giraffes Can’t Dance is an exciting and natural new addition to our Bedtime Cuddles and Stories programme. At Rainbow, bringing the story to life, and giving the child a tangible, soft and cuddly version of their much-loved storybook friend, is what we do best. Storytime, whether it is part of a day time or bedtime routine, provides a special parent/grandparent and child moment, supporting the love of stories, creating valuable bonding time and encouraging that all important cuddle.”

MerryMakers has launched its Giraffes Can’t Dance plush range across the US and Canada, both online and in-store with leading retailers Barnes & Noble and Amazon, and across independent retailers and bookstores.

Clair Frederick, president, MerryMakers added: “MerryMakers has been keen on offering a Gerald soft toy for many years, and is absolutely thrilled to finally team with Coolabi on the consumer products program.”

Tonies has launched a Giraffes Can’t Dance Tonie both online and in-store globally. Children are invited to dance along with Gerald as this bestselling classic is brought to life.

“Narrated by the wonderful Hugh Laurie, this touching tale teaches children the importance of embracing your uniqueness and not being afraid to stand out from the crowd…a valuable lesson for young and old alike,” said Liz Peters, head of Portfolio, Tonies. “I am sure the Giraffes Can’t Dance Tonie will quickly become a firm favourite with our little listeners.”