Including Beano Studios teaming up with Sky Kids for new Beano-inspired TV show.
The Source rounds up more news from the licensing industry across the globe from the week.
Sky Kids has dialled up on original content, teaming with Beano Studios to produce a new TV show called So Beano, inspired by Beano.com. The presenter-led show – which is available for customers on Sky, the Sky Kids app and Now TV kids platform – is made up of 26 15-minute episodes and is aimed at eight to 11 year olds. It includes eight unique sketch arts and fresh talent in the form of presenters, animators, comedy writers and performers. It is hosted by rising YouTuber Joe Tasker, comedy actress Nimisha Odedra, online fan favourite Emma Shaw and Joseph Robinson, who makes his TV debut.
Rubie’s Masquerade has secured a deal with Epic Games to create a range of Fortnite dress up for the European market. The collection will include costumes, masks and accessories. The deal was brokered by IMG.
A new reinvigorated series of Thomas & Friends has launched on Channel 5’s Milkshake block. The show includes new international and female characters, a new theme tune, a faster paced format, plus a collaboration with the United Nations. The move is part of Mattel’s plans to increase the appeal of the brand with a global audience.
More retailers are embracing the Original Stormtrooper licensing programme from Shepperton Design Studios, with new designs set to appear in M&S, Primark, Sainsbury’s, Asda and Tesco, with Golden Goose also adding to the account team to drive even more growth. The current product range includes apparel, gifting and celebration, while there is room for further growth as plush, posters, rainwear and more products in development.
ITV Studios Global Entertainment has named Basic Fun as the US toy distributor for upcoming action TV series Robozuna. This follows on from the news of Hengxin Shambala Kids as master toy partner in China and Bandai as the UK toy distributor.
Dog Whisperer Productions has revealed two new licensing deals for products inspired by TV series, the Dog Whisperer. European Home Designs (dog toys, beds and related products) and Unitrex (aromatherapy-related products) have both secured deals, which were brokered by All American Licensing.
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