HarperCollins Children’s Books has appointed The Point.1888 to represent the licensing programmes for three of its most successful children’s book brands: The World of David Walliams and Judith Kerr’s The Tiger Who Came to Tea and Mog.
The Point.1888 will now be tasked with delivering the continued UK success of the three brands’ retail-led strategies, providing long-term growth opportunities. Seeking to bolster retailer engagement and increase brand awareness outside of publishing, The Point.1888 will also cement connections with fans old and new, building upon the existing roster of licensees.
The World of David Walliams licensing programme has boasted four UK Licensing Award nominations to date for its merchandise including nightwear, greeting cards, games, stationery, bedding and toiletries. Many of David’s titles have also been adapted for the stage and screen, and Gangsta Granny – the UK’s best selling kids’ book over the last decade – has been successfully adapted into a Merlin theme park ride and stage productions, as well as two TV specials.
Judith Kerr’s beloved picture books, The Tiger Who Came to Tea and the Mog the Forgetful Cat series, have been entertaining children for over half a century, selling 10 million copies combined and have been adapted into major stage productions and TV animations.
Since launching with John Lewis and Waterstones in 2011, the licensing programmes have brought Mog and Tiger to life through plush toys, games and puzzles, dress-up, apparel, art prints, stamps and an award-winning stationery range.
New style guides are available for all three brands, delivering fresh creative assets to inspire licensees and retailers.
The Point.1888 will work with existing licensees to identify retail gaps and expand listings for all three brands, as well as seeking new on-brand merchandise ranges, digital platforms and other opportunities such as experiential events.
“We are thrilled to be working with The Point.1888,” commented John Collins, commercial brand and licensing development director at HarperCollins Children’s Books. “We are looking forward to harnessing their expertise and energy to drive further success for our portfolio of brands and forging new links with best in class partners who will be key to delivering our vision for each property.”
Katie Wilkinson, head of publishing and operations at The Point.1888, continued: “We’re delighted to join forces with HarperCollins and help bring some legendary children’s stories to life. It’s a real privilege to work on these brands and our team is committed to delivering these beloved properties in an authentic way that reaches all areas of retail. With lots of exciting plans ahead, we can’t wait for everyone out there to get a real taste of what these iconic brands have in store.”
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