Royaltie$, June 2013

LICENSE TO SHELL!

• #1 NEW BOY SERIES ON TV WITH B2-11 IN 2012 AND 2013 YTD1 • #2 NEW ACTION FIGURE PROPERTY 2 • NEW TV CONTENT COMMITTED THROUGH 2015 • MAJOR MOTION PICTURE FROM PARAMOUNT AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCER MICHAEL BAY IN JUNE 2014

CONTACT US licensing and retail information contact:

consumermarketing@nick.com

International licensing information contact:

nickinternationalcp@nick.com

1

NMR, most current, 2012 (12/26/11-12/30/12) and 2013 (12/31/12-4/28/13), minimum 4 telecasts 2 For 1Q 2013; Source: NPD US Tracking Service 1Q 2013 ©2013 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Untitled-9 1

5/22/2013 3:37:31 PM

JUNE 2013

Vol. 8, No. 3

Features

26 MORE BANG FROM YOUR ANGRY BIRD:

BUILDING BRANDS IN THE GAMING INDUSTRY

by Jeff McKinney

28 VIDEO GAME LICENSING:

PRODUCT PRESENTATION

by Jeff McKinney

30 THE CHANGING FACE OF THE OUTDOORSMEN

by Jennifer Lynch

32 OUTDOOR AND SPORTING GOODS LICENSING: PRODUCT PRESENTATION

by Jennifer Lynch

34 TRENDS IN LICENSING

by Nancy Lombardi

36 LICENSING SHOW 2013:

PRODUCT PRESENTATION

by Jennifer Lynch

Departments 12

Observations & Opinions

20

Real Deal

14 24 70 74

The TICKER

Royaltie$ Marketplace:

National Football League You’re Hired

Calendar of Events

ON THIS PAGE FROM THE TOP: SNOOPY FROM PEANUTS WORLDWIDE; CUPCAKES & CASHMERE FROM BRAND CENTRAL; VALEN GROUP’S FAZOLI’S LICENSED FOOD LINE; DOWNTON ABBEY FROM KNOCKOUT LICENSING; SKYLANDERS SWAP FORCE FROM ACTIVISION; NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE; BUSHNELL WOMEN’S PROHUNTER SERIES SNAKE BOOTS ON THE COVER FROM LEFT: MATTEL MAN OF STEEL SUPERMAN MOVIE MASTER ACTION FIGURE; ELVIS ALOHA BOBBLEHEAD FROM ROYAL BOBBLES; BRAND CENTRAL’S PEE-WEE HERMAN; THE WIGGLES; SABAN BRAND’S POWER RANGERS MEGA FORCE; THE JIM HENSON COMPANY'S DINOSAUR TRAIN; NBC UNIVERSAL’S MR MONK HELPS HIMSELF FROM PENGUIN GROUP; PENGUIN LOGO; THE WORLD OF ERIC CARLE’S THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR REPRESENTED BY THE JOESTER LORIA GROUP; SPROUT’S CHICA FROM THE CHICA SHOW; ZODIAK KIDS’ TICKETY TOC CHARACTERS TOMMY & TALLULAH AND THEIR DOG PUFFERTY; DREAM WORKS ANIMATIONS’ TURBO COVER BY JENNIFER LYNCH

Untitled-5 1

5/22/2013 3:32:21 PM

The New State-of-the-Art Bold Characters. Fresh Content.

Omni-Channel Distribution Platforms.

ACTION WHACKED SATURDAY MORNINGS ON THE CW AND 24/7/365 ON MYVORTEXX.COM

LARGEST AGGREGATOR OF KID SAFE CONTENT ON THE WEB

Power Rangers Super Megaforce ™ & © 2013 SCG Power Rangers LLC. Julius Jr. ™ & © 2013 Paul Frank Industries LLC. Digimon Fusion © Akiyoshi Hongo, Toei Animation.

VORTEXX ™ & © 2013 VORTEXX Entertainment Ventures LLC. Zui.com ™ & © 2013 Saban Digital Studios LLC. The Playforge ™ & © 2013 Playforge Games LLC. Saban Brands ™ & © 2013 Saban Brands LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Untitled-8 10

5/28/2013 1:40:08 PM

34680 | SABAN | ROYALTIES - SPREAD AD | FINAL | May 22, 2013

LEADING MOBILE GAMES PUBLISHER AND DEVELOPER

Connecting Fans to Brands Everywhere, Everyday!

Untitled-8 11

5/28/2013 1:40:08 PM

W

JUNE 2013 • VOL. 8, NO. 3

Harness the Power of the Internet

PUBLISHER ANDY KRINNER ANDY@ANBMEDIA.COM ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER BOB GLASER BOB@ANBMEDIA.COM

elcome to Licensing Expo 2013. I am happy to report that digital advertising and licensing are both finally. . . finally

being recognized by our industry as a viable, if not necessary, tool to increase visibility and sales. You might be calling me “Captain Ob-

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR DONNA MOORE DONNA@ANBMEDIA.COM

vious” right now. If you are, that means you probably understand the potential of digital mar-

CONTROLLER MARY GROGAN MARY@ANBMEDIA.COM

Showcases cater to both the traditional media, including TV, newspapers, and magazines, as well as the top bloggers and influencers on the web for parents. Many of the top kids brands have

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR NANCY LOMBARDI NANCY@ANBMEDIA.COM

Since digital marketing got its start, there has been a resistance to embrace the importance of this new genre of marketing but now that is all changing. It’s sort of like replacing your cell

EDITOR LAURIE LEAHEY LAURIE@ANBMEDIA.COM

by Andy Krinner

keting. But there are still many that either doubt its power or do not understand it. I know this

firsthand because aNb Media is on the cutting edge of digital marketing with our consumer website www.timetoplaymag.com and our seasonal press events. Our Spring and Holiday Media

recognized this and use our events to influence the influencers.

During my tenure in licensing and toys, consumer marketing has been primarily TV-driven.

phone. You know everything about your old phone and it’s comfortable, but after you get the new

phone and fully understand it’s potential and functionality, you wonder what took you so long.

Although there are still some hold-outs, wise ad agencies and manufacturers of consumer

goods and brands are coming to terms with the fact that it is vital to reach the top-tier online in-

fluencers in their respective worlds. From a purely economic standpoint, more than one manufacturer has candidly told me that they can reach a larger targeted audience for a lot less money

than they could on TV. Convincing retail partners of this, something that until recently was next

to impossible, is also getting somewhat easier.

