Sanrio and Marks & Spencer launch extensive Mr Men & Little Miss clothing, accessories and bedding range

Sanrio has launched a new collaborative collection of clothing, accessories, and bedding with Marks & Spencer for its iconic Mr Men and Little Miss brand with a range featuring an ensemble cast of Roger Hargreave’s best-loved characters.

The launch arrives as part of the ongoing celebrations of Mr Men and Little Miss’ 50th anniversary and has been designed to evoke nostalgia with parents and inspire imagination in children alike.

Launched on February 4th, the collection feature favourites such as Mr Happy, Little Miss Sunshine and more. With a wide choice of exclusive designs, the range includes daywear, sleepwear, accessories and bedding.

Featuring practical rompers for newborns, joggers and jeans for everyday comfort, printed hoodies, cosy pyjama sets and fun accessories, the collection boasts that ‘there’s something for every kid.’

Favourites from the new range include the Mr Happy ‘Smile Often’ Sweatshirt, Mr Strong ‘Strong and Fearless’ top, and the Mr Men ‘Better Together’ Pyjama Set.

Poetic Brands grows its pre-school portfolio with Moonbug’s My Magic Pet Morphle

Poetic Brands is continuing to expand its baby, children’s wear, and accessories division, this time through an extended partnership with Moonbug Entertainment to develop an apparel range based on the My Magic Pet Morphle brand.

The deal was brokered by The Point. 1888 who manages the rights for Moonbug’s properties across EMEA and will see the apparel specialist create a collection of accessories, children’s clothes, outerwear, and swimwear.

Morphle is Mila’s magic red pet, who can morph into anything – a sweet puppy, a giant truck, a cool dinosaur or anything that Mila’s playful mind can imagine. With over 250 episodes in its library and content in 12 languages, the show teaches preschoolers the themes of friendship, problem solving and creativity, and is available on a range of digital platforms including YouTube, Amazon, Netflix, Apple TV, and most recently, was part of a deal to be shown on Virgin Media platforms.

The consumer products programme for the imaginative and playful kids’ brand, managed by The Point.1888 has also begun with a deal with Thinkway Toys as Master Toy partner. 

Anne Bradford, director, Poetic Brands, said: “My Magic Pet Morphle offers fantastic animation based around a magic pet store, which will enable us to create some interactive and fun products. It completes a strong portfolio of properties for this area of the retail market.”

Becky Langer, senior commercial manager, soft goods at The Point.1888, added: “We are thrilled to partner with Poetic Brands on this exciting range for My Magic Pet Morphle fans. We believe that their design, manufacturing and speed to market capabilities will ensure that fantastic products come to market in 2021, quenching the pent-up consumer demand for this phenomenal growing brand.” 

Erve Europe teams with Psyonix to launch Rocket League apparel collection

Erve Europe has partnered with the video game developer, Psyonix to create an extensive collection of Rocket League apparel in a deal brokered by the licensing agency, IMG.

The new Rocket League-branded line will include t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, jackets, nightwear, socks, accessories, and more. It will all feature designs inspired by the game’s most loved cars and arcade style football concept.

Tom Fabes, Erve Europe’s gaming license manager, commented: “We are very happy to be working with Rocket League. The game has been on our radar for a long time now. Reaction from retail has been very positive for the brand and we are looking forward to delivering products to consumers very soon.

“Rocket League is an awesome game with a broad fanbase, that deserves a broad distribution. And that’s exactly what we aim for.”

Launching in summer 2021, the collection will be available for purchase across Europe.

Rocket League is a high-powered hybrid of arcade-style soccer and vehicular mayhem that has become one of the most recognisable video game brands across the globe. 

British headwear firm Tokyo Time signs collaboration deal with Misfits Gaming

Misfits Gaming Group has signed a multi-year deal with the British premium headwear brand, Tokyo Time, to become the official headwear provider of Misfits Gaming. Under the partnership, Tokyo Time will produce licensed Misfits Gaming headwear, as well as collaborate on co-branded items.

A creator of Japanese-inspired headwear, Tokyo Time launched digitally in 2018 and has continued to expand its reach through traditional sports partnerships, including with the British Basketball League, 24h Le Mans, and Prema. The latest partnership will be the company’s first collaboration on the esports industry.

“We’re excited to partner with an exciting new brand to create new products for our fans and players,” said Vas Roberts, VP, partnerships at Misfits Gaming Group. “Tokyo Time have partnered with exciting traditional sports leagues and we’re proud to be their first partner in esports.”

Paul Davison, CEO of Tokyo Time, added: “Tokyo Time is absolutely thrilled to partner up with exciting Esports team Misfits Gaming. We are looking forward to producing some exciting collaborations that will excite fans over the next few years.”

JoJo Maman Bebe launches fourth Elmer clothing collection in Andersen Press partnership

JoJo Maman Bebe has launched its fourth Elmer clothing collection, a range of hoodies, joggers, sleepsuits, and cardigans all featuring new styles and graphic specially created by the retailer’s design team.

