The collection is available now in selected Tesco stores, thanks to a partnership between Thomas & Friends and National Autistic Society.

Mattel has announced the renewal of the National Autistic Society partnership for a second year to develop a range of clothing using the Thomas & Friends brand. An autism friendly collection will be available exclusively at F&F Clothing in selected Tesco stores until 29th April, including during World Autism Acceptance Week 2nd – 8th April 2024.

Some autistic people are highly sensitive to the feel and colour of certain materials, to the extent that some clothing is unpleasant or even painful to wear. Research has shown that the biggest considerations in choosing clothing for autistic children are pull on clothing, easy dressing, no back neck woven labels, no buttons and Velcro fastenings.

F&F have designed the collection with all these features in mind, with soft fabric, loose-fitting t-shirts, jumpers and tracksuits, all designed for ease of dressing and suitable for autistic children aged 1 -6 years.

F&F Clothing will donate 5% of the full retail price of this product to the National Autistic Society, to help the charity to continue its vital work providing information and advice and campaigning for a society that works for autistic people.

Peter Watt, Director of national programmes at the National Autistic Society, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Thomas & Friends and Tesco F&F to create such an important range of clothing for autistic children. Parents and autistic young people often tell us how sensory sensitivities can mean that autistic children struggle with certain clothes. Finding the right clothing can make shopping difficult, time consuming and stressful. So, it’s really great to have the chance to develop this autism friendly collection.”

Mattel introduced Bruno, the first autistic character in the Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go series and franchise, in 2022, voiced by nine-year-old actor Elliott Garcia, who is himself autistic.

Claudia Caron, Thomas & Friends UK Marketing manager added: “Thomas & Friends is an inclusive brand that invites all of our fans to celebrate friendship and teamwork. But, we are especially proud to be supporting our Thomas & Friends community of autistic fans and continuing a great partnership with the National Autistic Society and Tesco F&F to offer more choices and accessible clothing.”

India Hyatt Mailes, Brands and Licensing at F&F Clothing, said: “We have worked hard with Mattel and the National Autistic Society to bring to life a range of sensory friendly clothing encompassing all the much-loved Thomas & Friends characters. We have recognised the importance of ensuring all sensory elements have been considered for the range including no back neck labels, the removal of drawcords and super soft fabrics and prints.”

The collection is available in local Tesco Extra stores until 29th April 2024.