The industry is also beginning to understand that creating a Facebook page or Twitter account isn’t what defines digital marketing. It’s only the tiniest part of it. In order to get at-

EDITOR IN CHIEF JIM SILVER JIM@ANBMEDIA.COM

EDITOR AT LARGE CHRISTOPHER BYRNE CHRISB@ANBMEDIA.COM

ASSISTANT EDITOR JENNIFER LYNCH JENNIFER@ANBMEDIA.COM WEB MASTER ERIK KIECKHAFER ERIK@ANBMEDIA.COM WEB CONTENT MANAGER BRENDAN SANABRIA BRENDAN@ANBMEDIA.COM CONTRIBUTOR JEFF MCKINNEY PUBLIC RELATIONS REPRESENTATIVE JOSSLYNNE WELCH LITZKY PUBLIC RELATIONS, 320 SINATRA DR., HOBOKEN, N.J. 07030 (201) 222–9118 EXT. 13 • JWELCH@LITZKYPR.COM

tention, third-party participation is mandatory. Consumers trust third-party information. Self

INTERESTED IN A SUBSCRIPTION? CONTACT SUBSCRIPTIONS@ANBMEDIA.COM

importance of online influencers and that is through licensing. Savvy licensing execs trying to

229 WEST 28TH STREET, SUITE 401, NEW YORK, NY 10001 PHONE: (646) 763–8710 • FAX: (646) 763–8727

promotion online isn’t taken seriously.

If that wasn’t enough to convince even the biggest skeptic, there is another way to gauge the

capitalize on the next big thing are taking a closer look at some of the biggest influencers on the

web. Since finding a property with a built-in audience is one of the prerequisites for taking on a

new license, agents are now looking to leverage that trust factor by signing online writers who have

large fan bases. This could be the wave in the property pool that everyone has been waiting for.

12

ANB

MEDIA, INC.

ROYALTIE$ is published four times per year by aNb Media. Copyright 2013 aNb Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A. ROYALTIE$ is a registered trademark of aNb Media. Opinions and comments expressed in this publication by editors, contributing writers, or solicited or unsolicited documents are not necessarily those of ROYALTIE$ management.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

www.aNbMedia.com

A RECAP

OF I NDUSTRY

HEADLINES

• For More News, Visit www.aNbMedia.com

• Sign up to Receive FREE Weekly News Alerts

XBOX ONE DEBUTS

Microsoft Corp. unveiled Xbox One, the all-in-one gaming and entertainment system. The unit is expected to be released later this year. An MSRP has not yet been announced. With Xbox One, users can say, “Xbox On,” to launch a personalized Xbox One Home screen. The more users interact with Xbox One, the more it gets to know them and learns what they like. Some of the key Xbox One features include: TV on Xbox One, in which users can navigate and watch live TV from cable, telco, or a satellite set-top box through Xbox One; Snap, which allows users to do two things at once, such as playing a multiplayer battle while watching a movie, talking with friends on Skype while watching live TV, or tracking fantasy teams on TV while watching a game; Skype for Xbox One, which features a specialized design for Xbox One so users can talk with friends on TV in HD or for the first time ever, hold group Skype calls on TV; and OneGuide, which lets users find entertainment easily by searching by network or name using the sound of the user’s voice. It is also presented in a tailored program guide.

A new generation of Xbox Live will allow users to save and store a personalized profile, games, and entertainment in the cloud to access them anytime, from any Xbox One console. Existing Xbox Live Gold Membership for Xbox 360 will seamlessly carry over to Xbox One. Xbox Live features include a new Smart Match matchmaking system, which aims to eliminate waiting in gaming lobbies by estimating wait times and finding people you want to play with while you are enjoying other activities; a dedicated Game DVR, which captures and accesses gaming moments and saves them to the cloud to be shared; and Xbox SmartGlass, a native part of the Xbox One platform, built in to quickly render content directly onto your device and connect with more devices at once for multiplayer and shared entertainment.

Microsoft also unveiled exclusive content partnerships. Steven Spielberg will executive produce an original Halo live-action TV series with exclusive interactive Xbox One content, created in partnership with 343 Industries and Xbox Entertainment Studios. A multi-year partnership will deliver interactive NFL television experiences for the next-generation Xbox One and leverage Microsoft devices and services to evolve both in-game and on the sideline. The NFL on Xbox will feature innovations around Skype, Xbox SmartGlass, and player-worn technology; add an all-new fantasy football solution; and create a personalized NFL destination only available on Xbox One. New games on Xbox One includes Forza Motorsport 5 from Turn 10 Studios (available exclusively for Xbox One at launch) and Call of Duty: Ghosts, the next generation of Call of Duty. FIFA 14, Madden NFL 25, NBA Live 14, and EA Sports UFC from EA Sports will deliver innovations in true player motion and living worlds. And Quantum Break from Remedy Entertainment will be a revolutionary entertainment experience that blurs the line between gaming and TV by integrating drama and gameplay into one immersive experience.

DISCOVERY LAUNCHES TESTTUBE ONLINE NETWORK

Discovery Communications and Revision3 announced the launch of TestTube, a digital video network targeting men. TestTube debuts with a slate of 15 short-form series and many more in development. In addition, Discovery Channel’s MythBusters co-host Tory Belleci will headline Blow it Up, a short-form series to launch late summer. It will be available at TestTube.com, and through Revision3’s mobile site and apps, YouTube, Xbox, and additional distribution partners. Revision3 was founded in 2005 and was acquired by Discovery Communications in May 2012.

14

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

A RECAP

OF I NDUSTRY

HEADLINES

• For More News, Visit www.aNbMedia.com

• Sign up to Receive FREE Weekly News Alerts

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT, FOX TO BRING THE SIMPSONS’ SPRINGFIELD TO LIFE

Springfield theme park attraction

Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products announced that Springfield, the animated hometown of The Simpsons, will come to life at Universal Orlando Resort this summer. The expansive, new area within Universal Studios will be anchored by The Simpsons Ride. It will be the only place in the world where guests can walk the streets of Springfield. It will include a brand new outdoor attraction, places, and food pulled right from the show. The new attraction–Kang & Kodos Twirl ‘n’ Hurl–will take visitors on an “intergalactic spin designed to send them into orbit.” Simpsons’ fans will even be able to grab a Krusty-certified meat sandwich at Krusty Burger, snatch the catch-of-the-day at the Frying Dutchman, get a slice of pizza at Luigi’s Pizza, go nuts for donuts at Lard Lad, enjoy a Taco Fresho with Bumblebee Man, and imbibe at Moe’s Tavern. Duff Beer will be brewed exclusively for Universal Orlando. Simpsons characters Krusty the Clown and Sideshow Bob will also make their debut with the new area.

TRUMP APPOINTS NEW GLOBAL AGENTS

The Trump Organization has appointed a number of international licensing agents in an effort to extend the Trump brand into new territories through local licensing programs. Trump brands, including Donald J. Trump Signature Collection and Trump Home, will be represented in the UK, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Latin America, South America, and the Caribbean.

New agents for the brand include The Partnership in the UK; Infiniss in South Korea; Supermarcas in Brazil; and P&L Global Network in Mexico, Columbia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Peru, Chile, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, Dominican Republic, Aruba, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Curacao, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Bonaire, Guadeloupe, and Martinique.

THE PASSING

OF

CAROL BUTLER

Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) announced that Carol Butler, vice-president of international licensing and pioneer of the Elvis Presley licensing program, passed away in May following a lengthy battle with cancer. She was 66.