The launch has been supported by digital marketing and social media campaigns from the retailer and Elmer publisher, Andersen Press. Shoppers who buy two or more items will receive a complimentary copy of Elmer’s Little Library.

The deal is managed by the UK licensing agent, Metrostar.

Sarah Liversidge, childrenswear buyer, said: “We are so excited at JoJo to have our favourite elephant, Elmer, return for our fourth “JoJo Loves Elmer” collection.

“The fresh design direction is bolder and more playful than ever whilst reflecting Elmer’s joy, colourfulness and diversity, all combined with our practical styles, great quality and JoJo sense of humour. We have really enjoyed collaborating with Andersen Press and Metrostar once again and hope our customers will enjoy the complimentary Elmer’s Little Library gifted by Andersen Press.”

Paul Black, brand director at Andersen Press, added: “Elmer has really found a brilliant home with JoJo Maman Bebe, and this new range shows him off in all his multi-colour glory.

“We’re delighted to work with the team to offer a free Elmer’s Little Library for online customers, and hope it brings many fans new and old to this new range.”

Claire Potter, managing director at Metrostar, concluded: “This DTR was one of our first signings for Elmer back in 2017 and it’s wonderful to see the partnership going strong. The design team at JoJo really embrace Elmer’s aesthetic; creating garments which are original yet very obviously Elmer.

“Their ability to develop fresh treatments is undoubtedly a key reason that consumers keep coming back for more.”

Moonbug Entertainment signs Poetic Brands for Blippi apparel range

Moonbug Entertainment has signed Poetic Brands to design an apparel range based on the kids’ entertainment sensation, Blippi. The move arrives as digital entertainment brands continue to gather momentum in the licensing space.

Blippi has connected with children globally through his show Blippi, where he takes them on fun play-dates, learning through playing and doing. Blippi is available in the UK on Virgin Media, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube. 

The children’s apparel range from Poetic Brands is set to include accessories, children’s daywear, outerwear and swimwear.            

The aim of Blippi is to inspire and explore children’s curiosity with fun and educational activities. The playful character takes children on adventures in each 15-minute episode, presenting viewers with a range of subjects and facts. 

Additionally, the wider consumer products programme for Blippi, managed throughout EMEA by brand licensing specialist The Point.1888, has begun with a toy range from Jazwares, featuring talking dolls, vehicles, role-play and outdoor toys. The property also features a monthly magazine from DJ Murphy.

Anne Bradford, Director, Poetic Brands, said: “Blippi is already an established kids’ phenomenon with over 15 billion views worldwide. There is no doubt that children are more than ready for Blippi to launch an apparel line and we are looking forward to discussing opportunities across retail.” 

Becky Langer, senior commercial manager, soft goods at The Point.1888, added: “What better way for a child to express their adoration for a brand than to wear clothing emblazoned with its characters? Apparel was one of our priorities when devising Blippi’s brand licensing programme, and with Poetic Brands being an advocate of the use of sustainable fabrics, it was our first choice.”

Moonbug Entertainment signs Poetic Brands for Blippi apparel range

Moonbug Entertainment has signed Poetic Brands to design an apparel range based on the kids’ entertainment sensation, Blippi. The move arrives as digital entertainment brands continue to gather momentum in the licensing space.

Blippi has connected with children globally through his show Blippi, where he takes them on fun play-dates, learning through playing and doing. Blippi is available in the UK on Virgin Media, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube. 

The children’s apparel range from Poetic Brands is set to include accessories, children’s daywear, outerwear and swimwear.            

The aim of Blippi is to inspire and explore children’s curiosity with fun and educational activities. The playful character takes children on adventures in each 15-minute episode, presenting viewers with a range of subjects and facts. 

Additionally, the wider consumer products programme for Blippi, managed throughout EMEA by brand licensing specialist The Point.1888, has begun with a toy range from Jazwares, featuring talking dolls, vehicles, role-play and outdoor toys. The property also features a monthly magazine from DJ Murphy.

Anne Bradford, Director, Poetic Brands, said: “Blippi is already an established kids’ phenomenon with over 15 billion views worldwide. There is no doubt that children are more than ready for Blippi to launch an apparel line and we are looking forward to discussing opportunities across retail.” 

Becky Langer, senior commercial manager, soft goods at The Point.1888, added: “What better way for a child to express their adoration for a brand than to wear clothing emblazoned with its characters? Apparel was one of our priorities when devising Blippi’s brand licensing programme, and with Poetic Brands being an advocate of the use of sustainable fabrics, it was our first choice.”

Kodak snaps up Rocket Licensing for UK, Eire, and European licensing programme

The iconic Kodak brand has snapped up Rocket Licensing as its licensing agency for the UK and Eire as well as Europe, as the firm begins to build a consumer products programme across the regions.

In its role – marking a new step for Rocket, an expert in character, entertainment, and publishing licensing – who will focus the campaign on a range of categories including apparel, accessories, stationery (including arts and crafts), publishing, games and puzzles, and collaborations.

