edition 7 buggtoysandlicensing.com
+ LOONEY TUNES FEATURE
+ UGLY DOLL
+ FOREVER CLOVER
from the editor what do they have to say? Tony Bugg - Could this be the year of the
We will have our Smart Car in the annex of
Then we have the weekly email bulletin
Dinosaur? Or could One Direction be the
the fair again this year and will be looking
and Bugg Express updates to send out
next Beatles?
to meet with you to discuss taking a posi-
quick updates across a range of things
tion with our publication, Bugg Toys and
in simple formats. The same goes for our
Licensing, both online and in print.
Twitter and Facebook pages, we scan
From my trip in January to Hong Kong Toy and Licensing Show I get the feeling that
the web and find interesting things to post Matthew Bugg - They say that less is more,
market. It feels like the whole online crisis
this is something we had in mind when
has settled down a little and the major
creating our new publication, Bugg Toys
Finally, our new magazine is fresh and
players have clawed back some ground.
& Licensing. The focus needs to be qual-
unique and gives you a different take on
ity information delivered in a way that is
the things you see in the industry day-to-
The challenge from pure bricks and mor-
easy to read and quick to scan. Needless
day. We keep things as short and sweet
tar perspective is for the major retailers to
to say pictures paint a thousand words...
as possible with a huge focus on great
develop new and exciting strategies in
which keep you up-to-date industry wide.
imagery.
store to ensure that the shoppers experi-
These days, things like Google, Twitter and
ence in store is such that they want to
Facebook mean that information is very
We hope that you enjoy the new look and
come back to see more.
easily accessible, and if you look hard
feel and would welcome your feedback
enough you can find out almost anything
as always.
From my experience brands can certainly
you want. Having said that, often people
do this for you. One of the most well ex-
don’t have the time and energy to spend
ecuted and impactful examples of this
finding what it is that they do want. And
is the program Peter Alexander put to-
sometimes people don’t even know what
gether with both Warner Bros. and Disney.
it is that they want!
There are many examples of great brands,
matt@buggtoysandlicensing.com
I guess that’s where we hope our publica-
as a guide to Toys and Licensing. The
or service and are best viewed in store.
tion can assist the industry, in the areas of
views and opinions provided are based
news, updates and general industry infor-
upon the views and opinions of its writers.
As we continue to roll out our new look
mation. If only I had a dollar for every time
website, weekly bulletin and magazine
somebody called and asked me ‘do you
In no way is Bugg Toys & Licensing a fac-
program, we will be looking for innovative
know who represents XX brand’?
tual guide to Toys and Licensing and does not take responsibility for how the informa-
ways we can bring your brands and prodThe idea is to provide a website that you can visit daily, scan over and see what’s new and then move on. If you see some-
Bugg Toys & Licensing | PO BOX 491 Ber-
age you to talk to us about how we can
thing you like, you can read it quickly and
wick, VIC 3806 Australia
work together with you to develop brands
easily without 400 pop-up ads and flash-
P: +61 3 9769 3963 |
and branded toys in our market and
ing lights blinking in your face.
E: info@buggtoysandlicensing.com
04
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
38 40 42 43
tion provided is used by its consumers.
Licensing is our business and we encour-
abroad.
37
Bugg Toys & Licensing has been compiled
which add significant value to a product
ucts to life.
06
6
FEATURE ARTICLES
LOONEY TUNES IS A BRAND WITH CHARACTER
WE CATCH UP WITH CHIEF UGLY ALITA FRIEDMAN
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
contents
there is a lot more positive energy in the
licensor update
licensee news
lIMA AUSTRALIA UPDATE
55 B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
05
licensor update Ă—
6 06
B U G G
Ă—
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
Katrina Southon, Sr Vice President and
What would you like to achieve with
Any new plans for SpongeBob? Dora?
Managing Director
your CP products business in the next five
We see tremendous untapped opportu-
Viacom International Media Networks
years?
nity for SpongeBob in Australia and New
Australia and New Zealand
We’re making great strides to further de-
Zealand, particularly with the new core
velop our relationships with retailers and
style guide that focuses on all relevant
licensees, and it’s a big priority for us to
segments. Strong across television, online,
continue to do this. The progression we’ve
on mobile and in the app space, Sponge-
made in the past two years has definitely
Bob will go even bigger with the launch of
had an impact, so I’d like to keep that
the Massively Multi-Player Online Games
momentum moving forward over the next
(MMOG), new episodes from May this
five plus years. I truly believe that Teen-
year on air and his second Paramount
Australia’s largest independent licensing
age Mutant Ninja Turtles is going to mark
Pictures feature film in December 2014,
agency, now going into its 20th year of
a milestone for us and dominate the boys’
so these also present opportunities. With
business, will once again showcase their
aisles and I am looking forward to sharing
Dora, we’re rolling out a fresh look that
key brands at Melbourne Toy Fair. Rep-
lots of success stories in the future.
includes a new outfit, enhanced environ-
resenting a portfolio of globally success-
ments and more, and updated product is
ful brands and home grown favourites
What have been some highlights of the
already hitting retail. Dora is very strong
Haven will be featuring brands from ma-
past 12 months?
locally, and in 2013 product lines will focus
jor licensors including Nickelodeon, HIT
We’ve had a string of successes in work-
on understanding key development steps
Entertainment, MGA Entertainment, 20th
How important is the consumer product
ing with Haven and our retailers over the
for preschoolers as well as a new infant
Century Fox, ABC Endemol, IMPS, LEGO
business to you in Australia?
past twelve months, and I’m eager to see
line.
Group, Saban, Sanrio, Sesame Workshop,
Consumer products is an essential part of
these continue. Collaborations with Big
Silvergate Media, Crust Demons Entertain-
our business in Australia and New Zealand,
W, Target, Toys R Us and Westfield have
Where does Australia fit into the global
ment, and more.
and it is one I’m keen to grow. When I was
all been very successful. These collabo-
operations of NVCP?
appointed Managing Director in February
rations not only strengthen our properties
We partner with our colleagues in the UK
Offering fan favourites spanning from ba-
of 2011, one of the first decisions I made
in the retail space, but also prove to our
as well as the US to develop a strategy
bies to adults, Haven Licensing will have a
was to boost our local presence by hiring
retail partners that we are a top-notch
that is bespoke to Australia. Our business
team of 15 on hand to take retailers, licen-
Claire O’Connor as Director of Consumer
partner that brings a lot to the table.
here punches well above its weight and
sees & promotional partners through the
Products. She’s built upon the long-stand-
We were also encouraged by the strong
I’m keen to take it to even greater heights.
brands that best suit their needs.
ing relationship we’ve had with Haven Li-
launch of an MTV t-shirt line with T-Bar, and
censing and truly taken our efforts to the
South Park continues to prove as popular
next level and raised our profile amongst
as ever. There’s been a lot of highlights,
retailers and licensees.
and we’re looking forward to more.
Tom Punch – Managing Director
Where do you see strengths in the NVCP
Uptake of Turtles lines has been strong
SYDNEY HEAD OFFICE 02 9357 9888
portfolio?
globally – what can we expect in Aus-
Yvonne King – Director
Making great brands, shows and charac-
tralia?
MELBOURNE OFFICE 03 9015 6615
ters is what we do best at Viacom, and
Claire has been collaborating closely with
this is what makes our portfolio so strong.
Haven on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
With a range that spans from pre-school
and we’re very excited to see it roll out
to adults, the portfolio lives up to its prom-
to retail in time for the Melbourne Toy Fair.
ise to offer “something for everyone.”
The global lines with HeadStart, Lego, Ac-
In terms of properties, the excitement
tivision and others are going to be sup-
around Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
plemented with products across apparel,
presents an incredible opportunity for us,
footwear, accessories, outdoor wheel
and Dora continues to go from strength
toys, sporting goods, food, drinks, confec-
to strength within Australia and NZ. I think
tionery and so much more that I think the
there is a massive opportunity to build
enthusiasm around the property speaks
SpongeBob in the AU/NZ consumer prod-
to the extraordinary appeal of the brand
ucts space, and we’ve only just started to
and the strong creative we are bringing to
scratch the surface with MTV.
each execution.
Haven Stand B10 Contact:
08
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
09
2013 is set to be a ground-breaking year
partners is unlike anything that we have
As part of an ongoing partnership with the
language version, 40 million fans on Face-
for the world’s number one television li-
ever seen before,” says Mark Kingston,
National Breast Cancer Foundation Cas-
book and three US Emmy Awards for Out-
censing and merchandising business Nick-
vice
products
co Blu have developed two new Sponge-
standing Animated Program.
elodeon & Viacom Consumer Products
UK, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Israel
Bob PinkPants sleep and underwear rang-
(NVCP) as new properties, characters,
and CEE, retail sales and trade market-
es to appear in Big W in 2013. Excitingly
For further licensing opportunites please
time-tested evergreens and blockbuster
ing Europe, NVCP. “I think the enthusiasm
SpongeBob tees are back in Jay
contact:
brands further extend and deepen its di-
around the property speaks to the extraor-
Jays and Gem have launched their new
verse portfolio.
dinary appeal of the brand. Our partners
QR technology ‘zappar’ tees in Target
Nickelodeon, Comedy Central and MTV
recognise the strength of the Turtles, the
featuring SpongeBob.
properties inspire creative consumer prod-
opportunities that lay in the series’ unique
The big news on top of all this is that Christ-
ucts that enable fans to experience their
mix of comedy and action along with its
mas 2014 will mark SpongeBob’s return
Older fans are also inspired by NVCP’s li-
president,
consumer
favourite characters off screen across pre-
striking visual style.”
to the big screen in his second theatrical
censing and merchandising programme,
school, boys and girls, tweens and adult-
For evergreens SpongeBob SquarePants
release where he and his arch enemy,
with the strength of the offer in iconic
focused brands.
and Dora the Explorer, new initiatives keep
Plankton, must come together to save Bi-
rock-loving delinquents, Beavis & Butt-
the properties fresh for NVCP’s myriad li-
kini Bottom.
head, irreverent animation South Park Expanding on this #1 pre-school girls
censing partners.