EPE issued this statement: “The Graceland family has suffered a tremendous loss and extends our deepest sympathies to Carol’s family. She will be dearly missed.” EPE says, “Butler joined the staff in 1994 and was charged with the responsibility of promoting the legacy and preserving the integrity of Elvis Presley through a global licensed merchandise program. In her many years with the company, she devoted personalized attention to hundreds of licensees and under her leadership, helped distinguish EPE’s licensing program as one of the top in the industry.”

Donations can be made in Butler’s name to either The Melanoma Research Alliance or The American Cancer Society.

16

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Regular Show

TM

TM & Š 2013 Cartoon Network.

Untitled-8 1

KILLER BRANDS

See us in booth D121.

5/28/2013 3:26:17 PM

MOJANG AND JAZWARES

Mojang, developer and publisher of the global video game Minecraft, announced Jazwares as a global partner for toys and electronics. Building from the core pillars of the Minecraft brand, the worldwide agreement will pave the way for a full line of Minecraft action figures, plush, and paper craft items. Products will launch this holiday at major retailers nationwide.

WWE AND THE BRIDGE DIRECT

The WWE announced an exclusive, multi-year agreement with The Bridge Direct to develop and market construction toys based on WWE events and characters. The agreement marks the first time WWE will enter the construction toy category. Targeted to WWE fans ages 4–14, the comprehensive line will include figures, accessories, and construction bricks for “build your own” playsets to bring WWE’s action-packed events and Superstars to life.

The WWE construction toys are expected to begin rolling out at major mass retailers in spring 2014.

SOBE PARTNERS WITH PHILLY SWIRL

The Joester Loria Group (TJLG) announced SoBe, the original South Beach Beverage Company, is entering the licensed food category. In partnership with Philly Swirl, SoBe-flavored frozen bars are expected to hit U.S. grocery and mass chains this summer. The SoBe bars will come in assorted, exotic flavors including top-selling SoBe Lifewater & Elixirs flavors such as Yumberry Pomegranate and Pacific Coconut.

GLOBAL ICONS AND LITTLE GIRAFFE

Global Icons now represents Little Giraffe, a luxury baby accessory line. Little Giraffe has been offering machine-washable, ultra-soft products since 2000. The company’s easy-care, heirloom-style collections are comprised of blankets and accessories available for babies and adults.

Global Icons will support Little Giraffe’s strategic brand initiatives by increasing the brand’s exposure through new product collections. Brand extensions will focus on select infant products and categories such as strollers, walkers, car seats, cribs, and other infant furniture.

K’NEX AND FAMILY GUY

K’NEX Brands has partnered with 20th Century Fox Consumer Products to create a new line of building toys inspired by Family Guy. The partnership combines the K’NEX building system with the iconic characters and elements from Family Guy, including Peter, Stewie, Brian, the Griffin Family station wagon, Stewie’s time machine, and more. The new building sets will be available at major retailers in spring 2014.

SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO SIGNS NEW LICENSEES

Seltzer Licensing Group, the exclusive global licensing agency for ScottsMiracle-Gro announced four new licensing partners: Acme United (bladed lawn and garden tools), Swan Products (hoses and water accessories), Radius Garden (ergonomic gardening hand tools), and Bond Manufacturing (plant support accessories).

20

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

STAR WARS AND ELECTRONIC ARTS

The Walt Disney Company and Electronic Arts, Inc., (EA) announced a new multi-year exclusive licensing agreement to develop and publish globally new games based on Star Wars characters and storylines.

Under the agreement, EA will develop and publish new Star Wars titles for a core gaming audience, spanning all interactive platforms and the most popular game genres, while Disney will retain certain rights to develop new titles within the mobile, social, tablet, and online games categories.

TICKETY TOC AND SCHOLASTIC

Zodiak Kids, a division of Zodiak Rights, has appointed Scholastic as the North American master publishing partner for Tickety Toc, the new preschool show on Nick Jr. in the U.S. and Disney Junior in Canada.

The range of publishing will include storybooks, board books, and story-based sticker books, novelty, and e-books. Product will be available in the U.S. and Canada across all channels of distribution, with product expected in spring 2014.

The deal was brokered by U.S. licensing agent, Established Brands and Canadian licensing agent, Studio Licensing, on behalf of Zodiak Rights.

LYSOL AND QUALITY FILTERS

Reckitt Benckiser and Quality Filters, Inc., have partnered for a new line of Lysol Triple-Protection Air Filters. The air filters will be available in a variety of sizes, sold exclusively at Menards as well as through online distribution. The Lysol brand is owned by household cleaning company Reckitt Benckiser. The deal was brokered by Lysol’s licensing agent The Licensing Company.

BROOKS BROTHERS AND WARNER BROS.

Brooks Brothers released a capsule collection of apparel and accessories inspired by Warner Bros. Pictures’ The Great Gatsby. Costume designer Catherine Martin worked closely with the company to create the more than 500 men’s looks seen in the film, using images and products from Brooks Brothers’ archives as inspiration. Brooks Brothers then adapted Martin’s creations for a limited-edition collection, available in stores and online.

In addition to classic suit pieces, the collection also features blazers, cardigans, a tuxedo, stud cufflinks, a wing-tip shoe, a walking stick, bow ties, and a straw boater hat.

PAC-MAN GETS AGENT FOR ITALY, GREECE

41 Entertainment (41e) announced that it has appointed Team Entertainment (TE) as its new licensing and merchandising agent for Italy and Greece for the Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures TV series, which is slated to begin broadcast in fall 2013 in the English-speaking markets and worldwide in spring 2014.

22

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

W

NFL Properties’

BY JENNIFER LYNCH

hile it may be the off-season for National Football League (NFL) teams, for fans there is never an offseason when it comes to showing their team spirit.

And that’s why NFL Properties, the league’s consumer products and licensing division, is also always on.

Much like the game itself, licensing for the NFL comes down to its execution.

And just as a team alters its plays depending on its competition, the NFL has refined its strategy to best meet the wants and needs of its vast and varied consumer base. Last year, its major retail focus was placed on the newly designed men’s jerseys from Nike and fan headwear from Forty Seven Brand. This year, the company will shift the focus to its female and kid fanbase.

In 2011, the NFL nixed the long-time “shrink-it and pink-it” apparel approach many sports leagues take for female consumers and launched its Fit for You campaign. This offers female fans apparel featuring fashion-forward styles and figure-flattering cuts from licensees such as All Sport Couture and Victoria’s Secret.

This year’s campaigns will emphasize how new women’s jerseys can be worn by female fans. Also expanding this year will be its stadium style lounges, which present product for female fans in a way that’s more inviting, says Leo Kane, NFL’s senior vice-president of consumer products. Last year there were eight lounges across the 32 clubs, and that number is expected to increase to 11 lounges this year. The lounges offer fans manicures and pedicures and feature chandeliers, a DJ, and displays on white linens. They also highlight different style guides on how to wear favorite fan gear. “We are very focused on the unlimited growth potential we see on the women’s side,” says Kane. “I think the female fan has let us know that she really appreciates that we’re designing and making product for her. She’s responded and also helped drive a lot of the growth in all our business because she’s also purchasing for others in her life.”

