Tag Archives: news

Simon Philips joins board of Falcon’s Beyond

Posted on by

Simon Philips, one of the licensing industry’s most accomplished executives, has joined the board of Falcon’s Beyond Global.

He will use his unparalleled expertise will help drive the unique entertainment and consumer product synergies at the vertically-integrated experiential entertainment powerhouse – now deploying its 360° IP Expander model around the globe.

Philips has previously served as president of Marvel Entertainment International, where he was a member of the leadership team that helped build Marvel into a retail powerhouse and paved the way for its sale to Disney. He later became Executive Vice-President & General Manager, The Walt Disney Company, Europe, the Middle East & Africa, where his strategic approach to bringing to life iconic brands from across the Disney, Star Wars, Pixar, and Marvel portfolio through licensing generated over $16 billion in annual sales.

Philips currently serves as Managing Director, Global Consumer Products, at Moonbug Entertainment, the company behind digital-first properties CoComelon and Blippi, and many others.

“Falcon’s Beyond is playing in an unlimited sandbox,” says Philips. “We have the IPs and we can create, distribute and optimise content across many platforms simultaneously. As we develop multiple touchpoints, we can rapidly grow a very successful consumer products programme. Then we have the unmatched opportunity to take all of that into immersive theme park spaces around the globe — at unprecedented speed.

“This transmedia superpower sets Falcon’s Beyond apart from its competition. No one else can do what Falcon’s Beyond can. It’s disruptive, it’s progressive. Falcon’s represents the future of engagement in IP.”

Cecil Magpuri, CEO of Falcon’s Beyond, says: “Having Simon Philips join the team is an undeniable testament to our vision. Falcon’s goes way back with Simon, starting with major Marvel projects in Korea and Dubai, and he understands that great storytelling is at the heart of everything we do. Simon brings over 30 years of incomparable experience and insight to the game. Again and again, he has proven his ability to see the future of global entertainment. Incredible things are on the horizon.”

Philips joins the board on the heels of Falcon’s most recent announcements of forthcoming projects in the entertainment and hospitality sectors. In September 2021, Falcon’s announced Curiosity Playground, a new experiential edutainment venue that will bring to life multiple iconic properties, such as Dinosaur Train, SuperWHY!, Odd Squad and Wild Kratts.

In December 2021, Falcon’s and global hotel company Meliá Hotels International announced plans to develop a world-class theme park and premier entertainment, dining, and retail destination in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Falcon’s Beyond Global brings its own proprietary and partner IPs to global markets through owned and operated theme parks, resorts, attractions, patented technologies, feature films, episodic series, consumer products, licensing, and beyond. The company has won numerous design awards and provided design services in 39 countries around the world.

www.falconsbeyondglobal.com

Kartoon Channel! Worldwide expands global reach

Posted on by

Leveraging its strategic investment in Germany’s Your Family Entertainment (YFE) to expand the Kartoon Channel! global footprint, Genius Brands International has announced the launch of the new Kartoon Channel! Worldwide programming block, “Kartoon Genius,” across Latin America and the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region, reaching 67 countries.

This week, the Kartoon Genius two-hour, Monday – Friday programming block premieres across the MENA region on the pan-regional linear Pay TV channel, fully dubbed in Arabic and English. On March 7, the programming block debuted throughout Central & South America on 24/7 linear, offering content in Spanish and English.

The Kartoon Genius programming blocks offer first-run original content on these platforms and aims to deliver positive entertainment for children and families, underscored by safety and enrichment. Series on the programming block line-up include Stan Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten, Llama Llama, Rainbow Rangers, Warren Buffett’s Secret Millionaires Club, Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab, and more.

Managing Director of Kartoon Channel! Worldwide, Paul Robinson, says: “Positive and uplifting children’s entertainment is more in demand today than ever. Since announcing our commitment to launch the Kartoon Channel! internationally less than three months ago, we are off to a fantastic start with pan-regional launches within the next two weeks across The Middle East, North Africa, Central America and South America on the programme platforms through Genius Brands’ investment in YFE.

