Lisle Licensing has confirmed Igloo Books as master publishing partner for Mood Bears.
This marks the first licensing deal for the colourful collection of eight bears which reflect human emotions (Happy, Sad, Silly, Calm, Nervous, Angry, Love and Hope).
Mood Bears was a landslide winner in the 2023 series of Dragons’ Den, swiftly securing a worldwide manufacturing, sales and distribution partnership with TOMY.
Lisle was appointed at the end of 2023 with a brief to develop a strategy spanning categories to include publishing, apparel, fashion accessories, back to school, plus arts and crafts.
Igloo Books will develop a range of titles – launching in early 2025 – including a soft touch cover storybook that focuses on a single Mood Bear story, but introduces all eight characters which will inspire children of all ages to understand and identify the wide variety of emotions they feel.
This will be supported by a perfect bound colouring book including line art of all the bears and areas for readers to note their thoughts, feelings and emotions, as well as a traditional activity book featuring puzzles, games and activities which draw upon social and emotional learning.
“This is a significant signing for the growth of Mood Bears and our strategic licensing programme,” commented Francesca Lisle, md at Lisle Licensing. “Igloo are well versed in creating book ranges which appeal to a variety of readers and have an excellent in-house creative team and a global sales team. They are the perfect publishing partner for the loveable Mood Bears brand.”
Mike Heron, head of licensed publishing at Igloo Books, continued: “Mood Bears is a truly fantastic brand with great potential. From the moment Jo spoke with us about the story behind the brand we were hooked. These bears are not just a toy, they are a friend when a child needs one the most, offering a supportive hug during an unsettled time.
“Our hope is that this publishing range will be able to bring a little of that light into their lives and help children of all ages to understand who they are and how they feel in a fun, relatable way.”
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