The NFL is also targeting its kid fanbase via the growing popularity of its animated half-hour series NFL Rush Zone Season of the Guardians, which is based on the NFL’s online destination for kids NFLRushZone.com. The third season will begin airing on Nicktoons shortly before the start of the 2013–2014 NFL season. The series intertwines actual game footage and voiceovers from NFL players with a story that centers on Ish and his friends as they work to protect the league’s 32 teams and the world from a plotting master villain—Wild Card.

NFL Properties is focusing on the toys and games categories for NFL Rush Zone with partners that includes LeapFrog and Techno Source. It also has a video game partnership in the works and plans to announce a QSR partner for a promotion this fall.

Lastly, homegating NFL games is seen as “the last great campfire for people,” says Kane, so the brand will continue to expand with new product in housewares, kitchenware, and more to cater to these fans.

24

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Fast Facts

• Fifty-six percent of fans choose their favorite team by age 12.

• Superbowl XLVIII will be held in New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, with the celebration taking place in New York City for the first time in the game’s history.

• NFL Rush Zone Season of the Guardians is the first-ever original half-hour animated series developed by a major U.S. sports league and a cable network.

• Last season, eight style lounges for women across the NFL’s 32 clubs opened.

• Of the estimated 180 million NFL fans, only about 10 percent actually attend games.

Nike

Last year, Nike took the reigns as the official and exclusive uniform provider for all 32 NFL teams. The licensing deal also gave Nike the rights to create a line of apparel and fan gear for consumers, available online and at various retail chains, including Nike stores.

Outerstuff

Outerstuff came on board last year as the NFL’s youth apparel licensee. The company currently offers NFL apparel and accessories for each of its 32 teams in infant, toddler, boys, and girls. Pictured below is a Pittsburgh Steelers boys performance poly-fleece hooded sweatshirt and camouflage snap back hat.

Cuce Shoes

Cuce Shoes produces an NFL-licensed collection of footwear and apparel for female fans.

The line currently includes seven styles of footwear, including snow and winter boots (The Admirer, The Aficionado, The Follower, and The Fanatic), wedge boots (The Cheerleader), rain boots (The Enthusiast), and wedge heels (The Groupie), as well as an oversized off-the-shoulder sweatshirt (The Sideliner). Each of the shoes features one of the 32 team logos. The above shoes are from the upcoming 2013 line. Sizes are also available for kids and tweens.

Electronic Arts

EA Sports, a division of Electronic Arts and the NFL’s long-time gaming partner, will launch the Madden 14 game this August for Xbox 360 and PS3 systems. The company announced in April that NFL Hall of Famer Barry Sanders was chosen by fans to be featured on the game’s cover.

Techno Source

All Sport Couture

All Sport Couture signed a licensing deal with the NFL in 2012 to create a line of jerseys as part of the NFL Fit for You women’s apparel line. The jerseys feature five contemporary fitted styles named after common football terms, plays, and formations: Wildkat, Red Zone, First Down, Blown Coverage, and Double Team.

Jerseys feature each of the 32 teams’ officially licensed logos.

With the NFL RushZone board game from Techno Source, players can feel the excitement of a real football game. Players split into two teams and flip a coin to start the game. The offense rolls dice to keep the drive alive, while the defense tries to sack the quarterback and force a turnover. Score as many points as possible before the end of the fourth quarter to win. The game includes all 32 NFL teams. It is for two to six players. The game will be avilable later this summer.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

25

V

More Bang from Your Angry Bird: Building Brands in the Gaming Industry ideo Games continue to shift from packaged products sold at retail to digital content delivered via direct download. But while retailers might be losing out on the initial sale of the game itself, video games are expanding from solitary game experiences to entertainment brands with thriving licensing programs.

The challenge for the games industry is to create and develop games that go beyond the initial gameplay experience and grow into highly marketable entertainment brands. At the core of the massively successful Angry Birds licensing program is an app-based mobile game. That game, which can be downloaded for free, has spawned countless products available at retail and is scheduled to become a full-length, animated movie in 2016.

“The lines between traditional entertainment brand licensing and video game licensing is becoming less and less distinct,” says Brennan Townley, director of licensing, PopCap Games, a division of EA. “As a result, one of the things that PopCap Games is focusing on is building brands and not just games.” PopCap currently has licensing programs for Plants Vs. Zombies and Bejeweled.

BY JEFF

MCKINNEY

Scene from Activision’s Skylanders Swap Force

Video game characters are some of the most recognizable characters on the planet, thanks in part to a lesser reliance on dialog—that doesn’t always translate across cultures—and a greater reliance on visuals, which are universal. Characters such as Nintendo’s Mario, SEGA’s Sonic the Hedgehog, and the pigs from Angry Birds are mostly silent in their various games, however, all are instantly recognized around the globe. It’s this instant recognition that makes video game characters such a prime licensing opportunity.

For some characters, there doesn’t have to be a video game in the marketplace for a retail program to exist. SEGA is currently building out programs around the company’s rich history of retro game characters. “In the mid-1990s, SEGA was ahead of its time,” says Cindy Chau, licensing manager, SEGA. “It was very iconic in its day and we want to be able to remind them [consumers] and bring them back to that nostalgia.” That nostalgia now primarily targets men in their 30s with disposable income.

going audiences invested in a franchise between films. Unlike disc-based games, digital games provide players with an ongoing experience that doesn’t end when the mission is completed. Mobile and social games are continually updated with new content that keeps players returning on a regular basis for months and even years. The first Hunger Games movie was released in March 2012 and the second film, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, will be released this November. In the interim, fans stay engrossed in The Hunger Games world through the game, The Hunger Games Adventures from Funtactix. “This is a universe that continues to expand,” says Sam Glassenberg, CEO, Funtactix. “Since the game’s launch last year, we have done dozens upon dozens of updates and are constantly adding new districts, new chapters, and new content.”

Game makers are going beyond creating games based on movies and are making the movies themselves. For Need for Speed, a high-energy racing game and one of EA’s most popular series, EA partnered with DreamWorks to produce a movie based on the game. “We are working on a Need for Speed film right now,” says Patrick O’Brien, vice-president of entertainment, EA. “We funded and developed a script then went to the marketplace with it.”

O’Brien views movies as another way to bring EA’s brands to its fans while also attracting a broader audience of people who don’t play video games.