Con Goutzoulas@havenlic.com.au
and the classic MTV brand.
brand NVCP are showcasing Dora Infant – a baby collection styleguide perfect for the infant market designed with a warm and earthy colour palette which provides an alternative to the current traditional The all-new, CG animation Teenage Mu-
palette.
tant Ninja Turtles hit Australian and New
Launching Q2 2013, the campaign will be
Zealand television screens last October
executed on air via branded stunts and
with Turtles dominating the #1 program
Nick Jr.’s #1 pre-school TV show, broad-
promos; online with a branded page on
slot on Nickelodeon throughout Q4.
casting 4 times daily and on Channel
the website with tips, tools and download-
Nine Saturday and Sunday mornings has
ables via social media, including a Face-
Consistently among the Top Ten pro-
a busy year ahead with a fresh look and
book app and promotion; plus retail pos,
grammes in the 170 countries in which it
feel including …
promotions and giveaways.
airs, SpongeBob premiered its first-ever
• An Updated outfit and look
As excitement builds for the debut of the
stop motion special, It’s a SpongeBob
• Enhanced 3-D environments
new CG season 5 of the Nickelodeon and
Christmas, in December 2012 and was a
• CG elements in the big specials
Rainbow co-production Winx Club, the
ratings smash.
Hungry Jacks launched
• AND new show intro and theme song
best fairy friends have already strength-
their SpongeBob kids club promotion in
New packaging across the broad spec-
ened NVCP’s girls’ offering with their fash-
340 stores earlier this year and Tennis Aus-
trum of ANZ licensees is being rolled out
ion-forward attitude and magical trans-
tralia, in partnership with Nickelodeon
this year as new product hits retail. The
formations.
Supported across all Viacom International
brought the Nickelodeon world of enter-
Dora the Explorer app continues to domi-
Aspirational girl-focused products – in-
A new parternship with Globe – known for
Media Networks platforms, Nickelodeon
tainment to the very exciting international
nate the iTunes store in Australia retaining
cluding dolls, role-play, dress-up and
their iconic brands and part of the inter-
is committed to creating new episodes
arena of world tennis at The Australian
the #1 spot for pre-school app downloads
DVD’s – are already in market with new
national skateboarding landscape – has
and more to come.
SKU’s rolling out this year.
produced a global deal for Beavis & Butt-
poised to debut Turtles on air this June and
Throughout 2013, a 360-degree marketing
New in the pre-school sector, underwater
head skateboards and shoes which have
TV for in NZ and a May 2014 Paramount
programme is set to reinforce Dora’s core
classroom series Bubble Guppies has just
just been released at retail together with
Pictures feature film.
DNA – understanding and overcoming
had season 3 green lit for production and
tees from Stussy.
the key life events or ‘steps’ in pre-school-
Channel Nine announced as the Free To
South Park, celebrating its 16th season, is
censing – Nickelodeon/Viacom’s ANZ
ers life development. Called Step by Step
Air broadcast partner. The interactive pre-
being reinvigorated for consumer prod-
long term licencing agent has signed up
with Dora, the campaign will provide a
school series sees its first consumer prod-
ucts with new creative as the show con-
over 20 key licensees and combined with
new, focused and turnkey opportunity for
ucts launch Q4 2013 which will be DVD’s
tinues to dominate in its sector – 230+ epi-
retailers.
and computer games.
sodes, 120+
through to 2015, as well as Channel 11
In a very short space of time Haven Li-
the strength of VIMN’s global partners -
Open.
markets
worldwide,
40+
Turtles is well on its way to having product for most of the core licensed categories. “The reaction from licensee and retail
10
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
11
2013 is already proving to be an action-
a second-half launch.
ner of the Park will be ablaze with action
Betty Boop is regarded as one of the first
feats of strength when fortified with spin-
An exciting new CG film is currently in pre-
both on and off the track. Visitors will see
and most famous sex symbols. She’s a bil-
ach. 2012 saw Dolce & Gabbana partner
production with plans to release in 2014.
Products team at BBC Worldwide. The
Kids adventure brand Deadly 60 has just
exceptional precision driving and jaw-
lion-dollar retail property, licensed in 120
with Popeye to produce an apparel col-
Blinky’s homegrown, unisex appeal, pa-
50th anniversary of Doctor Who, which
launched on ABC1, screening weekly on
dropping stunts in the Stunts & Jumps zone;
countries with more than 400 licensees
lection for Spring/Summer under the D&G
rental nostalgia and handsome moderni-
has already spawned some commemo-
Thursday evenings at 6.30, plus the show
the world’s most expensive and power-
internationally manufacturing products in
brand. D&G joins a high-profile list of fash-
sation all point to the continued success
rative product releases, plus a worldwide
has continuing regular exposure on ABC3.
ful cars in Stig’s Supercar Garage; never
more than 1,000 categories. A true ever-
ion licensees and retailers who have car-
of the brand.
movie launch are just a couple of the ex-
Ikon Collectibles distribute the Character
before seen challenges and races across
green brand, Betty is recognised by 90%
ried Popeye, including Benetton, Bloom-
citing events the team is working on.
Options toy range which is currently avail-
both race circuits including the ‘Star in the
of women aged 18-34.
ingdale’s, Gap, H & M, Miss Sixty and Zara.
able at ABC Shops. Games from Imagina-
Reasonably Priced Car’ challenge; 4x4
The BBC Worldwide stand (F20) at the 2013
tion are also due to launch soon. Other
and trial bike riders showcasing their skills
A new high end range of loungewear will
The mighty mariner also has a success-
wear, manchester, footwear, outdoor toys
Australian Toy and Nursery Fair will focus
categories are open for discussion.
on the brutal Off-Road Challenge, and so
be launching in Myer for Mother’s Day
ful career in advertising, having recently
and more. For licensing enquiries, please
much more.
2013, designed by Whitehouse Institute of
promoted Mini Cooper automobiles and
contract Kerryn McCormack, Senior Ac-
Design Student Competition winner, Ten-
Bank of America mobile banking services.
count Manager, Merchantwise.
packed year for the Licensed Consumer
on showcasing the team’s plans for 3D
sions of interest in plush, apparel, sleep-
movie juggernaut Walking with Dinosaurs.
Children’s brands including Charlie and
Product is scheduled to launch in the sec-
Lola and In The Night Garden will also
World renowned brand Lonely Planet will
nille Sanders. Tennille worked with sleep-
ond half of the year, ahead of the movie
be presented on the stand. Charlie and
also be showcased at the Toy Fair, with
wear partner Mitch Dowd to create the
release in January 2014. Vivid Imagina-
Lola continues to be a consistent, under
the LCP team looking forward to sharing
range after taking out the top prize at
appointment by Flying Bark Productions to
tions is signed as the master toy partner,
the radar hit with kids and parents alike,
all the upcoming plans and establishing
an exclusive Betty Boop fashion event,
represent Australia’s most loveable larrikin,
and Hunter Products has just been an-
with increasing demand for product by
new partnerships for this globally success-
showcasing emerging designers from Mel-
Blinky Bill.
nounced as the local distributor.
both consumers and retailers. The recent
ful brand.
bourne’s Whitehouse Institute of Design,
Ph: +61 (3) 9520 1010 Merchantwise is excited to announce its
who drew on Betty Boop as inspiration for
Blinky was the brainchild of author Doro-
The spotlight will be firmly focussed on
over 16,000 tickets across 54 shows with
Contact Elie Mansour on 02 97444 4544
their garments. Tennille also received a
thy Wall, who in 1939 penned The Com-
iconic brand Doctor Who this year as it
regular programming on ABC2 and CBee-
or at elie.mansour@bbc.com, Rachael
once in a lifetime, all-inclusive trip to New
plete Adventures of Blinky Bill. In 1992,
celebrates its 50th Anniversary. A mar-
bies helping to push the demand for mer-
Hammond on 02 94777 585 or at rachael.
York City to complete work experience
Yoram Gross Studios – now Flying Bark Pro-
keting and PR campaign has launched,
chandise.
hammond@bbc.com or Brigid Roberts on
with renowned fashion powerhouse Anna
ductions - produced the original Blinky Bill
02 97444 4569 or at brigid.roberts@bbc.
Sui, working personally with Anna in her
feature film Blinky Bill, The Mischievous Ko-
com for more information.
design studio.
ala. The little koala with the heart of gold
live show at the Sydney Opera House sold
with some exciting activities planned surrounding this amazing milestone. A range
The Ultimate Outdoor Motoring Event
of commemorative products will be re-
launches at Sydney Motorsport Park 9-10
leased to support the already extensive
March 2013. Top Gear Festival Sydney is
Betty Boop partners with French beauty
to star in several TV series and movies, de-
merchandise program. The team has just
set to transform Sydney Motorsport Park
giant Lancôme. Cartoon heroine, Betty
lighting audiences around the world.
announced a global deal with the New
into petrol-head heaven, as cars and stars
Boop has become the new face of Hyp-
Zealand Mint for an exciting range of
take to the track in this inaugural outdoor
nôse Star, the latest mascara from beauty
The Blinky Bill TV series from the nineties is
commemorative coins. A legal tender sil-
motoring spectacular. As part of a whole
company, Lancôme.
still on air in Australia and regularly rates in
ver coin in a bespoke TARDIS presentation
host of motoring spectacles, Top Gear
case is the hero product in the range, and
Festival Sydney will feature the roar of the
Hypnôse Star is available now at Lancôme
The Blinky Bill brand has had very extensive
has already generated significant inter-
Red Bull Racing F1 team in action for the
Counters in Myer, David Jones and select-
and successful merchandising programs,
est at its launch at the recent World Coin
first time on a Sydney race circuit with lo-
ed Pharmacies. Since his first appearance
ranging from plush toys to activity books
Fair in Berlin. Master toy partner Character
cal hero and F1 race winner Mark Webber
in the comic strip, Thimble Theatre in 1929,
and everything in between. The brand
Options, distributed by Ikon Collectibles, is
at the wheel. The event offers a complete
Popeye the Sailorman has evolved into a
has generated over AUD $30 million in rev-
working on some commemorative toys for
Festival experience for visitors - every cor-
pop culture icon, performing astounding
enue from more than 60 licenses.
