Including WildBrain CPLG scoring new pan-regional deals for some of Europe’s leading football clubs.
Source rounds up more news from the licensing industry across the globe from the week.
WildBrain CPLG has scored a wave of pan-regional deals in Middle East and North Africa on behalf of the five leading European football clubs it represents in the market: Arsenal, FC Barcelona, Juventus, Liverpool FC and Manchester City. For Arsenal, Barcelona and Man City, a DTR has been secured with fashion retailer RIVA; Andy Enterprises is on board for apparel and accessories across Arsenal and Liverpool; Trucare is launching bedding and homewares for Barcelona and Man City; and ESAL is creating footballs for Barcelona and Liverpool. Further partners secured include Hollywood Magic for Barcelona and Man City apparel ranges, plus Sun CE for back to school products across all five clubs.
Spin Master has acquired London-based Rubik’s Brand, owner of the iconic Rubik’s Cube. “The Rubik’s Cube is an iconic puzzle that has permeated pop culture and captivated fans for more than 40 years,” said Elizabeth LoVecchio, vp marketing games at Spin Master. “We are excited for the opportunity to put our marquee innovation on the entire Rubik’s portfolio and expand distribution through our global footprint.”
Poetic Brands has added FIFA to its portfolio. The new clothing range will aim to capitalise on the iconic historical marques and logos within the organisation’s stable. Items will include t-shirts, sweatshirts and nightwear and will launch into UK retailers from SS21.
Steamforged Games is bringing Bandai Namco Entertainment’s 1980 arcade game Pac-Man to the tabletop. Pac-Man: The Card Game will hit stores on November 13 and will be distributed in the UK and Ireland by John Adams. It will be available in a pack of 108 cards (across two decks).
Egmont Magazines is expanding its licensed primary boys’ portfolio with the launch of Power Rangers magazine. Based on the new Beast Morphers series, the title includes exclusive strips, inside info on the Rangers and their skills, plus puzzles, posters and competitions.
Reebok has collaborated with Sony Pictures Consumer Products on a new Ghostbusters FW20 footwear and apparel capsule. The first of two planned installments arrives on October 31.
Running Press and Crayola have teamed up to publish a range of colourfully designed products across Running Press imprints, Black Dog & Leventhal, RP Studio and Running Press Miniature Editions. Items will include children’s activity books, stationery products and mini kits, aimed to encourage creativity.
Blue Planet Software, known worldwide as the sole agent for the Tetris brand, has confirmed that the company will now be recognised by the same name as the iconic property it represents. In addition to this, the company also revealed 18 new and returning merchandise partners for Tetris. In the UK, these include Hunter Price (lifestyle products) and Fizz Creations (keychains), but the new signings also encompass the US, Europe and Asia.
TOMY has been awarded the master toy licence for upcoming animation, Ron’s Gone Wrong from Disney and Locksmith Animation. The line will include action figures and plush toys, and will feature a variety of core characters from the movie. Due to be released in April 2021, Ron’s Gone Wrong follows Barney, an unpopular preteen who is introduced to the walking, talking, digitally connected devices called B*Bots which are pitched as being every kid’s ‘Best Friend Out of the Box’.
Aurora Jewellery has teamed up with Sony Pictures Consumer Products for the launch of an official Outlander collection. The deal was brokered by Wildbrain CPLG.
TeamTO has acquired NINN, a series of graphic novels by Jean-Michel Darlot and Johan Pilet. The company is planning to produce an ambitious animated limited series for the 7+ audience, starring Ninn, an 11 year old girl with a mysterious connection to the Paris Metro.
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.