The team will target a primarily adult and millennial audience and is looking to place product principally in fashion and mid-tier retail.

Kodak is a 130 year-old company, which is known worldwide by its instantly recognisable red and yellow logo, which has evolved over the years. The company offers an extensive library of classic and modern logos, branding and advertising, which is ideal for developing into exciting, impactful and desirable licensed collections.

To date, Kodak has created far reaching collaborations with A list celebrities, Lulu Guinness and Cara Delavigne, leading designer, Lama Jouni, and key retailer, Forever 21, among others. Rocket will be building on these solid foundations with best in class partners to create on-trend, appealing consumer products and campaigns.

Rob Wijeratna, joint MD, Rocket Licensing, said: “We’re really looking forward to the opportunity to build the Kodak brand in the UK and extend it throughout Europe. Kodak is an iconic brand, known worldwide and offers a wealth of fantastic creative assets to build exciting new collections.”

Clara Fort, Kodak VP global brand licensing, added: “Collaborating with an award-winning partner like Rocket Licensing is an important opportunity for Kodak. The combined strengths of the iconic Kodak brand and Rocket’s creativity and experience will help us bring exciting products and collections to consumers across the UK and Europe.”

Peanuts Worldwide teams with PUMA for footwear, apparel, and accessories

Peanuts Worldwide is teaming with the sports company PUMA for the launch of a new line of footwear, apparel, and accessories aimed at kids and adults, all featuring the classic characters from creator Charles M. Schulz.

In a deal that has been brokered by WildBrain CPLG’s German team, the PUMA x  Peanuts adult offering will witness the launch of classic PUMA styles adorned with members of the Peanuts gang, including Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and Woodstock in basketball inspired scenes.

The clothing will bring a collection of tees, hoodies, and sweatpants for both men and women. The footwear includes the Future Rider and classic basketball style, the Ralph Sampson. Rounding out the adult items in the range are beanies and a backpack.

Meanwhile, the kids’ Peanuts collection encompasses visuals of the characters playing sports including baseball, football and more. In a variety of items for girls and boys, the collection features hats, backpacks, and classic T7 track suits. Key PUMA footwear styles including the Mirage Mox and Ralph Sampson will also be available in junior, preschool, and infant sizing.

Tara Botwick, senior director, territory management EMEA for Peanuts Worldwide, said: “The PUMA x Peanuts collaboration brings together two iconic and internationally loved brands. We’re confident both kids and adults will love the sportswear and accessories that mix PUMA’s distinctive styles with eye-catching Peanuts art in a line full of character, imagination and nostalgia.”

The PUMA x Peanuts collection is now available at PUMA.com and at PUMA stores and select retailers.

Australia’s Blinky Bill lands first clothing collection with BIG W

The popular Australian animated character, Blinky Bill has partnered with Caprice Australia and Cotton Australia for the launch of an extensive summer range of clothing for infants, kids, and adults with BIG W.

Now available in-store and online, the branded range includes sleepwear for both infants and kids as well as a selection of outerwear pieces for boys and girls including t-shirts, shorts and skirts. The first range for BIG W also includes a Blinky Bill t-shirt for mum and one for dad that both match pieces in the kids outerwear range.

The deal was brokered by Blinky Bill’s licensing agency, Merchantwise Licensing and the range was designed and developed by Caprice Australia for BIG W.

Made from Australian cotton and grown by farmers who care for the natural environment and produce the world’s strongest, cleanest cotton fibres.  Soft to touch, this natural Australian cotton is gentle on skin and the environment.

“As one of Australia’s most-loved local brands, Blinky Bill continues to be popular with the young and old, mums and dads and of course, kids. This partnership with Cotton Australia is absolutely perfect for the Blinky Bill brand – Blinky Bill is synonymous with the Australian bush and the use of Australian cotton in these products goes to ensuring the support of Australian farmers in regional areas across the country,” said Merchantwise Licensing general manager, Kerryn McCormack.

“We are sure it is going to be an incredible retail success.”

Barbara Stephen, CEO of Flying Bark Productions, added: “Blinky Bill has been a much-treasured part of Flying Bark Productions’ history since 1992 when the iconic Blinky Bill feature film, Blinky Bill: The Mischievous Koala was produced by Yoram and Sandra Gross.

“The world’s favourite koala has gone from strength to strength since then with the 2015 feature film, Blinky Bill the Movie and the 2016 television series, The Wild Adventures of Blinky Bill being produced by Flying Bark Productions.  It goes without saying that we are absolutely thrilled to see Blinky Bill in the spotlight again with this first ever BIG W range for infants, kids, mums and dads.

“Blinky Bill continues to be as popular as ever with parents and kids alike so we are certain the matching pieces for mum, dad and kids will be mini-me must-haves.  Not only is the range incredibly cute but it is has been created in partnership with Cotton Australia – meaning each piece has been made from Australian cotton and goes to supporting Australian cotton farmers.”