14
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
Merchantwise is now accepting expres-
was incredibly well received and went on
the top 20 children’s programs on ABC-TV.
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
15
Hugely anticipated blockbuster zombie
long-awaited follow-up to 2004’s hit com-
new DVD titles, eBooks and story apps
M&M’s® has a long and distinguished his-
Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed!
legacy continues, attracting legions of
apocalypse film World War Z, has been
edy, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Bur-
as well as a new master toy partner, The
tory stretching back to first launch in 1943.
slated by Paramount for US theatrical re-
gundy. Slated for release December 2013,
Bridge, developing the new S3 toy line for
Generations have grown up with the
Sonic enjoyed a significant cameo in Dis-
message for the first time. Beatles albums
lease June 21 2013. Starring Brad Pitt, one
this sequel sees the return of hit-making
SS 2014.
brand, associating M&M’s® with memo-
ney’s Wreck-It-Ralph – released 26th Dec
and new compilations continue to be best
of the biggest Hollywood superstars of the
front man, Will Ferrell as well as Steve
ries of fun, family and good times. Today,
‘12, grossing A$18M at the Box Office in
sellers throughout the world and there is
last 20 years the film will be rated PG-13,
Carell, Paul Rudd and Dave Koechner.
An exciting new Talking Friends QSR pro-
M&M’s® chocolate candies are the num-
Australia alone and ongoing PR in Aus-
very strong demand for Beatles merchan-
targeting teens and adults. The supporting
The sequel has been written by Will Far-
motion will be running in Australia/New
ber 1 confectionery brand globally. In Aus-
tralia’s leading children’s magazines. Ikon
dise amongst music lovers of all ages.
cast includes Matthew Fox (Lost) and Da-
rell and Adam McKay, directed by Mc-
Zealand from October 31, 2013 – De-
tralia, the M&M’s® confectionery brand
Collectibles have also recently launched
vid Morse (The Hurt Locker). At the helm is
Kay (Step Brothers, Talladega Nights) and
cember 4, 2013. An estimated 5 million
launched in 1983 and is now ranked in the
an exciting talking plush range.
visceral director Marc Forster who’s made
produced by Judd Apatow (Bridesmaids,
products will be produced for the 5 week
top 5 confectionery.
his career from delivering hard hitting ac-
Knocked Up).
period, with 2 premiums being released
rently includes a comprehensive Easter
per week. More details to be announced
and Christmas seasonal confectionery
of visceral Australian rock band AC/DC.
tion as well as impactful, sensitive emotion
new fans discovering the music and the
Merchandise curNovember 2013 sees the 40th anniversary
(Monster’s Ball, Finding Neverland, The
The original film is Paramounts #1 selling
soon! The Dragon-I talking plush range
range, auto accessories and memorabil-
Formed in Sydney in 1973 by brothers Mal-
Kite Runner, Quantum of Solace).
DVD in its price bracket, selling over 10
is set to expand with new characters
ia. The immense popularity of the M&M’s®
colm and Angus Young, AC/DC has gone
million DVD’s. As a character, Ron Bur-
launching for 2013: Talking Gina, Ginger,
characters and Mars Confectionery’s in-
on to sell more than 200 million albums
The film is based on the bestselling novel
gundy is immensely popular: with 2.3 mil-
Pierre, Santa and Angela. Talking Friends
vestment of over $5 Million in media an-
worldwide. Back in Black has sold an es-
by Max Brooks. His hardcover spent 4
lion “Likes” on Facebook, he ranked #26
has attracted over 11.5 million plus down-
nually ensures that longevity of this ever-
timated 50 million units making it the sec-
weeks on the New York Times Best Seller
on Empire Magazine’s 100 Greatest Movie
loads in Australia and New Zealand.
green brand. 2012 has been an exciting
ond highest selling album of any artist, be-
For over 12 years, Merchantwise have
List and sold 600,000 copies. Described by
Characters poll.
year with the launch of the M&M’s Action
hind only Michael Jackson’s Thriller – and
been leaders in brand licensing. But it
Pack app and further consumer market-
the highest selling album by any band.
doesn’t stop there. Let us show you how
USA Today as possessing “...more creativity and zip than entire crates of other
To use Ron Burgundy’s phrasing, we have
new fiction titles Mad Max meets The Hot
a feeling that this film will be “Kind of a big
Zone... It’s Apocalypse Now, pandemic-
deal”.
ing campaign planned for this year.
we can license, extend and market your AC/DC ranks fourth on VH1’s list of the
brand, standing out from the rest.
Newly transformed Sonic the Hedgehog
“100 Most Greatest Artists of Hard Rock”
For further information, contact Merchant-
video game, All-Stars Racing launched
and ranks 23rd on their list of the “100
wise, the brand licensing experts
Strawberry Shortcake will air Season 3 TV
16th November on Xbox 360, PlayStation
Greatest Artists of All Time.”
Phone: +61(3) 9520 1000,
The much anticipated trailer launched in
scenes in the US from January 2013 and
3, PlayStation Vita and Nintendo 3DS with
August 2012 and was viewed by over 15.4
will introduce new boy character Huckle-
a comprehensive marketing & PR cam-
The Beatles are also enjoying an anniver-
million people on YouTube and 8.5 million
berry Pie and new puppy friends for each
paign. The title was also launched on the
sary this year, with 50 years having passed
on iTunes – the 2nd most downloaded
girl. The new scenes will air in Australia
upcoming Nintendo Wii UÔ system. A PC
since the release of hit albums Please
YouTube video after Obama’s election
from Jan 2014. Season 1 and season 2
digital download is available from Febru-
Please Me and With The Beatles. Songs
speech.
are currently airing on Toast TV - Channel
ary 2013. In support of the launch, Danica
like I Saw Her Standing There, Love Me
11. Strawberry Shortcake surprises users
Patrick raced a custom Sonic the Hedge-
Do, Twist and Shout, All My Loving and Roll
The design direction for merchandise
of Tango a free video calling service that
hog/GoDaddy.com
the
Over Beethoven signalled the rise of The
combines military and zombie trends.
connects over 45M people around the
NASCAR Nationwide Series O’Reilly Auto
Beatles phenomenon and indeed gen-
Product
t-shirts,
world, by appearing onscreen during their
Parts Challenge. The race and branded
erations of Brit-Pop to follow.
headwear, action figures, posters, gifts
calls. She also has a free social expression
car could be seen by fans on ESPN, the
and collectibles.
app that allows kids to dress up Strawberry
most popular sports network worldwide.
The Beatles is an ageless brand that nev-
and her friends and share their creations
The event garnered more than 73 million
er wanes in appeal. Although the band
via email. 2013 will see the release of 2
media impressions for the promotion of
broke up over 30 years ago, its timeless
style. Creepy but fascinating.”
opportunities
include
Anchorman: The Legend Continues is the
16
Chevrolet
at
Email: info@merchantwise.com, Web: www.merchantwise.com
► B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
17
Peppa Pig achieves lift off
Peppa has been visiting various shopping
First Time in Australia
The success continues for hot pre-school
centres during school holidays for meet
Direct from London’s West End comes an
brand, Peppa Pig which has again rated
and greets and a 20 min non-ticketed
exciting new show starring Peppa Pig and
#1 for Australian kids in all time slots for
show. Meet & Greets and shows in 2012
all her family and friends. This exciting new
January. Peppa is also the #1 rated chil-
reached over 100K!. The response has
show features lifelike puppets, sing-along
dren’s show downloaded on ABC iView.
been overwhelming, with Peppa draw-
songs and a new story that will charm and
The popularity of the show was confirmed
ing a huge crowd of parents and children
delight all Peppa’s fans.
with Astley Baker Davies taking home their
from 0-5 years!
3rd consecutive Best Preschool Animation BAFTA Award for Peppa Pig!
Produced by Fiery Angel and presented 2013 is set to be a big year for this little pig
by Lifelike Touring, touring nationwide
with an indelible spirit. Additional catego-
throughout
2012 saw DVD sales grow by over 100%,
ries have freshly added to the already ex-
Peppa Pig and her friends are going on a
culminating in Hopscotch Entertainment
tensive product mix, including electronic
treasure hunt and need your help!
taking out the year’s industry award for
toys, role play toys, children’s patio furni-
Best Marketing Campaign for Children’s
ture, dolls prams and pushchairs, wooden
For licensing enquiries, please contract
Direct to Video for Peppa Pig at the Aus-
puzzles and board games, stationery,
Kerryn McCormack, Senior Account Man-
tralian Home Entertainment Distributors
bags, backpacks and luggage. Deals
ager, Merchantwise.
night of nights.
for partyware, paper products, greeting
Ph: +61 (3) 9520 1010
October
and
November,
cards, melamine and dinnerware, wheel Big Balloon plan to extend their current
toys and wooden toys are currently being
lines after launching Peppa Pig toys to
finalised as are major retail partnerships
a huge success while publishing partner
and events.
Penguin saw an incredible 250% sales growth for the year. Consequently, they have 18 more titles in the pipeline for 2013.