Movie-based video games have existed since the days of the first Atari console. However today’s digital games have the potential to keep movie-

Just as more original gaming properties are lending themselves to strong licensing programs, strong entertainment brands continue to lead to suc-

CHARACTERS ARE KEY

VIDEO GAMES GO HOLLYWOOD

26

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

FINDING THE RIGHT PLATFORM FOR THE RIGHT BRAND

cessful games. Until recently, video games were mostly relegated to consoles and handhelds— Nintendo’s DS line and PlayStation Vita—as well as desktop/laptop computers. But now a game can be made for these platforms as well as Facebook, mobile apps, and online gaming sites.

Figuring out what type of game is best for an entertainment property can be a challenge, given how many platforms exist in today’s market.

CBS Consumer Products has been very successful in licensing properties from its current portfolio of programs, including Star Trek, Amazing Race, and CSI, to its classics such as Twilight Zone, Dynasty, and Cheers. “CBS looks at its roster and then looks at the different gaming categories and works to figure out which property is best suited for which category,” says Liz Kalodner, executive vice-president and general manager, CBS Consumer Products. “It’s about how do we marry the experience with the original entertainment.”

On the gaming side, D3Publisher, who currently has a partnership with DreamWorks, also looks at all platforms when making a game. “D3 is a platform agnostic publisher,” says David Pava, senior director of marketing, D3Publisher.

“We love making games for consumers for whatever platform they are on, and we specialize in making games for all systems.”

While mobile and social games currently possess the potential to reach the widest audience, the video game console market is heading into what should be one of the most exciting and interesting years ever for hardware. Both Microsoft (Xbox) and Sony (PlayStation) will release next-generation consoles this holiday season. Everyone will

MAKING THE CASE FOR CONSOLES

Disney Infinity will be available in August.

be watching to see how the successors to the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 perform at retail.

Nintendo beat both Microsoft and Sony to market by releasing the Wii U during holiday 2012. Unfortunately for Nintendo, the Wii U has experienced worse-than-expected sales and led to Nintendo’s second consecutive annual operating loss.

With the Wii U’s disappointing sales, should we expect similar results for Microsoft and Sony? Not necessarily, because unlike Nintendo and the Wii, Microsoft and Sony made digital downloadable content and online play major features of their current generation systems and this year’s new consoles will see greater dependency on both. For its part, Nintendo is upping its downloadable offerings through its Virtual Console, which allows users to purchase and download games to the Wii U. Game developers and publishers are eager to release new games for these new consoles. “This year is definitely the year of transition into the next generation of consoles,” says Tony Key, senior vice-president of sales and marketing, Ubisoft. “Ubisoft is excited to usher in this new opportunity to grow our current brands, via titles such as Assassin’s Creed IV, and introduce new ones, such as Watch Dogs.”

All three new game consoles will also provide more experiences that capitalize on the popularity of social gaming more prominently found in online and digital games. “This is an exciting time to be in our industry, particularly this year with the recently announced new console hardware,” says

Ashley Maidy, head of global licensing and partnerships, Activision Publishing, Inc. “We also anticipate that the new consoles will deliver a more robust social experience to consumers.”

It is an especially exciting time for Activision. Its Skylanders generated more than $1 billion in retail sales in just 15 months, according to the company. For the 2013 holiday season, Activision will release the third game in the franchise, which is Skylanders Swap Force.

The new game will include a new line of game figures whose top and bottom halves can be swapped to create new figures. These figures will be activated in the game just like the original, by using the Portal of Power.

Disney is introducing its own take on Activision’s Skylanders with Disney Infinity. It is an all-new video game initiative starring the characters from Walt Disney and Pixar Studios’ most popular franchises. Players can place realworld toy versions of their favorite Disney characters onto a device called the Infinity Base and transport them into their different game worlds.

Infinity will also include an open-ended, freeplay area called the Toy Box. Players will be able to incorporate characters across the Disney brands in Toy Box mode. Disney Infinity will arrive in stores this August.

Creating a successful video game requires more than just making a great game. Video games must go beyond their platforms and become part of the fabric of our culture so they can become brands that can be licensed and further developed. The next Angry Birds is probably out there right now. But finding it among the competition will ultimately depend on the strength of the game and its characters, which will allow it to be developed into a brand.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

27

VIDEO GAME LICENSING

BY JEFF

MCKINNEY

Video Games continue to shift from packaged products sold at retail to digital content delivered via direct download. But while retailers might be losing out on the initial sale of the game itself, video games are expanding from solitary game experiences to entertainment brands with thriving licensing programs. Following are some of the companies and games leading the way with both initiatives.

One of the most successful video game brands on the market now is Activision’s Skylanders, which generated more than $1 billion in retail sales in just 15 months, according to the company. For Q4, Activision will release the third game in the franchise, which is Skylanders Swap Force. The new game will include a new line of game figures whose top and bottom halves can be swapped to create a new figure. The figure is shown here on the Portal of Power.

Activision

D3Publisher has made a name for itself with its licensed games based on DreamWorks movies. This year, D3 will launch its in-house property Earth Defense Force 2025. The game is an action-shooter that is already a hit in Japan and lets players defend the Earth from an invading alien enemy.

D3Publisher

Sony will release the PlayStation 4 this holiday season and hopes the addition of social integration, online features, more powerful graphics, and speed will return the PlayStation to the top of the console market. The PS4 will feature enhanced social spectating by enabling gamers to broadcast their gameplay in real-time to friends using live internet streaming services.

Sony

Microsoft aims to make the Xbox One, the follow up to the Xbox 360, the all in one system for every living room. This more powerful console will feature integrated Kinect functionality for voice command options and a redesigned controller. Microsoft has partnered with the NFL for interactive football viewing experiences and Steven Spielberg will create a new, live action Halo series for Xbox’s online service, Xbox Live.

Microsoft

28

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Next month, Ubisoft and Sony Pictures Consumer Products follow up on their highly successful collaboration on The Smurfs Dance Party, which became one of 2011’s top-selling movielicensed games in the U.S., to release The Smurfs 2 video game. The game is based on The Smurfs 2 movie and is an action-packed adventure game that will be released on all platforms.

Ubisoft

Battlefield 4 is the 13th installment in the Battlefield series and the sequel to 2011’s Battlefield 3. The game is due out this fall and will receive a full licensing program with partners such as Hasbro (board games), Jinx (apparel and accessories), Orion (novelization) and Razer (PC peripherals) on board.

EA

Wario

Wario, Mario’s alter-ego, is one of Nintendo’s most recognizable characters and has his own series of games called the WarioWare series. Game & Wario is the first Wario game for the Wii U and features a collection of mini-games that use only the Wii U GamePad controller. Game & Wario will be available later this month.

Nintendo

PopCap, a division of EA, continues to develop new games for its Plants vs. Zombies franchise. At the same time, the company continues to grow the game’s licensing program and is working with a long list of partners including Bioworld Merchandising (apparel and accessories), Jazwares (plush, figures, and electronic accessories), USAopoly (board games), Walls360 (wall graphics), and Incogneato (costumes) among others.

