52 new episodes on way, plus moves into new markets including China and Russia.
Preschool series Olly the Little White Van is really hitting the accelerator following new investment.
A further 52 episodes are set to join the existing 65, after an international co-production deal was struck.
The agreement will see the creative lead stay in the UK, but with a significant role played by one of India’s leading producers. A joint venture is being established in Chennai, with the plan being to augment TV production with greatly enhanced investment in new media, including online, mobile, augmented reality and e-learning – all areas in which the brand has already established a presence.
“This is a serious achievement for an independent,” said Henry Becket, executive producer and CEO of brand owner, Olly Ltd. “Close on £4 million has already been invested in the brand and this next step will take that figure over £6 million. Not many homegrown preschool series make that leap.”
It is also anticipated that Olly will grow into new regions for both broadcasting and licensing, supporting the progress already being made in markets such as China, Russia and Turkey.
In China, the show is shortly to begin airing in Mandarin on the main children’s channel, with two character vehicles scheduled for launch pre-Christmas.
In Russia, the series has notched up an impressive 44 million YouTube viewings and talks are at an advanced stage with one of the territory’s leading licensing and merchandising companies. In Turkey, ten colouring and activity books have just been added to the 30 product lines already on sale.
“Our aim has always been to create something which becomes sustainable – in other words, a true global brand – which is ever more challenging in the current climate,” continued Henry. “But with this announcement we are one step closer to achieving that, with a series that parents, as well as children around the world can genuinely relate to.”