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
19
It’s all Looney Tunes in 2013
Scooby-Doo - with the functionality of a
The extensive WBCP offering for the Loon-
2013 will see many exciting developments
pillow. In 2013 Pillow Pets will focus on of-
ey Tunes property will also include support
for Looney Tunes, with significant crea-
fering fresh interpretations of these clas-
for the new episodes of the animated se-
tive content being launched across all
sic and beloved characters. The superior
ries The Looney Tunes Show, from Warner
categories in support of Classic Looney
quality of Pillow Pets and their character
Bros. Animation (WBA), on KidsWB on GO!,
Tunes, Vintage Looney Tunes, Looney
appeal mean kids will love cuddling up
Cartoon Network and Boomerang. The
Tunes Active! and The Looney Tunes Show.
with their Pillow Pet all through the night.
Looney Tunes characters will also continue
The successful Looney Tunes apparel lines
to appear at meet and greets and mall
will continue to grow with new styles and
A new publishing range will soon be avail-
designs debuting with leading retailers this
able in retail, featuring a wide range of
year.
Looney Tunes book formats, including sto-
For more information, please contact:
rybooks, colouring and activity books and
Rebecca Brownhill
novelty books.
PORTER NOVELLI
In FMCG, Parmalat brand Pauls is launching Tweety and Scooby-Doo branded
T +61 3 9289 9522
yoghurts on packaging at leading super-
Looney Tunes also continues to interact
markets.
with fans on iTunes. The Looney Tunes App, available on the App Store, allows users to
The Original Pillow Pets™ continue to be
select from the cast of cartoon comedy
a huge success. Available at Big W in a
greats and integrate them into digital life.
number of Looney Tunes and Scooby-Doo
Create customised personal art, listen to
characters, the hit soft toy combines the
signatures phrases, or use a photo frame
cute factor of some of the most loved
to share with friends on Facebook or e-
cartoon characters - Tweety, Bugs Bunny,
mail, and more.
Daffy Duck and Sylvester, along with
20
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
shows across Australian shopping centres.
rbrownhill@porternovelli.com.au
LICENSING INTERNATIONAL PTY. LTD.
Ben 10: Omniverse
Skylanders
Care Bears
Ben 10 is back with a new look, a new Om-
Activision’s
has
2013 is the 30th anniversary of the love-
nitrix, and a brand-new show. Get ready
reached new heights, officially surpassing
able Care Bears and an exciting new
for Ben 10: Omniverse!
the US$500 million mark in US retail sales &
range of Plush & Toys from Hasbro will be
Ben 10: Omniverse is ready to explode into
becoming the fastest kids gaming prop-
released in April.
2013 and beyond and is already rating #1
erty to accomplish such a feat.
The Care Bears are back in a brand new
in its time slot beating all other kids’ pro-
Skylanders Giants won the hotly con-
CGI animated series Care Bears: Wel-
grams on all channels.
tested 2012 ‘Toy of the Year’ from K-Zone
come to Care-a-Lot which launches on
magazine!
Channel 11 (Toasted TV) February 2013.
Skylanders
franchise
Adventure Time
SKYLANDERS SWAP FORCETM has been
Following on from the phenomenal suc-
announced! From the innovators who
Angry Birds
cess of the Adventure Time Toys R Us Toys
brought “Toys to Life” comes an entirely
The success of Angry Birds will continue
and the Jay Jay’s Apparel launch, there
new innovation – ‘Swapability’
throughout 2013 and beyond with excit-
will be an extensive consumer product
16 New Characters with Swappable Top
ing new development of the core classic
program roll-out throughout 2013.
and Bottom Halves can be customised
game as well as many other new and ex-
into more than 250 unique combinations,
citing ventures.
Regular Show
taking Skylanders and the “Toys to Life”
The Angry Birds brand is also expanding to
The Emmy award winning Regular Show
Category to a new level.
include an animation series! There are 52 x
is another Cartoon Network animated
Stellar HD Graphics deliver cinema-quality
3 minute episodes in development which
comedy, featuring Mordecai, a six-foot-
visuals and storytelling, immersing players
will be available on the Rovio channel on
tall blue jay and Rigby, a hyperactive rac-
in gameplay like never before.
YouTube from mid 2013.
coon, two best friends who turn their regular, boring jobs into exciting adventures. Toys will launch Easter 2013 at Toys R Us Australia, with mass-market toys and softlines programs to follow during the second half of 2013. Dinosaur Train Dinosaur Train is launching on free-to-air from Feb 2013 on Channel 11 (Toasted TV)! The launch is sure to take everyone’s favourite Dinosaurs to a whole new audience and further drive the consumer products program at retail. The Dinosaur Train website at www.pbskids.org/dinosaurtrain
has won the first
iKids award for best website preschool.
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
25
Monsuno
ment. This brand offers access to the
The Irwin Family & Australia Zoo
Monsuno continues to power into 2013,
elusive tween-to-teen girls market and is
2013 is set to be a big year for the Irwin
rating strongly on the Nickelodeon and
ideal for any fashion-based product line,
Family and Australia Zoo. Robert Irwin’s
Go! Channel and selling huge numbers of
from apparel through to tech accessories
brand new fictional series of books, Robert
the signature toy “The Core”. Monsuno airs
and crafts.
Irwin: Dinosaur Hunter will be out in March
in the primetime spot, 4.30pm weekdays.
at all leading book retailers. Follow the ad-
Ratings are on the increase, seeing over
Tree Fu Tom
20,000 new viewers on average per epi-
Tree Fu Tom was the highest rated pro-
ventures of Robert as he travels back to the time of the dinosaurs to meet these ex-
sode. The launch of new series ‘Combat
gramme on CBeebies in 2012 for
Chil-
citing and sometimes terrifying creatures.
Chaos’ will soon hit screens and shelves
dren 4-6 and
been nominated
Bindi has a new film, Nim’s Island 2: Return
combined bringing even more monsters
for twoBafta Awards,all in its first year of
to Nim’s Island, which premieres in April
and new gameplay. Outerwear, swim-
broadcast! With 18 UK licensees on board,
and her TV trivia show Bindi’s Bootcamp
wear, sleepwear and underwear will be
product rolling out this month, and two
continues to rate well on ABC3. Series 2 of
on shelf at Target from August, with further
new series in production, Tree Fu Tom is set
Steve Irwin’s Wildlife Warriors launches on
product lines such as posters, showbags,
to be the UK’s next big preschool brand.
the 23rd of February on Channel 10 and
carnival plush and lunchware now signed
Rating incredibly well in Australia on Dis-
Crocodile Hunter continues to run locally.
for release in 2013. Other key categories
ney Jr and launching on Channel 10 in
New programming releases are soon to
remain open for licensing, so get in fast
September, now is the time to jump on
be announced for both Robert and Bindi,
with this exciting new boys brand before
this opportunity for a fresh new preschool
so watch this space!
it’s too late!
brand to add to your roster.
has
Stardoll With over 165 million registered members, Stardoll is the #1 website for teen and tween girls worldwide. An online game and social experience based on creativity, fashion, friendship and fun, Stardoll offers young girls the opportunity to live out their fantasy life online in a safe environ-
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
27
Pac Man Classic
Target and Jay Jays and posters, novelty
Instruments: City of Bones and The End-
Named in the Guinness Book of World Re-
and jewellery products will be in store be-
less Summer, so please contact us for a
cords as “The Most Recognisable Video
fore the movie release. If you’re looking to
full catalogue of these great TV and Film
Game Character ”, Pac Man is the quin-
beam up your sales, licensed opportuni-
properties.
tessential retro gaming brand. One of
ties still exist for sleepwear, underwear,
the most profitable arcade games of all
tech accessories and more.
time, and now hugely popular in the App
For more information please contact: Liz Burnett
games marketplace, this is a brand with
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2
Director, Consumer Products
great heritage and great potential in 2013
One of the most successful kids films of
FremantleMedia Enterprises
and beyond. Licensing deals are in place
2009, with a worldwide box office of $245
+61 2 9434 0722
for outerwear, sleepwear, underwear and
million, Cloudy with a Chance of Meat-
Liz.Burnett@fremantlemedia.com
tech accessories, with product now at
balls is back with a mouth-watering se-
Myer and EB Games, however selected
quel! Out in cinemas locally on the 28th
opportunities are still available. If your
November 2013, the original voice cast
products are targeting the older teen and
and production team returns for a phe-
18 – 34 market, Pac Man is the brand to
nomenally fun food fight of epic pro-
watch.
portions. In Cloudy 2, giant “foodimals” become the stars! We are now signing
Space Invaders
partners for this brand, so come and see
Known as the ‘Smiley Face’ of gaming,
us – especially if your product is food re
the Space Invader is often used to rep-
lated, edible or scented!
resent the industry as a whole. The pop culture icon has invaded shelves at Kmart,
Classic & Cult
Myer and EB Games in 2012 with great sell
We have a huge range of retro brands on
through and has new product lines releas-
our roster, including Ghostbusters, Happy
ing into 2013. Targeting teens and adults
Days, Baywatch, Mighty Mouse, Melrose
18 – 34 years, licensing opportunities are
Place and more. We also look after cult
still available in some key categories so
brands such as Breaking Bad, The Mortal
now is the time to get on board. Star Trek With the release of the new JJ Abrams directed film Star Trek Into Darkness on 18th May 2013, and a huge resurgence in the Geek Chic market, Star Trek is set to Live Long and Prosper at retail. Star Trek is the #1 show on Foxtel’s Sci Fi Channel, and screens daily on Channel Eleven. Outerwear has had incredible sell through at
28
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
MENT THROUGH INDUSTRY-LEADING CUSTOMER SER VICE
FOREVER CLOVER – FOOTY CARDS FOR
Timeline:
er Clover… is the best thing to happen to
YOUNG GIRLS.
• Launched in Melbourne in May 2011
girls aged 6 up in ages’ Editor of The Good
Forever Clover is an exciting new brand,
• Series 2 swap cards released in May
Weekend, The Age/Sydney Morning Her-
which is based on the swap card phenomenon. It celebrates young girls and their friendships and challenges. Creator Leanne Howard, who is passionate about girls and their education, saw an opportunity in the market for a collec-
2012 • Sticker & Activity book launched in
under $25 category (girls) in K Zone and
December 2012 (Hardie Grant
Total Girls third annual toy survey (Decem-
Egmont)
ber 2012).