“The growth of the Kartoon Channel! over the past two years in the U.S., headed by Jon Ollwerther, has been tremendous.  Despite the global challenges, children’s entertainment is timeless and enduring. We are extremely excited about the many opportunities we have to bring the channel to the rest of the world and to build it into the preeminent entertainment destination for kids.”

Brandgenuity to rep Too Hot to Handle in US and Canada

Posted on by

UK-based licensing agency Brands with Influence has tapped Brandgenuity to serve as the exclusive licensing agency in the US and Canada for blockbuster reality dating show, Too Hot to Handle.   

Brandgenuity will build a robust lifestyle licensing programme for Netflix’s steamiest show. Now in its third season, Too Hot to Handle, produced by Fremantle labels Thames and Talkback, follows serially single contestants on a tropical getaway. The catch? A total sex ban. If they can keep to it, virtual assistant “Lana” is ready to issue rewards and big prize money.

Brands with Influence chose Brandgenuity for the agency’s strategic approach and entertainment experience. “Their team had seen the show and like the rest of us, are addicted. We loved that,” says Martin Lowde, Managing Director of Brands with Influence. “But we also knew that they will be able to help us get to market quickly and in a totally brand-aligned way.”

With season three a Top 3 show in the US (Top 10 in 64 countries) and with more than 20 million followers across its contestants’ social platforms, Too Hot to Handle is arguably the buzziest reality series around. Season three dropped in January 2022 and instantly rocketed again to the streamer’s hot list, racking up over 72 million hours viewed globally.

“We love everything about this show and we know it’s going to be in high demand by licensees, since it’s so top-of-mind for Gen Z viewers,” says said Allison Lort, Vice President, Business Development at Brandgenuity. “Brandgenuity will seek partners in categories including swim and resortwear, beauty, beach gear, accessories and branded collaborations. The agency is confident they can leverage the spicy look and feel and carefree attitude of the show and its memorable content.”

For licensing opportunities, contact info@brandgenuity.com

 

The Point.1888 lands new sub-agents and deals for Jimboart

Posted on by

Art brand Jimbobart has been growing rapidly since it started its brand licensing journey with The Point.1888, with new projects in the pipeline for 2022.

Established in 2009 by illustrator James Ward, the brand focuses on eccentric and fun animal illustrations, each with human traits.

Jimboart enjoyed a record high number of orders for Christmas via Wolf & Badger and other B2C platforms. However, this year is shaping up to be an even bigger year for the brand. Jimboart kicked off 2022 by exhibiting at Top Drawer, showcasing its British Wildlife Collection (with a percentage of all sales being donated to the Sussex Wildlife Trust). There is an art exhibition in the works, and the brand is being stocked at many new retailers including Fenwick.

The buzz around Jimboart aligns with some new developments in the licensing programme. The Point.1888, master-agent of Jimbobart, has signed two new sub-agents – The Licensing Locomotive for Iberia, and Moxie for the US – to help grow the brand internationally.

This comes on the back of two new deals:

  • Tabletop, textiles and barware via Pure Tabletop to launch later this year
  • An ICanvas print deal across North America and Europe (arranged by Moxie)

Following the success of its previous ranges, Elite Tins will continue with the brand and deliver products to retail, including cake, sandwich, and biscuit tins.

Janine Richmond, Head of Brand at The Point.1888, says: “This is such an exciting time for Jimbobart and James. We’ve seen a real surge of interest thanks to the fun and quirky illustrations that bring a smile to your face whenever you see them. Bringing on two new sub-agents and new partners shows the cross-territory appeal of the brand and helps to grow the programme in an authentic and sustainable way. Bring on 22!”.

James Ward adds: “It’s great to see the momentum building up in the licensing programme with activity happening worldwide and more projects in the pipeline. I’m so happy to share my love of nature and wildlife with a growing audience, and it’s so lovely to hear stories from happy customers about their relationships with the animals and characters featured in my illustrations.”

Lady Luck Games to launch Popeye and Flash Gordon digital game content

Posted on by

King Features Syndicate, home to some of the world’s most popular entertainment characters, is partnering with Swedish slots specialist Lady Luck Games to create branded digital game content featuring iconic comic characters Popeye, Olive Oyl, Beetle Bailey and Flash Gordon.

