Bulldog will build on programmes for Popeye, Betty Boop, Cuphead, Flash Gordon and The Phantom, following semi-retirement of King Features’ long-term UK agent, John McInnerny.
Bulldog Licensing has been confirmed as the new UK and Ireland agent for King Features.
The agency will now be looking to continue the momentum of King Features’ brands throughout the territories, further expanding the reach of Popeye, Betty Boop, Cuphead, Flash Gordon and The Phantom.
The appointment follows the semi-retirement of John McInnerny, founder of Allsorts Licensing, King Features’ long-term UK agent.
Bulldog Licensing will look to build upon the success of the established licensing programme in the UK and Ireland, with representation for these classic characters across merchandising categories.
King Features’ is currently continuing the anniversary celebrations for Betty Boop’s 90th and Olive Oyl’s 100th.
“We’re extremely excited to have Bulldog Licensing onboard to represent our iconic characters in the UK and Ireland, and we expect great things to come for our brands,” said Carla Silva, vice president and general manager, global head of licensing, King Features. “But the appointment is bittersweet. John McInnerny of Allsorts has been a dedicated agent and friend to the King Features family for many, many years.
“He is extremely well respected across the industry and his great sense of humor endears him to everyone he meets. We regret that our working relationship has come to an end but wish him a very happy and restful semi-retirement. Looking toward the future, we are eager to explore the next era of merchandising and promotions in the territories with Bulldog Licensing.”
Rob Corney, group md of Bulldog Licensing, added: “King Features owns one of the most iconic collections of character brands in the world and the team at Bulldog are incredibly excited to have the opportunity to continue their expansion in our home territory.
“On a personal note, I would like to wish John McInnerny all the very best as he moves to semi-retirement. John has been a huge influence on the licensing market and has been someone who has provided untold help and advice to me over the years. To pick up his mantle is a great honour.”
The appointment of Bulldog continues King Features’ global expansion strategy as it looks to extend its international reach. Across recent months it has appointed agents across the world including MJA Licensing in France, WildBrain CPLG in Germany, Black White Orange in India, Vertical Licensing in Brazil, as well as renewing its relationship with current agents around the world.
Want to read more news like this? Simply sign up to our daily digest by clicking here. You can also follow @LicensingSource on Twitter and @licensing_source on Instagram.