• 6 fiction novels to be launched by Hardie Grant Egmont on 24th
Leanne has appointed Talisman Licensing
April 2013
as her partner/agent for this brand.
tor product for young girls.
• Series 3 swap cards to be launched
There is a daily Forever Clover blog, which
• In discussions with leading TV produc
on 24th April 2013 is used to communicate with Forever Clo-
ald (29/9/2012). One of 3 winners in the
tion companies for launch in 2014
Come and speak to Daniel and Leanne about your opportunity with this property at the Melbourne Toy Fair on March 3.
ver club members and run competitions: http://www.foreverclover.com.au/blog/
Top 5 Categories for licensing:
Forever Clover is at STAND C18
• Stationery
All Licensing enquiries will be directed to:
Girls interact via the blog and all blog
• Apparel & Accessories
Talisman Licensing
posts are moderated. As a result of the
• Home-wares
Daniel Feller MD
blog, girls think of the 6 Forever Clover girls
• Toys, Games, Puzzles
Daniel@talismanlicensing.com
as real people.
• Quality Foods
0421 259 630 www.foreverclover.com.au
There are 6 lead character girls: Maddie,
What do they say!
Retail enquiries to be directed to Leanne
Emma, Abbey, Matilda, Kate and Olivia.
It’s Footy cards for girls, ‘We think… Forev-
Howard, leanne@foreverclover.com.au
30
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
31
Interview with Pete Bird, General
periences will continue to grow. Disney’s ability
ing new adventure in ‘The Ultimate Spider-
Manager, Licensing
to work with our licensees and retailers to deliver
Man’ – currently airing on Channel Seven and
The Walt Disney Company, Australia
unique and immersive experiences that speaks
already a ratings winner in Australia and around
directly to the consumer has seen continued
the globe; ‘Avengers Assemble’ and ‘Hulk and
strength and incremental growth right across all
the Agents of SMASH’ will also debut, establish-
our franchises.
ing an even greater engagement with Marvel
1.
Congratulations on the new role, tell me
about Disney’s licensing focus for 2013.
fans of all ages.
Thank you, I am humbled to be given the opportunity to lead the licensing team at Disney for
4.
Australia and New Zealand. We had a phenom-
the girls demographic, how do you hope to
6.
enal 2012, staying on top as the world’s largest
continue to build on that success without key
when will we hear more about Star Wars now
licensor and we hope to continue that success
theatrical support in 2013?
that the acquisition is complete?
into 2013. We have a lot to be excited about
Disney Princess and Disney Fairies success lies
We’re all excited about Star Wars, but it really is
and this year, there will be exceptionally strong
in their enduring stories, great characters and
too early to discuss anything further. The news of
Studio support with Disney, Marvel and Pixar ti-
the ability to resonate with little girls all over the
J.J. Abrams directing Star Wars: Episode VII, the
tles at the box-office with several key releases
world. In Australia, we’re particularly excited
first of a new series of Star Wars films to come
such as “Monster’s University”, “Planes” and
about our new campaign titled, “I Am A Prin-
from Lucasfilm since the acquisition is enough to
“Iron Man 3”.
cess”.
whet fans appetites’ so stay tuned!
The evergreen success of Mickey and Friends,
The campaign is a celebration of the Princess in-
especially with continued support on Disney
side every young girl, and champions the quali-
7. With your recent announcement of Disney In-
Channel through TV favourite, “Mickey Mouse
ties that make her one: kindness; compassion;
finity, how much of Infinity’s success will lie in the
Club House” and breakout hit “Minnie’s Bow
loyalty and bravery. We kicked off the cam-
execution of the toys?
Toons”, ensures that our number 1 franchise in
paign on February 9th, with the exclusive Disney
We are excited about Disney Infinity and the
Mickey remains strong and top-of-mind. Speak-
Princess Animation Festival screening and look-
endless game play and story possibilities. We
ing of Channels, the growth of Disney Junior’s
ing forward to next year when we release a new
know that our characters extend the appeal
new shows such as “Doc McStuffins” and the
feature-length animated feature film “Frozen”,
beyond those who play video games, so we are
on-going success of “Jake and the Neverland
we will introduce two brand-new Princesses to
confident fans everywhere will embrace it. We
Pirates” holds us in a strong position in the pre-
the Royal Court in 2014.
plan to continue building on the Disney Infinity
Disney has traditionally been stronger with
school sector.
Speaking of blockbuster boys franchises,
brand for years to come and will leverage the
In addition, the enduring appeal of the Disney
5.
Whilst I was at the Hong Kong Toy fair ear-
game’s advanced technology to create unique
Princess, Disney Fairies and for boys, new fresh
lier this year, there seemed to be a big push for
experiences for many of the company’s top
content from Marvel positions us strongly to de-
boys. Can you elaborate more on this and is
franchises in the future. Disney Infinity branded
liver a 365-day a year product opportunities for
Marvel meeting expectations 3 years into the
products will include interactive figures.
our licensees, retailers and consumers.
acquisition? We are excited about the boys space and with
8. What is the secret to Disney’s ongoing suc-
How do you think your background in con-
the theatrical release of “Planes” later this Sep-
cess?
sumer sales will benefit your new role? Every
tember, we have an opportunity to connect
Key to our success and what differentiates Dis-
year when I reflect on what has come before
with a popular play-pattern and a world that
ney is relevance and our ability to connect with
and what we have to look forward to, it always
takes place in our skies.
our consumers, licensees and retailers.
comes back to great storytelling. I say it all the
‘Planes’ is a natural follow-on from the phenom-
Our focus on building franchises and building
time, but even after 17 years at Disney, I have
enal success of Disney-Pixar’s Cars, which this
around the core brands of Disney, Pixar, Mar-
the best job in the world working with the world’s
year will see a wealth of new racing themed
vel and now Star Wars both resonate and add
best entertainment content and stories that re-
content planned and refreshed design pro-
value. Our primary objective in franchise devel-
ally touch people’s hearts.
grams to drive core ‘Cars’ business.
opment for many years has been to diversify our
At Disney, we have always emphasized the
2013 will also see the highly anticipated release
portfolio of franchises to connect with a broader
importance of the consumer experience. We
of ‘Iron Man 3’ with Robert Downey Jr. reprising
range of consumers.
have an immense opportunity to keep working
his role as the billionaire, playboy, philanthropist,
lock-step with our licensees and retailers to pro-
Tony Stark. The anticipation by Marvel fans is
9. Finally, what are you most excited about?
vide innovative products that consumers and
warranted, and the licensing business continues
For Licensing, definitely looking forward to work-
fans have come to expect from Disney and im-
to grow in every category from toy and apparel
ing more closely with our licensees and retailers.
mersive retail experiences that deliver a point of
to stationery and publishing.
We look forward to working with our licensees to
difference.
We are buoyed by the support of a strong televi-
provide innovative products and working with
sion line-up which sees Marvel being present on
our strong consumer sales team on providing im-
3. What are some key trends you see emerging?
the small-screen, 365 days a year. Three exciting
mersive retail solutions that really deliver a point
I think the desire and need for personalized ex-
new animated TV series will debut in 2013 includ-
of “Disney” difference.
2.
32
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
HASBRO 2013 highlights
Studios, airs on Cartoon Network and is
TRANSFORMERS Facebook page at www.
From toys to games, television program-
seen by kids and fans in over 170 countries
Facebook.com/Transformers.
ming and motion pictures, video games
around the world. The beasts, comprised
and publishing, not forgetting its compre-
of a new TRANSFORMERS faction called
MY LITTLE PONY
hensive licensing programmes, Hasbro
the PREDACONS, are led by one of the
The MY LITTLE PONY franchise continues
is using all of the assets at its disposal to
most imposing and powerful characters
to be a worldwide favourite with fans of
leverage its brands further in the coming
in the TRANSFORMERS world — PREDAK-
all ages, largely energized by the global
12 months.
ING. “In recent years, TRANSFORMERS
popularity of the MY LITTLE PONY FRIEND-
Chris Gray, Managing Director Hasbro
fans have seen the AUTOBOTS battle the
SHIP IS MAGIC animated series, produced
Australia & New Zealand states, “Hasbro’s
DECEPTICONS,” said Aaron Archer, Vice
by Hasbro Studios. The extensive MY LITTLE
Branded Play vision is fully operational,
President of TRANSFORMERS Brand Crea-
PONY merchandising program reaches
with all of the company working together
tive and Design. “The PREDACON fac-
across all major categories including ap-
to provide fully immersive experiences for
tion, made up of menacing beasts that
parel, publishing, home entertainment,
the consumer across the firm’s key fran-
convert in ways mankind has never seen,
toys and accessories with new ranges re-
chises, and also to unlock opportunities for
have now joined the DECEPTICONS to
leased throughout 2013.
our retail partners. In the past few years,
take down the AUTOBOTS. We’re looking
Girls of all ages will adore discovering the
we’ve taken our brands to places people
forward to exploring this new dynamic in
whimsical world of pony friends in 2013 as
didn’t think possible and we will continue
the animation, action figures, KRE-O build-
we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the
to drive the reach of our brands.”
ing sets, publishing and more.”
brand with significant retail statements,
With strong marketing programmes and
continued partnership with Hoyts for the-
cohesive brand statements that translate
Hasbro will continue to provide its broad
atrical releases and the introduction of
across categories and products, Hasbro is
TRANSFORMERS fan base with high value,
the “Build-A-Bear” collection from April
confident that it offers all the fun for kids
age-appropriate licensed merchandise
2013.
and families anywhere, anytime.
across categories such as digital gam-
also “make friends” with MY LITTLE PONY
ing, including an exciting new MMO from
on Facebook , Twitter and YouTube for ex-
TRANSFORMERS
Jagex scheduled for release in 2013, toys,
clusive updates, product reveals, promo-
Hasbro’s iconic TRANSFORMERS brand has
apparel, publishing, sporting goods and
tions and more.
become one of the most successful en-
more. For older fans, look for a “THRILLING
tertainment franchises of the 21st century
30” themed promotion to support TRANS-
FURBY
and features the heroic AUTOBOTS and
FORMERS GENERATIONS as we move into
A global phenomenon following its 1998
the villainous DECEPTICONS engaged
the 30th anniversary of the TRANSFORM-
debut and one of 2012’s hottest toys, the
in an epic battle on multiple storytelling
ERS franchise from September.