PopCap

Disney Infinity is an all-new video game initiative starring the beloved characters from Walt Disney and Pixar Studios’ most popular franchises. Players can place real-world toy versions of their favorite Disney characters onto a device called the Infinity Base and transport them into their different game worlds. Infinity will also include an open-ended, free-play area called the Toy Box. Players will be able to incorporate characters across the Disney brands in Toy Box mode. Disney Infinity will arrive in stores this August.

Disney Interactive

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

29

W

The Changing Face of the Outdoorsmen

BY JENNIFER LYNCH

hether hiking, fishing, camping, or hunting—the idea of getting back to nature used to be fairly straightforward, just you and the great outdoors. And for licensors this meant performance and endurance were the drivers, leaving little chance for new brands to compete against the long-standing, trusted brands in the space. This still exists, of course. But the overall industry generated $646 billion in sales in 2012, with $120.7 billion in outdoor recreation product sales, according to the Outdoor Industry Association’s monthly sales report. New trends are paving the way for a new breed of outdoorsmen, and with it opportunity for new product and brands.

The Rise of the Hill Billy

One trend driving growth is the increasing popularity and fascination with the outdoor lifestyle. From shows such as Hillbilly Handfishin’ to Gator Boys to Honey Boo Boo, reality entertainment is giving more Americans an inside look at a lifestyle many previously knew little about.

“The hill billy culture has always been there,” says Shon Lees, CEO and co-founder of HillBilly Brand, which is tapping into this consumer base with the motto Born Country, Raised Outdoors. “But because of media coverage and more networks dedicating airtime to it, it’s become more apparent.” The HillBilly Brand currently has deals in apparel, headwear, lighters, knives, and jewelry. “When we started, there really wasn’t a brand that crossed the whole gamut,” says Lees. “And what we’ve found is our consumers are so proud to wear the logo. It’s kind of become a badge of honor.” And more people want to be apart of this lifestyle, whether through simply spending more time outdoors or fully immersing themselves in backwoods adventures and sports.

“I think you’re beginning to see that the everyday guy wants to get in touch with his primal instincts and get outdoors,” says JP Stoops, director of licensing for Animal Planet, a division of Discovery Communications.

However, in order for an entertainment property to successfully translate into the more rugged outdoor product categories, they must be directly aligned, Stoops adds. Thus Discovery programs, such as Call of the Wildman and Gator Boys, which focus on the trend of the outdoors hillbilly lifestyle but lack a direct product tie-in, tend to have more success in the apparel and novelty categories. In contrast, Bear Grylls, who originally connected with U.S. audiences through Man Vs. Wild and will play host on a new series Get Out Alive with Bear Grylls this fall, has been taken

30

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

seriously as a brand because of his background in the British Special Forces and outdoor survival.

Under Bear Grylls close-up of the River Ventures, the brand will Monsters Junior Fishing Combo add a line of camping gear sold under Bear Rivers International to its portfolio this year. (Bear Grylls Ventures could not be reached for comment as of press time.)

Another brand that’s been able to bait consumers in this space is River Monsters, based on the extreme angler reality series in its fifth season on Animal Planet. And for a casual fisherman who watches River Monsters and is looking to get more involved in the sport, branded gear might be more appealing. “Our line is perfect because it offers nice opening price points for someone who wants a quality product that they can use whenever they get the urge to get outdoors,” Stoops says. Its consumer products program now has more than 22 items in its line of fishing gear, developed

by South Bend Sporting Goods. And this year, it’s expanding with a new River Monsters Junior line for younger anglers.

New Consumers Lead to New Product

Viewed as an entry point to the outdoors, fishing is also a good area to look at to get a sense of the overall consumer trends across the space.

“Fishing is seen as a gateway activity,” says Frank Peterson, president and CEO of The Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF). “About half the U.S. population participates in outdoor sports and activities and about half that fish. Fishing is one of the easiest ways to introduce people to other outdoor activities.” And in the past five years alone, the number of active fisherman, or anglers, has been rising, reversing a previous 20-year decline, says Peterson, referencing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation.

The growth of anglers is specifically rising among females (17 percent), Hispanics (six percent), 25- to 34-year-olds (26 percent), and 55-plus retirees (28 percent for ages 55–64; 44 percent for ages 65 and up).

While cultural differences remain an obstacle in how best to reach the Hispanic audience, for the outdoors space right now women are an audi-

ence that is proving easier to translate product for. As with most other categories, “women are making more of the decisions in households about their recreational opportunities,” says Peterson. Outdoors manufacturers are responding with a greater push in product designed specifically with women in mind. Bushnell, for example, offers a line of footwear licensed by BBC International that now includes styles with more feminine color palettes and better fit and performance for women, says Michelle Alfandari, president and CEO of MODA Licensing, which manages the Bushnell brand.

Versatility for Core Consumers

The demand for fit and performance is something that will always take priority for the more avid outdoorsman. And while entertainment trends might introduce consumers to the spaces, the more time they invest in outdoor sports and activities, the more they will likely turn back to more timeless core brands. “As with any activity, people start out with limited expectations,” says RBFF’s Peterson. “You can get by with the basics equipment but if you really want to get into it and become more avid about it, you might want to invest in higher-end products with more bells and whistles.” Thus the focus for core outdoor brands remains on extending their high performance and technical brand equity to parallel categories.

“When we started with Bushnell footwear it was mostly focused on hunting because there was a lot of use for it with core product—binoculars, scopes, etc.,” says Alfandari. “But that has evolved because there has been a greater interest in the products’ performance and technology. There is a tremendous amount of loyalty in the technical

Bushnell’s Stalk Mid shoes feature the highperformance avid outdoorsmen seek in an athletic style that can be worn everyday.

field. So if you’ve been satisfied with a Bushnell product, you’re more likely to stick with the Bushnell brand.” Just as Bushnell has become known for its innovation in high-performance sports optics, the brand is applying that to its footwear by using light-weight materials and water-proof membranes that are also technical to provide a similar level of quality performance.

Versatility is another growing demand among core consumers. “We are seeing more trends for

multipurpose products and products that help reduce other materials you might otherwise need to bring on a backpacking, hiking, or camping excursion,” says Greg Winters, licensing programs manager for Boy Scouts of America. For the more casual outdoorsmen, it allows them to use the gear for everyday use, while versatility for the core outdoorsmen can provide better overall performance. “When evaluating different types of product licensing opportunities, we might look for products that could be relevant to enhancing a family camping experience,” says Winters. “But would likely be relevant for an outdoor enthusiast as well.” BSA recently introduced the Be Prepared First Aid Kit by Curad, which has broad appeal for both of those segments.

Whether consumers are looking to tap into their inner wildman or extreme angler, or simply seek refuge from the fast-paced, high-tech world, there are many facets of the great outdoors to do so.

Getting Back to Nature Through Fitness

It’s no surprise that like many consumer categories, women are leading the charge of purchases. But as a subset of simply getting back to nature, it also taps into the related trend of more Americans, particularly women, taking their workout routines out of the gym and off the beaten path. And health-focused brands are also finding opportunities to tap into the movement toward greener workouts, such as outdoor boot camps and yoga hikes, through licensed goods.