The new games will be available for players in slots across Europe and Asia for the first time, further expanding the reach of the character brands to fans across the world within the growing online casino game category.

To bring these games to life, King Features Syndicate is working in tandem with Lady Luck’s maths specialists to merge the classic character designs and elements with unique gameplay. The first games will be showcased at ICE London in April.

“We see enormous growth potential in the online gaming category and are excited to bring these iconic characters to life with the impressive development expertise and entertaining features of Lady Luck Games,” says Carla Silva, vice president and general manager, global head of licensing, King Features.

 Mads V. Jørgensen, CEO, Lady Luck Games, adds: “We are extremely humbled and honoured that King Features Syndicate has chosen an up-and-coming studio like ours to represent its hugely popular and world-renowned brands. It shows that our strategy works and the games that we produce are some of the most beautiful and entertaining in the business. This is easily one of the most important milestones in the company’s history and will make a huge difference in our outreach to both customers and players.”

 

Time Bomb Comics partners with Anderson Entertainment for new anthology

Posted on by

Time Bomb Comics has announced a new partnership with Anderson Entertainment in a deal brokered by Larkshead Licensing. The first publication, Spectrum, will be a 44-page comic anthology featuring three cult titles from the mind of prolific creator Gerry Anderson: New Captain Scarlet, Space Precinct and Terrahawks.

Gerry Anderson’s work was a huge part of the British television landscape from the 1960s to the 1990s, and his shows remain popular with science fiction fans across the globe. The three titles included in Spectrum span the genre from alien fighting to space-based police procedural.

New Captain Scarlet was a reboot of the original 1960s show broadcast in the 1990s. Using CGI as an evolution of the original Supermarionation puppetry, the show followed the titular Captain Scarlet in his battle against the invading Mysteron aliens.

Terrahawks used an altered version of the Supermacromation style, refined with 1980s technology and incorporating latex hand-puppets. The series sees a ragtag group of humans defend Earth after the destruction of NASA.

Finally, the 1990s Space Precinct was a live action series that incorporated puppetry in creating realistic and sophisticated alien characters. A police procedural set in space, it was known for its groundbreaking special effects.

The creative teams for the new anthology are Steve Tanner (writer), Pete Woods (artist) and James Grey (letters) on New Captain Scarlet; Richmond A Clements (writer) and James Gray (art and lettering) on Space Precinct; and Dan Whitehead (writer), Ste Pickford (artist) and James Grey (lettering) on Terrahawks. The cover will be drawn by Steve Pugh, known for his work at DC, Marvel, Dark Horse and 2000AD.

Every aspect of the publication has been personally approved by Jamie Anderson, Managing Director and CCO of Anderson Entertainment, and son of Gerry Anderson. The collaboration is also perfectly timed as it coincides with Time Bomb Comics’ 15th anniversary year and marks an exciting development for the company.

Time Bomb Comics’ chief, Steve Tanner, says: “Spectrum marks the first licensed title released through Time Bomb Comics and I’m delighted it features characters and concepts that are truly warmly recognised around the world.

“Like many of my generation I grew up enjoying the television shows created by Gerry Anderson, and I’m thrilled that we’ve partnered with Anderson Entertainment to create new stories featuring some of his most iconic shows.

“New Captain Scarlet, Space Precinct, Terrahawks and Time Bomb Comics – what a combination!”

Jamie Anderson adds: “Seeing these three Anderson titles getting a new lease of life is a real thrill for me. The Time Bomb team has done a fantastic job of building out the worlds, keeping an authentic feeling to the stories, and making stunning-looking strips. I can’t wait for Anderson fans across the globe to enjoy these new stories.”

Spectrum will be opening for pre-order sales on Kickstarter in April with publication later in 2022.

Laura Freedman-Dagg appointed Head of Retail, Licensing, by Global Licensing Group

Posted on by

Global Licensing Group has appointed Laura Freedman-Dagg to the newly created role Head of Retail, Licensing.

