Agency will be showing classic children’s picture book property at BLE.
Metrostar has added to its portfolio of literary brands, welcoming classic children’s picture book property, Hairy Maclary & Friends.
The agency will represent the brand in the UK – it joins classics including Elmer the Patchwork Elephant and Dear Zoo in its roster.
The books – which are written by New Zealand author Lynley Dodd and managed by Penguin Random House Australia – have been family favourites for over 30 years.
There is already a UK stage show, produced by Nonsense Room and licensed product is doing well in Australia and New Zealand.
In the UK, Metrostar will target Hairy Maclary & Friends at the baby market in apparel, soft toys, puzzles, melamine, greetings, homewares and baby gift.
Claire Potter, Metrostar’s md, commented: “There is strong interest in classic picture books, particularly for the baby market and Hairy Maclary offers something a little different.
“We especially love Lynley Dodd’s beautiful artwork and bouncing rhymes. Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy is going to fit in well at Metrostar.”
Reagan Croucher, senior brands and licensing manager at Penguin Books Australia, added: “We approached Metrostar because of their great work with Elmer and Dear Zoo and have been impressed by their considered yet very positive approach to licensing.
“We are greatly enjoying the process of getting Hairy Maclary ready for BLE.”
Want to read more news like this? Simply sign up to our daily digest by clicking here. You can also follow @LicensingSource on Twitter.