SELF Magazine played host to its 20th annual Workout in the Park series this year, which encourage women to get outdoors and get active through a series of exercise workshops, classes, and more, held in city parks nationwide. And in coordination with those efforts, SELF and its licensing agent FremantleMedia debuted its first licensed line of fitness gear, during the Workout in the Park series. “Outdoor boot camps are gaining popularity as people eschew gym machines for functional training,” says Lucy Danziger, editor-in-chief of SELF Magazine.

“Everything in SELF’s new line is designed to encourage consumers to enjoy their active lifestyle and take part in [these] top trends.”

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

31

OUTDOOR AND SPORTING GOODS LICENSING

BY JENNIFER LYNCH

Opportunities for licensing in outdoor and sporting goods are on the rise. A category that has often been limited due to the fierce brand loyalty of its core consumers is now allowing new brands to join the space thanks in part to the growing popularity of the hillbilly and outdoor lifestyle, as well as a trend to take fitness outdoors, which caters to more casual consumers.

BUSHNELL

Bushnell and BBC International partnered a few years ago to create a Bushnell line of branded footwear, which has expanded to include more offerings for the female consumer as well as creating a more athletic-inspired look that offers more versatility for its consumers. Pictured is the Bushnell Women’s Prohunter Series Snake Boots. The boots feature Tuftex snake bite resistance, Hydroguard liners, and ScentMask antimicrobial odor elimination.

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

Boy Scouts of America (BSA) signed a deal with Curad for a Be Prepared first aid kit for hiking, camping, and all outdoor activities. The 140-piece kit includes scissors, rolled gauze, waterproof tape, an arm sling and tourniquet, large absorbent dressing, and other first aid essentials.

DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS

Discovery Communications launched the River Monster+ sport fishing app powered by FishBrain. The mobile app, inspired by the Animal Planet series River Monsters lets anglers log and share fishing catches and network with fellow fishermen. The app is available for iOS and Android platforms. The basic version is free and a pro version will be released later this year with added features only available through subscription.

HILLBILLY BRAND

HillBilly Brand has partnered with Calico Scripto for a branded utility lighter. The lighters are currently available nationwide in convenience stores and Scripto is currently targeting hardware, sporting goods, warehouse, and grocery stores for additional distribution.

32

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

BEAR GRYLLS VENTURES

Bear Grylls Ventures is teaming with Bear River International to create the first line of Bear Grylls-branded camping gear. The line will include hammocks, backpacks, daypacks, tents and sleeping bags. Each model was tested and approved by Grylls. The products are scheduled for launch later this year. Pictured is the Bear Grylls Survival Tool Pack from current licensee Gerber.

SELF

SELF Magazine, a Condé Nast publication, and its licensing agent, FremantleMedia, have unveiled a new line of SELF-branded fitness products that will launch later this year. The product line was developed by CAP Barbell, Inc. Products include hand weights, fitness hoops, weighted balls, yoga mats, weighted vests, and jump ropes. Each piece of equipment includes QR codes linking consumers to WWW.SELF.COM for online tips about proper use, as well as exercise routines designed by SELF specifically for each particular piece of equipment. Products retailing for $19.99 or more will contain an offer for a free SELF subscription.

VOLKSWAGEN

The Monster Factory has created a line of officially licensed Volkswagen camper tents inspired by the iconic 1965 Split Screen VW Camper Van. Its exact scale replica blue tent is waterproof and can sleep four people in two rooms.

There is also a kid-sized version, available in pink, blue, and red, is made for indoor or outdoor use. These tents can accommodates up to three kids and come packaged in an easy to store VW wheel bag.

ZIPPO

Last year, the Zippo lighter brand underwent an overhaul from marketing to product development. Its new Zippo Outdoor line focuses on delivering an overall camping experience, and introduced a line of new products earlier this year, which include a Windproof Stove, All-Terrain Grill, 4-in-1 Woodsman, and more.

RAPALA

The Wildflower Group has brokered two new deals for Rapala, a manufacturer of fishing-related products. Open Road Brands’ Rapala line will include wall art, wall clocks, temperature gauges, serving trays, coffee mugs, magnets, boxes and containers, fishing pole hangers, and pillows. Cranston Fabrics will produce Rapala-themed piece goods, printed fabrics, printed fleece, and pre-printed fabric kits. The products based on Rapala’s extensive archive of famous lures and archived ads are slated for retail this summer.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

33

A

Trends in Licensing

BY

NANCY LOMBARDI

s another Licensing Show kicks off in Las Vegas, it’s time to assess how the industry is faring thus far in 2013. Those interviewed all expressed the same positive sentiment about the trade show itself as well as the overall state of the economy.

“Everyone is somewhere between cautiously optimistic and optimistic,” says Marty Brochstein, senior vice-president, industry relations and information for the Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA). “No one feels we are totally out of the economic hole but there are positive signs.”

There are also signs of a few clear trends emerging as we move into the second half of 2013. The most significant trend that was mentioned by those interviewed is that licensing is now being fully embraced by manufacturers and retailers for a number of reasons. It’s recognized as an obvious revenue generator. It’s recognized as a marketing tool. It is also recognized as a way to engage with consumers.

“There are certain financial incentives to licensing,” says Allison Kopcha executive vice-president of The Licensing Company, North America. “It’s a way to market a brand and generate revenue. There is also a strategic component as well. It’s oftentimes a way to engage with consumers in new distribution channels where the core brand may not be found.”

With limited shelf space and the limited attention span of today’s consumers, retailers are now strategically evaluating where licensing sits within their portfolio. “We are seeing retailers take the initiative to schedule meetings to plan two or three years out for what can work in their product mix and what exclusives can be developed,” says Joy Tashjian, principal of Joy Tashjian Marketing Group.

In addition, a new business model is emerging as private equity firms, licensing agencies, and corporate brands are colliding to create a new format for brand extension, according to Ross Misher, CEO of Brand Central.

Debra Joester, president of The Joester Loria Group (TJLG) agrees. “Brands are being sold to companies where the entire business model is a licensing model and that changes the landscape.” She cites Iconix Brand Group and Authentic Brands Group as two companies with this business model. Sequential Brands Group and Hilco Consumer Capital also fall into this category.

DIGITAL WORLD

While classic properties remain the obvious drivers of licensed goods, the way in which consumers engage with the characters and properties is constantly evolving, especially as social media evolves.

“Good characters and good storylines are what people continue to gravitate toward,” says Leigh Anne Brodsky, managing director of Peanuts Worldwide (a joint venture between Iconix and Charles M. Schulz Creative Associates). “But the way people are consuming media is different. It’s a deeper engagement through social media.”

Brodsky uses the Peanuts Comic Strip as an example calling it, “bite-sized

34

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

media.” Whereas at one time the strip would have been read in the comics section of a newspaper, the same classic comic strips with their still-relevant messaging can now be enjoyed and shared on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

In addition to repurposing the classics for today’s generation, the digital world has allowed new stars to emerge covering every genre of consumer interest. Beanstalk recently launched a new division called Tinderbox devoted solely to identifying and growing digital properties.