Prior to taking maternity leave, Laura held the position of event manager, Brand Licensing Europe, where she was integral in growing the trade show’s retail proposition, successfully attracting an increasing number of high-quality European retailers to attend the event each year.

In her new role as Head of Retail, Licensing, Laura will work across the business’s global event portfolio, including Licensing Expo, the European and North American Brand & Licensing Innovation Summits and Brand Licensing Europe, to continue to deliver incredible content and meaningful meetings for retailers and exhibitors.

“The new Head of Retail role reflects the continued investment from Informa Markets to focus on driving retail attendance at our industry-leading licensing events,” says Anna Knight, VP, Licensing.

“We know from talking to our customers that meeting and engaging with retailers is a huge priority for them, hence our introduction of many new initiatives over the last few years, including the Retail Mentoring Programme, Retail Trends Lounge with exclusive content sessions, VIP matchmaking concierge service, category specific show features (publishing, heritage and interiors and gaming) and the focus on location based experiences planned for Licensing Expo 2022.

“Equally, retailers also rely on our events to facilitate introductions between them and brand owners. As BLE event manager, Laura nurtured incredible relationships with key retailers, and I know she’ll continue to deliver ROI for them and our exhibitors and partners.”

Laura Freedman-Dagg added, “It’s brilliant to be back working with the Global Licensing Group. I loved developing the BLE retail proposition, and to be able to recreate that globally across our other event brands will be fantastic.

“One thing I’ve learnt over the years is that the retail buying calendar isn’t homogenous so it’s important that the whole portfolio of Global Licensing Group events can deliver value when – and where – it’s needed. Not only do we have world-class events already scheduled in the calendar, but we also have the reach and flexibility to innovate and introduce new, creative solutions.

“Our ethos has always been to stay close to our customers (retailers and exhibitors) so that we can understand what the market needs from us and act quickly to deliver it. This role will allow to us to do this even more effectively.”

Bicycle Playing Cards launches limited-edition Smiley deck

Posted on by

Bicycle, the bestselling playing card brand in the world, is launching a Bicycle x Smiley Collector’s Edition. The commemorative decks are part of Smiley’s 50thanniversary takeover with Bicycle and other major brands incorporating the trademark “smile” image into established products.

The limited-edition deck features a design created by world-renowned graffiti artist, André Saraiva, who transformed Smiley’s original “Take the Time to Smile” campaign Smiley icon into the design for this premium Bicycle playing card deck.

Each capsule edition Bicycle x Smiley Collector’s Edition playing card deck features a foldout image of the iconic “Smiley” and a unique number out of 9,999 limited-edition card decks.

Bicycle x Smiley Collector’s Edition playing card decks will be available for $49.99 at select Nordstrom locations throughout the United States as well as at Nordstrom.com. The collectible Bicycle x Smiley Collector’s Edition playing card decks will also be available at major retailers in Germany, Spain and France.

“As a leader in the playing card market, Bicycle continues to leverage its platform to innovate and grow with strategic partnerships, like this one with the Original Smiley brand,” says Tricia Bouras, CEO, USPCC. “Our partnership with Smiley demonstrates our leadership and commitment to providing new products to card players and collectors across the globe.”

Bicycle recently launched its first-ever NFT “Genesis Collection,” featuring the brand’s iconic cards transformed 1000 years into the future by artist Adrian Valenzuela.

“Smiley is the original brand for spreading happiness and positivity, which makes a partnership with Bicycle such a natural fit,” says Lori Heiss-Tiplady, SVP Toys & Publishing, Smiley Company. “As the leading maker of playing cards in the world, this much-loved brand has also brought smiles to the faces of millions of people, providing them with many happy hours playing games with friends and family.

“Creating products that provide magical moments for people is something both Smiley and Bicycle are proud of, and this limited-edition set of playing cards created in honour of our 50th anniversary will encourage people to take the time to smile with its beautiful design and surprise Smiley paper engineering.”

 

Blu Goblin to launch replica Bullseye trophy in support of the Stroke Association

Posted on by

The next drop from Blu Goblin will be a limited-edition replica of the Bronze Bully Trophy from popular TV game show Bullseye. The launch is to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the show and to support the Stroke Association.