FURBY is an evolved, interactive friend
platforms including film, television, digital
Fans of the beloved brand can
with ‘A MIND OF ITS OWN’ and advanced
gaming and theme parks.
To see the TRANSFORMERS PRIME BEAST
technology that gives each FURBY an un-
TRANSFORMERS PRIME BEAST HUNTERS will
HUNTERS brand trailer, visit the TRANS-
predictable nature that will continue to
be the touchstone for TRANSFORMERS
FORMERS Youtube channel at www.You-
delight and surprise children and fans of
brand entertainment in 2013 driven by the
tube.com/Transformers.
Fans can also
all ages. The FURBY party kicks into high
award winning TRANSFORMERS PRIME ani-
keep up with the latest news from the
gear in 2013 with the introduction a licens-
mated series which is produced by Hasbro
TRANSFORMERS brand
ing program t hat spans key categories
on
the official
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
35
● from apparel to stationery, home decor,
ing Blythe and her friends to adopt, take
in the MONOPOLY Save Your Token cam-
party goods, food and beverage and
care of and entertain cute little pets!
paign on Facebook. This hugely successful
promotions.
campaign resulted in millions of votes from
The magic of FURBY continues online
As one of the hottest licensed lifestyle
185 countries around the world – bidding
throughout 2013 - For FURBY fun, kids can
properties among tweens, LITTLEST PET
farewell to the “iron” and introducingthe
visit Furby.com to discover FURBY videos,
SHOP brand’s global licensing program
“cat” token for 2013.
design a virtual FURBY, learn FURBISH and
has licensees across all major categories
In addition, after a thirteen-year hiatus,
more. For additional interactive FURBY
at retail including apparel, accessories,
Hasbro & McDonald’s were proud to an-
fun, owners can download the free FURBY
publishing and digital gaming. Fans of
nounce the return of one of its most popu-
app to their iOS or Android devices. New
the LITTLEST PET SHOP brand will delight in
lar games, MONOPOLY at McDonald’s.
features that interact with FURBY will be
following the adventures of BLYTHE BAX-
The famous game returned to restaurants
added to the app throughout the year.
TER and her pet friends in the “Littlest Pet
on 30th January when McDonald’s be-
Fans can also keep up with FURBY’s latest
Shop” animated series, created by Has-
came the first business in Australia to ac
adventures on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr,
bro Studios.
cept MONOPOLY game money for one
Pinterest, YouTube and Instagram
day only! With over $90 million in prizes
LITTLEST PET SHOP
TONKA With 98 percent brand awareness and more than 250 million trucks sold since its
The LITTLEST PET SHOP brand started from
launch in 1947, it is clear why the TONKA
a line of collectible pets aimed at tween
brand is synonymous with durability.
girls aged 7-9 and their zeal for nurturing
65-year old brand remains the rite of pas-
NERF
and collecting and has evolved into a
sage for every young boy, and even more
New N-strike Elite blasters bring you more
global franchise. Tweens simply can’t get
exciting TONKA fuelled adventures are on
fun, action and excitement for you and
enough of these quirky, cute and lovable
the near horizon through a licensing pro-
your friends. Nerf Elite is the latest in blast-
pets and the accompanying LITTLEST PET
gram with Funrise, distributed by Hunter
er technology firing darts further than any
SHOP playsets and accessories that make
Products, that will bring to market a new
original N-Strike blaster – up to an astound-
the experience complete. In 2013, the be-
range of TONKA vehicles and playsets.
ing 20M. The full core range launched in
loved brand becomes a little sweeter with
This will be supported with a licensing pro-
Early Feb. In addition, Hasbro’s licensee
the introduction of the SWEETEST LITTLEST
gram including apparel, publishing, sport-
partners will be bringing out a range of
PET SHOP pets theme.
ing goods and toys.
high performance Elite blaster accesso-
and a significant media campaign – MONOPOLY is all about giving fans new ways to play and win it all!
The
This year, tweens can also take their LIT-
ries. These will include electronics, sporting
TLEST PET SHOP collection with them every-
MONOPOLY
goods and wheeled toys. Get ready to
where with the free LITTLEST PET SHOP app!
Whether you dream of being a business
blast because its Nerf or Nothin’
Fans can scan a unique Pet Collector
mogul, building a five-star hotel or adding
token found in each Sweetest LITTEST PET
a new token to the classic game, Hasbro
SHOP product in order to virtually collect
has a MONOPOLY gaming experience for
the pets they’ve purchased.
Based on
you! The brand kicked off 2013 by rally-
the popular and adorable toy franchise,
ing fans around the world to save their fa
the LITTLEST PET SHOP app. has you help-
vourite game token from being replaced
feature articles × head start story ugly doll food for thought
36
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
38 40 42
7
2 0 1 3
37
Looney Tunes - A Brand with Character –
highest reaching series on Boomerang in
industry, “As we like to describe as ‘ev-
Coming to a Toy Aisle Near You
2012. It ranked #2 on weekends on GO!,
ergreen’,” said Hendy. “For us, our ever-
Funny, smart and unpredictable, the
achieving above a 20 share.
green brands are those that have proven
Looney Tunes are pop culture legends
broad appeal and have the potential to
with broad global appeal. For decades,
“We are excited to launch a comprehen-
be in our portfolio for the next 5 years –
the cherished characters have delighted
sive range at retail that will be supported
and Looney Tunes is a prime example.”
audiences worldwide and established
with TV advertising, which we are sure will
themselves as authentic global entertain-
capture the eyes of fans of all ages as
ment icons.
we share our new long term brand,” said Hendy.
This reputation has inspired the Headstart team, Australia’s 5th largest toy company,
The Looney Tunes story began in the studio
who will be launching a full line of Looney
building called “Termite Terrace”, named
Tunes toys in the Australian market later
by the energetic and funny young anima-
this year.
tors, writers, directors, voice actors and composers who produced over 1300 car-
“Looney Tunes have always been a treas-
toon shorts, famous for their high-speed,
ured gem for the toy companies chasing
slapstick humour and identifiable stars.
long term brands. The characters have
Within a few years, Looney Tunes became
The Looney Tunes only get bigger and
such heritage throughout the world, and
the most popular theatrical cartoons ever,
bigger. They have held their place with
in Australia, we’re excited to fill the toy
bringing to life an array of timeless char-
live-action movie stars across genera-
aisles with these beloved characters once
acters.
tions, and won four Academy Awards®
again,” said Headstart Director, Andrew
(from 21 nominations). They have been
Hendy.
acclaimed in audience polls, studied for academic papers, placed in the AFI Na-
The Looney Tunes are the premiere collec-
tional Film Registry and honoured with
tion of hyperactive wise guys who say and
postage stamps. Today, they’re star of the
do what everyone else wishes they could
symphony, numerous best-selling DVD col-
say and do. The Looney Tunes are auto-
lections, 3D theatrical cartoons, feature
matically associated with Bugs Bunny (TV
films, amusement park rides, a robust con-
Guide’s #1 Favourite Cartoon Character
sumer products business, a healthy-living
of All Time) and his legion of lively costars.
campaign and a hit television animated
From Bugs’s cool street smarts and Daffy’s
series. Everyone knows the Looney Tunes.
manic ego to Pepe Le Pew’s obsessive amour and Wile E. Coyote’s stubborn
The all-new Looney Tunes toy line will de-
(and painful) unwillingness to quit, these
but at Headstart’s stand during the Mel-
qualities reflect people we know or are.
bourne Toy Fair, stand number A01.
Headstart has assembled a strong line of
For more information, please contact:
figurines and plush, including an exciting
Rebecca Brownhill
Bugs Bunny feature item, to be supported
PORTER NOVELLI
by TV advertising.
T +61 3 9289 9522 rbrownhill@porternovelli.com.au
Fans won’t want to miss the Looney Tunes as WBCP also continues to support The
Andrew Hendy
Looney Tunes Show, which had the high-
Over the past 5 years, Headstart has built
Headstart International
est program transmission on Boomerang
its core business across a stable portfolio
Telephone: +61 3 9862 9601
in 2012 for Total People and was the 2nd
of highly recognisable brands in the toy
E-mail: andrew@headstartint.com
38
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s13)
UGLY DOLL BUGG TOYS & LICENSING RECENTLY SAT DOWN WITH ALITA FRIEDMAN (CHIEF UGLY) TO DISCUSS UGLY DOLL AND ITS HERITAGE, FUTURE PLANS AND LATEST NEWS ON THE BACK OF THE PLUSH LINE RELEASE HERE IN AUSTRALIA BY JASNOR.
1. Could you give us a brief rundown on the history of Uglydoll and it’s creators, David Horvath and Sun-Min Kim, for those who don’t know about the brands heritage?
4. Can you give us a brief rundown on the performance of Uglydoll in the North American market, in terms of units sold and the number of retailers you have?
David Horvath and Sun-Min Kim were students together at Par-
We sold UGLYDOLL to literally thousands of accounts…by 2009
sons School of Design in New York City. When Sun-Min returned
we were probably in over 10,000 accounts…the specialty market
to Korea in 2001, David wrote her love letters and signed them
shrunk since then for economic reasons but it’s still a healthy and
with a little orange character illustrated. Sun-Min sewed a plush
growing market.
version of the little character as a sweet gift for David and this became the first UGLYDOLL® called Wage™. This love story continues as the couple married and continues to work on new UGLYDOLL creations.
