Including Sutikki confirming Universal Kids as the US TV home for Moon and Me.
The Source rounds up more news from the licensing industry across the globe from the week.
Andersen Press has revealed a swathe of activity to mark the 30th anniversary of the Elmer picture book brand. Special anniversary editions of books, clothing and consumer products will launch throughout the year, while a new book – Elmer’s Birthday – is being written and illustrated by David McKee. The biggest ever Elmer Day will take place on May 25, with schools, nurseries, bookshops and libraries hosting their own birthday parties. In addition, the first ever major retrospective of David’s original art – Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee – will be hosted at Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children’s Books in 2019 before a UK tour. Elmer’s Big Art Parades will also be taking place in Tyne and Wear, Suffolk and Plymouth.
Sutikki has confirmed that Universal Kids will be the US TV home of hotly tipped new preschool series, Moon and Me. Created by Andrew Davenport, the show will premiere later this year. It will combine the latest production methods with traditional storytelling, comedy and music.
Lisle Licensing has signed DJ Murphy as the magazine publisher in the UK and Ireland for Smooshy Mushy. As the collectable line rolls out in Europe, additional licensees in publishing and apparel will shortly be announced.
Factory Rights has revealed that Mr Benn will be showcased as part of this year’s Bee in the City public art trail in Manchester. The ‘Mr Benn Bee’ will join a giant colony of over 100 super-sized bee sculptures winging their way to Manchester this summer for one of the biggest public art exhibitions the city has seen. The trail will run from July 23 to September 23 across the city.
Global licensing agency Centa IP has expanded its team and signed a number of new clients ahead of Licensing Expo. Gail Mitchell has accepted the role of ceo of Centa IP, following the acquisition of her company – The Fusion Agency – in July 2017. In addition, Val Fry has joined from Coolabi as vp licensing, based in London. Rebekah Belzer will continue to manage the Americas and Vincent Jones will oversee the Asia-Pacific business. Meanwhile, Centa IP has signed to represent global licensing rights for a number of properties including Monster Teddies; Go Away, Unicorn!; Watchdog; Nate is Late; and Kally’s Mashup. On top of this, the Asia-Pacific office has picked up local representation for pocketwatch and, in particular, Ryan’s Toy Review.
Fandango FanShop has launched its first ever Prop Shop, giving fans a one of a kind opportunity to own official, limited edition prop replicas from major films and franchises. Teaming with Universal Studio’s, the first offering will feature official prop replicas molded from original on-screen props from the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World franchises.
Social influencer LaurDIY has revealed a new bedding and room décor deal with Jay Franco & Sons. The range will include signature bedding, bath, beach and home storage products inspired by the designs of the YouTub star. The deal was brokered by The Brand Liaison.
One Animation has appointed Michele Schofield as its new svp, content development and sales.
Apparel company Ivory Ella has confirmed its first ever collaboration with an artist, launching two limited edition t-shirts featuring the artwork of Kendra Dandy and her Bouffants and Broken Hearts brand. The collaboration was brokered by Jewel Branding & Licensing. Ivory Ella was created in response to the global elephant poaching crisis.
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