Bullseye fans, darts enthusiasts and trophy collectors from around the world can order their limited-edition replica Bronze Bully from later this month at www.blugoblin.com. Crafted from polystone resin and painted, each replica comes with an individually numbered Certificate of Authenticity, and is delivered in a bespoke presentation box.

A Louis Kennedy innovation, Blu Goblin creates limited-edition, exclusively licensed collectible models, replicas, figures and art, from nostalgia to modern day, across the worlds of entertainment, sport and gaming. Proceeds from every single transaction raise money for good causes.

In the early days of developing Blu Goblin, Louis Kennedy approached Bulldog Licensing to discuss opportunities from the portfolio of brands it represents, including Bullseye.

Vicky Miller, Licensing Director at Bulldog Licensing, says: “We loved the Blu Goblin model as soon as we saw it. Creating high-quality, limited-edition products for fans and supporting incredibly important causes at the same time is a winning combination. We are thrilled to be working with the team to launch this very special Bronze Bully, a super, smashing, great way for fans to celebrate 40 years of their favourite gameshow!”

A key feature of the partnership is to raise funds and awareness for the Stroke Association, a charity working across the UK to support people to rebuild their lives after stroke. For each Bronze Bully sold, Blu Goblin will donate 10% of the sales to the Stroke Association.

Saul Heselden, Head of Corporate Partnerships at the Stroke Association, says: “Stroke strikes every five minutes in the UK and it changes lives in an instant. Our much-needed specialist support, research and campaigning are only possible with the generosity of our supporters.

“We’re thrilled that Bulldog Licensing and the Blu Goblin team have worked together to support the Stroke Association through the sale of limited-edition replicas of Bronze Bully. The funds raised will go a long way in supporting our work to rebuild even more lives after stroke.”

Tracey Richardson, Licensing and Partnerships Director at Louis Kennedy, adds: “I recommend all Bullseye fans, darts enthusiasts and Stroke Association supporters visit www.blugoblin.com now, where they can sign up for our Newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram, to ensure they are the first to know when the limited-edition replica Bronze Bully trophy is available to order.”

Blu Goblin launched on 2 March with framed limited edition prints inspired by the recent Tokyo Art and Photography exhibition at the Ashmolean Museum. Future campaigns include a Beano Chess Set, Dennis 70th anniversary statuette and Danger Mouse 40th anniversary figurine collection.

Louis Kennedy launches DTC platform to raise money for good causes

Precious Moments revs up its licensing programme with Mad Engine deal

Posted on by

Precious Moments has announced the addition of Mad Engine Global as a key licensing partner for a full range of Precious Moments apparel and accessories.

The deal, brokered on behalf of Precious Moments by Spotlight Licensing and Brand Management, is a strong strategic partnership that aims to keep the cherished brand fresh and relevant for current fans while also appealing to new audiences who may be discovering it for the first time.

“We are thrilled to be working with such an iconic brand as Precious Moments. Nostalgic ‘feel good’ properties are in demand with our junior and young adult consumer, so we can’t wait to put our fun twist on apparel and accessories and bring it to retail,” says Cindy Levitt, SVP Licensing, Mad Engine Global.

With a brand history spanning more than four decades, Precious Moments is a widely recognised part of pop culture and the diverse range of Precious Moments products planned by Mad Engine reflects the many ways Precious Moments’ brand appeal spans generations, with products for everyone from infants and young children to teens and adults.

Shehnaz Safiuddin, Vice President, Product and Marketing for Precious Moments, says: “Mad Engine is known as an industry innovator and trend-setter. We are excited to work with their artists and designers to leverage our highly recognisable characters and storied brand history to create fashion-forward products appealing to younger consumers as well as great-looking apparel and accessories that longtime fans and collectors will love.”

Mad Engine has been granted rights to utilise iconic Precious Moments branding and art on apparel for all ages and accessories such as backpacks, caps, hats, tote bags, hair accessories, and cold weather gear. Mad Engine will sell Precious Moments products through U.S. and Canadian retailers starting in June 2022. Worldwide print-on-demand and merchandise-on-demand programmes will also be available.