5. Can you tell us a little bit about the licensing program for Uglydoll in the North American market? Licensing for our brand is fairly new…we have over 25 licenses
2. Obviously Uglydoll has been widely successful in the North American market. Can you tell us how you have managed the growth of Uglydoll in North America?
now that range from Party Goods to tee shirts. Most of the product is just going to hit retail this year. The product has such a fun flavour to it and it is really amazing to see it all come to life. Licensing all started with our Book series in North America and
Sales in North America started at a small pop culture store called
our classic tin toys from Schylling. We are now embarking on our
Giant Robot. We then attended Toy Fair in NYC and started
International Licensing programs and are signing up partners to
The celebrity factor always brings excitement as both our fans
Universal Studios Illumination has the rights to turn UGLYDOLL into
to open really great accounts with lots of cache’ such as Bar-
work on the property all over Asia, Europe, South America and
and theirs like to see them in pictures. When Kim Kardashian and
an animated Feature Film. The script is being written now and we
ney’s NY, FAO Schwarz and Tower Records. We attended the
Australia.
Kanye West were caught on camera buying UGLYDOLL in New
look forward to some big announcements in the not so distant
York recently it became a NEWS frenzy and made the tabloids.
future. Universal has also secured digital rights to make our apps
San Diego Comic Convention known worldwide as ‘Comic-Con’ and sold a doll a minute for five days straight! We knew we had something great. With the addition of great accounts in all of the major metropolitan areas we were off and running. Stores well known from Kitson to Nordsrom became our retail base.
3. By keeping Uglydoll within the independent segment of the market, it seems that the brand has been able to maintain a good level of exclusivity. Was this always the plan?
and games so expect big things ahead. 6. Uglydoll has gained a great level of popularity in a wide range of age groups, and consumers are very loyal to the brand. What is it about Uglydoll that has led to its popularity with so many consumers? Well everyone likes a little humour in their life so we are able to appeal to boys/girls, men /women. All you have to do is look at the characters and read their bios and if you get that little inner voice laughing you clearly understand what we’re all about.
We always kept the brand specialty…this was in order to fulfill our
to do and has never been done before…we were always doing the unexpected and it takes creativity, passion and patience.
40
Social media is certainly huge these days and many companies are using it for marketing. We have a very organic natural following and allow fans to find us on Facebook and Twitter. We just started putting up hilarious
THANKS FOR GIVING ME THIS OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK TO AUSTRALIA!!!! Your fan, Alita (Chief Ugly) For more information on Ugly Doll in Australia, please contact Jasnor on (03) 9562 9900 or email at enquiry@jasnor.com
shorts on Vine…little 6 second video clips.
dreams of pitching animation to Hollywood and future licensing to create amazing product lines for our characters. It was tough
8. You currently have a good following on Facebook for Uglydoll, is social media something that you have used to build the brands popularity or plan to use in the future?
7. There have been a number of celebrity involvements involving Uglydoll. Has the celebrity involvement been important to the brands rising popularity, or do you see this as an added bonus?
9. There has been talk of an Uglydoll movie in the future, is this something we can look forward to?
► B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
41
FOOD for
thought The Australian Toy Hobby and Nursery Fair
particularly around back to school timing.
is a powerful reminder of the enormous
Off location displays at Woolworths in-
breadth of licenses available in our mar-
cluded stacked boxes of cookies in a bulk
ket. Hundreds of brands appealing to all
40 pack, featuring Disney Princesses, An-
demographics, some Australian made
gry Birds, Moshi Monsters and Smurfs. The
but most originating from across of globe.
same licenses were featured on sandwich
Theatricals, TV, music, sporting, celebrity,
containers with cookies inside.
lifestyle gaming and now a great deal of emerging licenses based on apps and
In addition to those seasonal drops, some
YouTube sensations! We often hear about
other notable entries to the supermarket
new and exciting licenses promised to
home aisles include:
be ‘the next BIG thing!’ Or older classic brands revived to suit today’s market.
- Scooby-Doo and Tweety yoghurts
Then there are those brands that just keep
- Moshi Monsters frozen dairy/fruit packs
on keeping on, they are consistent and
licensee intro ×
and yoghurts
have seen many Toy Fairs. It can be over-
- Looney Tunes apples and pears
whelming, but it is also a friendly reminder
- Mickey and Minnie Mouse yoghurts
of the exciting industry that we are in!
- Ben 10 and Lalaloopsy bubble bath - Winnie the Pooh avocados
I believe that there is no bigger compliment for a license than to be seen on the supermarket shelf. One would argue that
- Scooby-Doo and SpongeBob Iddy Biddy Fruit Bits - SpongeBob, Ben 10, Dora the Explorer,
with much longer product development
Cars, Disney Princesses, Hello Kitty,
lead times, ruthless buyers and smaller
Peppa Pig and Spiderman celebration
shelf space, there is greater importance
cakes
in choosing a strong and durable long lasting license. There is also a much more
It is great to see such a strong line up of
limited amount of licensing in the FMCG
FMCG product in our supermarkets and
category compared to traditional licens-
hopefully licensors and licensees can con-
ing areas, so the choice of license is cru-
tinue to build the category.
cial and can make or break a product of which suppliers have spent years and mil-
Wishing everyone a fun and successful Toy
lions of dollars developing.
Fair!
Over the last few months there has been increased license activity in Supermarkets,
42
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
B U G G
×
F E B R U A R Y
2 0 1 3
43
◦
MJM RESINATE A POSITIVE OUTLOOK ON
They have even developed their own Fur-
2013
by stationery range, proving that they are
Fast approaching 50 years in the toy busi-
serious about this category.
ness, MJM is looking positively at 2013. Marcel Levy who is Jacques partner and With a solid market-leading heritage in li-
Director of Operations at MJM also com-
censed games and puzzles they continue
mented, “ I get the feeling that Xmas
to project a portfolio of brands, which
2013 was pretty good and that retailers
command attention.
are better placed than last year. We are fortunate to have a solid line full of global
Stand out brands for the coming year in-
brands, which we believe retailers are
clude:
looking for.
• Monsters University from Disney • Planes from Disney
More exciting news from MJM centers on
• LalaLoopsy form MGA/Haven
the launch of a brand new website.
Their innovation from a design and format
www.mjm-australia.com
standpoint has seen their products dominate a significant part of this category for
“We are so excited about this new initia-
over 20 years.
tive in our business said Marcel’. The new site will provide a new and fresh dimen-
They will also launch a second-generation
sion to our business in terms of up to date
version of the game Big Bag Theory from
product and services information includ-
the TV show this year.
ing certain social media platforms. “We hope it will become a destination for our
Jacques Levy who is the MD of MJM/
customers where they can learn a lot
Crown products commented: “I am very
more about our company and products. “
optimistic about 2013 because we have worked hard to develop a very strong brand and product portfolio which includes many global brands. MJM have recently moved into the Licensed Stationery category and are already a significant player leading off with ranges including: • Angry Birds • One Direction • Furby
44
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
»
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
45
After a hectic 2012 in the children’s licens-
every day ranges in the categories of
scales, shampoo and conditioner, bubble
ing arena, Licensing Essentials has been
Drinkware, Lunch Bags, Key rings and Gift
bath, cuddly bandages and the list goes
busy with further brand acquisitions includ-
so customers will be spoilt for choice.
on. The start of 2013 saw a very successful
ing Care Bears, Monsuno and Despicable
back to school program being launched
Me 2. Building on the huge success of their
Skylanders has sold over 100 million toys
through Coles supermarket, Angry Birds
other children’s licenses Skylanders, Angry
worldwide in the last 15 months. With more
will continue to remain strong throughout
Birds, DC Originals, Superman, Looney
exciting news to be announced shortly,
the rest of 2013 with product placement
Tunes, Scooby-Doo and Ben 10, 2013 is set
the Skylanders franchise is sure to remain
across multiple category specialists na-
to be another monster year for LE.
as the number one boys brand in 2013
tionally.
and beyond. 2013 will see Licensing Essentials working
There is no doubt Licensing Essentials has
with its key retail partners on executing
With the most eagerly anticipated Block-
the hottest children’s licenses for 2013 so
an exciting range of new and innovative
buster Movie for 2013, Man of Steel, Licens-
watch this space for more exciting news!
products.
ing Essentials has been working eagerly with its retail partners on a comprehen-
For further information, please contact:
With the phenomenal success of Sky-
sive program covering key categories of
Scott Bingley – Managing Director
landers Giants, Licensing Essentials re-
homewares, drinkware and giftware. With
Email: scott@licensingessentials.com.au
leased a range of interactive and innova-
the movie release in Q3, this will lead into
Wendy Long – Marketing Manager
tive plush lines through major retailers such
the key season of Father’s Day and Christ-
Email: wendy@licensingessentials.com.au
as Target, Big W, Toys”R”Us and EB Games.
mas so expect to see our favourite super
The Portal of Power plush has been a key
hero everywhere.
seller over the Christmas season proving to
Licensing Essentials Pty. Ltd. 800 Wellington Road, Rowville, Vic 3178, Australia
be a top gift for boys. This year will see the
Angry Birds is another exciting property
Tel: (613) 9754 0754
launch of new Skylanders Giants charac-
that has been at the forefront of retail.
Fax: (613) 9755 8706
ters in the key plush line of Portal of Power
With new apps being launched daily, An-
plush, Collectibles, bag clips and Giant in-
gry Birds remains the undisputed number
teractive plush. Each product has unique
one mobile game in the world! Australia
light up and/or talking capabilities and is
ranks in the top 5 countries with the most
sure to provide hours of fun!
downloads so it is no coincidence that Angry Birds is selling through in record num-
Another exciting product launch for Sky-
bers in every retail market nationally. As
landers will be a novelty range of sta-
a key partner to the Angry Birds program,
tionery. A key seller will be the puzzle
Licensing Essentials will have a new and
eraser with practicality and collectabil-
exciting range of products out in retail for
ity. Amongst the range will be fun tape,
2013. One new category will be personal
clicker pens, flingers, pencil toppers and a
/ smart care with discussions underway for
collector’s edition of erasers. With over 40
key retail partners, this will be launched in
characters available in Skylanders Giants,
the second half of 2013. Products in this
Licensing Essentials will be updating its
range include flax seed pillows, bathroom
46
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
BIG BALLOON
The Hottest New Product from the Fastest
favourite hero Fireman Sam, these two
took $540 million worldwide and is cur-
success of Cars as well as the hype and
Growing Toy Company
key preschool brands are proving a fiery
rently ranked 10 highest animated film in
excitement around the launch of Planes.
success with retailers.
US history beating the likes of Toy Story 1 &
Retailers continue to fly high with some
2, Cars, Happy Feet and Ice Age.
The ever growing portfolio of Big Balloon
of the latest products and hottest brands
Peppa Pig is fast becoming the hottest
brands would not be complete without a
from Big Balloon. From the number one
girls pre-school brand in Australia, rat-
Despicable Me 2 is set to be even bigger,
global plush manufacturer Ty to ever-
ing as the number 1 TV show for children
better and funnier than the original and
green preschool brands Fireman Sam and
aged 0-4. In 2013 Peppa Pig’s toy range
will launch in Australia on the 27th of June,
Cutie Pops are the hottest new fashion
Peppa Pig or new movie properties Des-
will continue to grow with the launch of
with toys available in the market from the
doll on the scene! What makes Cutie Pops
picable Me 2; retailers are enjoying the
new items- Peppa Pig’s flip phone, Peppa
1st of May.
so unique are their ‘Pops’ which allow you
wide offering that Big Balloon has brought
Pig jumping in Muddy Puddles and a new
to the toy aisles.
range of collectible Ty Peppa Pig Plush.
brand new range of fashion dolls.
to customise each dolls outfit, hair and acTo add to the excitement of Despica-
cessories.
ble Me 2, Big Balloon will launch an excitThe global Ty plush craze has hit Australian
Fireman Sam was the #3 preschool toy li-
ing range of new toys which features talk-
Cutie Pops have been inspired by every-
shores and is selling out across the retail
cense in 2012 and will grow from strength
ing minions, collectible figures, fart guns
thing girls love such as hearts, rainbows,
market. From gorgeous big eyed animals
to strength in 2013 with the launch of series
and a range of plush using state of the art
sweets, parties, surprises and more! The
to crazy Monstaz with secret messages,
9 and the launch of a new range of toys.
technology in toys.
line allows girls to express their own style
the Ty range is capturing children and
The bestselling range of Fireman Sam ve-
collectors of all ages. Selling over 500,000
hicles will see two new additions with the
This brand new range of toys will offer re-
units across the range last year, 2013 is
launch of a new 4 x 4 vehicle and Bessie
tailers a chance to share in the worldwide
set to be even bigger with the launch of
the fire Engine.
success of Despicable Me which is fast
Launching in 2012 to huge critical success
becoming a property that will continue to
in the USA, Cutie Pops will POP into the
develop and thrive for years to come
Australian retail landscape in March with
brand new designs in the Beanie Boos
with unique “style pops” that are fun, easy
and Monstaz range; ensuring customers
Key screening times combined with an
have a new reason to come into store
outstanding new line up of toys will see
and collect their favourite new Ty Beanie.
Sam continue to hold rein as one of the
From the world above Cars, comes Planes
to use, collect and share.
three dolls, Candi, Chiffon and Cookie.
top boys preschool properties and one for
one of the hottest new properties we will
Cutie Pops are merchandised in gorgeous
Ty Boos and Monstaz are merchandised
retailers to jump on board with to share in
see in 2013. Planes is set to take off in Aus-
heart shaped box and are sure to stand
on a 4 tier spinner, which takes up a small
the success.
tralia in September with an international
out on shelves and catch the eyes and
cast in an action packed comedy starring
hearts of all girls!
footprint of retail floor space and is sure to be your best sales return by square me-
2013 sees the launch of some hot new
Dusty, a small town dreamer who longs to
ter! With over 50 designs in each of the Ty
children movie properties that are set to
enter the most epic around-the-world air
Big Balloon’s small and passionate team
ranges don’t miss the opportunity to be a
dominate the market this year and be-
race … despite his fear of heights.
strive to launch, build and foster brands in
part of one of the hottest new collectible
yond.
plush crazes.
today’s ever growing and changing marBig Balloon will launch a range of remote
ket. With an extensive array of product
The Despicable Me team are back for
control and flying planes featuring favour-
across many key categories, Big Balloon
Two preschool brands continue to domi-
more fun, more minions and more mad-
ite characters Dusty and El Chupacabra.
will feature some of the best and brightest
nate the preschool toy aisles, from jump-
ness in Despicable Me 2.
The range will be cross promoted with a
new properties in 2013.
ing in muddy puddles with Peppa Pig or saving the town of Pontypandy with our
new collection of Cars RC vehicles offerAt the box office in 2010 Despicable Me
ing retailers a chance to leverage the
Contact Details: Contact Big Balloon on 03 9020 1358 or
50
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
►
visit www.bigballoon.com.au
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
51
* LIMA AUSTRALIA LIMA Australia attends the Melbourne
7.30pm. We look forward to seeing you
entering the industry and for senior execu-
Toy Fair
there.
tives.
LIMA Australia continues to work closely
We can now announce that we have two
with the ATA. This year for the first time we
official sponsors of our event, Wild Pump-
We are also pleased to announce that the
will be exhibiting at the fair, where we will
kin with thanks to their partners: CARE
Global President of LIMA, Charles Riotto,
be meeting with many companies who
BEARS, CABBAGE PATCH, DINOSAUR TRAIN
will be travelling to Australia this year. We
have a vested interest in Licensing.
AND SKYLANDERS and Dependable Solu-
would be more than happy to introduce
tions; specialist IT and licensing software
him to you and discuss the LIMA organiza-
globally.
tion at the LIMA stand at the fair.
Our sincere thanks to them all.
Please come and visit us at stand E12.
Bugg Toys & Licensing sign Exclusive Part-
readers,” says Steven Ekstract, group pub-
new and recently launched Bugg Toys &
We can now welcome Headstart Inter-
nership with License! Global
lisher, License! Global.
Licensing website at www.buggtoysandli-
national and Skinner Advertising Services
censing.com.
as new members. We hope to announce more new members during the fair.
License! Global, the world’s leading pub-
The content sharing agreement will allow
lication and news source for brand licens-
License! Global and Bugg Toys & Licensing
A special button will highlight Bugg Toys &
ing and retail merchandising executives,
the opportunity to provide greater visibility
Licensing and news on Australia and New
We are excited to be running another
year with new Webinar opportunities and
Zealand on the License! Global site. Con-
LIMA networking event this year at the
a survey on developing a series of courses
versely, Bugg Toys & Licensing will publish
Hilton South Wharf. It will kick off at 6pm
and
providing Australia and New Zealand with
various news articles from License! Global.
on Sunday the 3rd of March from 6 pm –
Licensing. This will focus both on those just
a better understanding of what is hap-
The agreement includes online, social me-
pening in the rest of the world.
dia and print.
and Australia’s prominent Bugg Toys & Licensing, have announced a content sharing agreement. The agreement gives both parties the op-
of the Australian and New Zealand markets to North America and Europe while
We intend to take more steps ahead this
conferences
revolving
around
portunity to extend their reach and offer their readers breaking news and trend in-
We are really looking forward to working
sights about the brand licensing business.
with License! Global,” says Tony Bugg,
The alliance will further extend the interna-
publisher of Australia’s Bugg Toys & Licens-
tional reach of License! Global into Aus-
ing. “The strength and reach of their pub-
tralia and New Zealand and allow Bugg
lication, combined
Toys & Licensing the capacity to deliver its
capability, including Licensing Expo in Las
territory news to a global audience.
Vegas and BLE in London, will unlock vast
“License! Global is excited about this con-
opportunity for the licensing community
tent alliance because it extends our reach
locally.”
into Australia and New Zealand, thereby
The agreement will be effective from
allowing us to provide vital information
February 1 and will coincide with the re-
about the licensing business in these im-
launch of the License! Global website at
portan territories to our current global
www.licensemag.com as well as the
54
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
with
their
event
►
×
B U G G
×
e d i t i o n
7
2 0 1 3
55
License! Global
MAY 2012
VOLUME 15
NUMBER 02
Kathy Ireland Super Brand Plus:
Q Licensing Expo Preview Q Zodiak Rights’ Jennifer Lawlor Q A Look at MIPTV
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON LIMA AUSTRALIA, PLEASE CONTACT: Tony Bugg, Managing Director Bugg Marketing Solutions +61 3 9769 3963 +61 418 321 837 tony@buggsolutions.com.au
Exclusive: Top 125 Global Licensors ®
From supermodel fame and a simple line of socks, Kathy Ireland has built a lifestyle licensing empire ranging from weddings to windows.
MAY 2012
FIND WHAT YOU WANT
EXCLUSIVE: TOP 125 GLOBAL LICENSORS
BUY WHAT YOU WANT
License! Global
. .
SELL WHAT YOU HAVE
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
The licensing industry’s comprehensive network of Property Information and Licensing Professionals online.
WWW.LIMANET.COM .
VOLUME 15
NUMBER 1 ®
WARNER BROS. CONSUMER PRODUCTS
learn more about limanet - lima’s opportunity network
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012
Plus:
Q Hot Toys Around the Globe Q Celebrity Glitter Still Shines Q Nelvana’s New Brand Leader
With an extensive new content portfolio, Warner Bros. Consumer Products is leveraging its super power and synergy to expand toys worldwide.