“Tinderbox’s first clients will be the tween social network MovieStarPlanet; a world-building music game app My Singing Monster; and the Beetnuks, a new brand under development, which will be supported by a mobile game and other media,” says Debra Restler, associate vicepresident of business development and marketing at Beanstalk.

Brand Central is working on a similar strategy. The company’s client roster in the new media space includes blogs Apartment Therapy and Cupcakes & Cashmere as well as mobile and online social game Crowdstar.

SERVING UP FOOD LICENSING

The food licensing craze really kicked into high gear during the recession as consumers had to cut back on eating out yet still wanted to enjoy restaurant favorites. Licensing allowed them to do that at home. Even though consumers are spending once again, this is a trend that is not slowing down. American consumers are developing a taste for “ethnic” and “exotic” foods—as long the experimentation can be carried out in the safety of the frozen food section of the local supermarket. For licensors and licensees food licensing is a big win because, “once you have a hit, it doesn’t get cancelled,” says TJLG’s Joester, which represents Entenmann’s. “It stays around for years.”

With the popularity of the Food Network and food bloggers, it will last because as consumers have less time to shop and less time for recreation, “food has become entertainment,” says Joester.

LICENSING Y’ALL

While American consumers may be getting a bit more exotic with their food choices, their TV viewing habits are not quite as sophisticated. The last trend cited by those interviewed is the popularity of the “Hillbilly” and “Redneck” lifestyles. TV series such as Duck Dynasty and Here Comes Honey Boo Boo are something that consumers can relate to and make fun of at the same time. For more information on this trend, see Outdoor and Sporting Goods licensing on page 30.

Despite the uncertainty that remains at retail, especially as it relates to the future of JCPenney and Sears/Kmart, opportunities for online retailers are growing rapidly. Superheroes are popular this year, the WWE looks to be on the upswing, and Disney has a lineup that’s on fire. The next few years look to be a promising time for the licensing industry.

For Pets and Their People

© 2013 ASPCA®. All Rights Reserved.

Making a Difference for Animals Since 1866

American Greetings • Artists’ Addiction Records • ASPCA Pet Health Insurance • Bank of America • Breyer ®

Checks in the Mail • Commonwealth Toy and Novelty • David & Goliath • European Home Designs Evenflo • Firestar Diamond • Forever 21 • G Mason • Gel Scrubs • Jewett-Cameron • Paws N Claws Eyewear Pbteen • PetKing • Puppy Love Glam • Vans • We-Care.com • West Elm • Zero Waste

For more information, contact Helene Gordon, 212-876-7700 ext. 4704 • helene.gordon@aspca.org

Untitled-10 1

Visit us at Booth A41 5/22/2013 3:40:11 PM

Licensing Show 2013

COMPILED

BY JENNIFER LYNCH

The following companies represent a sampling of what will be on display at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas during this year’s Licensing International Expo.

Activision Publishing

Skylanders Swap Force introduces an all-new play pattern that lets gamers reconfigure 16 Swap Force interaction figures into more than 250 unique characters by swapping the top and bottom halves of the toys. Players can mix and match characters’ powers and moves and experience an unprecedented level choice previously unseen in a Skylanders game. Fans also can play Skylanders Swap Force with their entire collection of characters from Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure and Skylanders Giants.

The Skylanders franchise was created by Activision Publishing, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision Blizzard, Inc. Activision announced earlier in the year that together Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure and Skylanders Giants have generated more than $1 billion in retail sales worldwide, inclusive of toys and accessories. Among the 135 licensees already on board for Skylanders Swap Force are MEGA Bloks.

Skylanders Giants Happy Meals arrived at McDonald’s restaurants in April, marking Activision’s first-ever partnership with McDonald’s. The Skylanders Giants Happy Meal program offered customers who purchased a Happy Meal one of nine unique toys from Skylanders Giants, each with their own play feature, as well as a coupon for $10 off the Skylanders Giants starter pack.

To maximize awareness, McDonald’s supported the three-week promotion with a fully integrated marketing campaign that included branded television advertising, in-restaurant merchandising, custom packaging, and an online web and social media presence. The inaugural program will roll out in other select countries later this year.

CBS Consumer Products

CBS Consumer Products manages a diverse portfolio of 200-plus iconic properties, including the Star Trek franchise, which continues to grow this year with the theatrical release of Star Trek Into Darkness. Hasbro and Namco will lead retail activity for the franchise along with nearly 100 new licensees worldwide. Licensing initiatives also include a growing publishing program along with initiatives in food and beverage and co-branded collections.

Upcoming licensing programs for NCIS, Elementary, and The Good Wife lead CBS’ primetime initiatives, while The Little Rascals and The Honeymooners headline CBS’ Television City properties. The launch of international e-commerce platforms also furthers CBS Consumer Products’ reach into local markets and improves fans’ access to its properties.

American Greetings Properties

American Greetings Properties has many new initiatives planned for the U.S. and abroad. The Care Bears; Strawberry Shortcake, which recently introduced new character Huckleberry Pie; and Holly Hobbie serve as the cornerstone brands for AGP. Newer properties such as Boofle, a pup made out of grandpa’s sweater that appeals to a wide demographic; Packages from Planet X, a comical mystery targeted at boys 7–11; and The WotWots, a preschool property that focuses on brother and sister aliens as they explore their new surroundings on Earth, round out the portfolio.

36

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Untitled-2 1

5/23/2013 9:53:38 AM

Licensing Show 2013

Discovery Communications

Over the next year, Discovery Communications’ Animal Planet will continue to build out its pet programs with the debut of new products as well as line extensions. Premium Pet Health has developed a complete line of all-natural Animal Planet Crunchy and Chewy Dog Treats made of 100 percent real meat and are grain-free. In conjunction with licensee Fantasia Accessories, Animal Planet will debut a line of dry grooming products designed to provide maximum comfort and safety for groomer and pet. Wet grooming products were introduced last year. Other recent licensees include FoodScience, which offers nutritional supplements chews for dogs and cats, and Merchsource, which continues to expand its lines of pet care products such as bedding, pet toys, and other items. Animal Planet will continue to grow its direct-to-retail partnership with Toys “R” Us by Cake Boss-branded bakeware introducing new products to the Animal Planet-branded toy line. Animal Planet recently introduced Hide & Seek Pets, its first interactive activity app for kids 3 and up, developed in partnership with Cupcake Digital. The sale of Animal Planet products fund R.O.A.R partnerships with organizations that protect domestic animals, wildlife, and their habitats.

Discovery Channel will expand its merchandising programs inspired by its top-rated broadcast programs including Moonshiners, Gold Rush, MythBusters, and the TV event Shark Week. The lines will focus on product from key categories, including soft goods, gift and novelty, and publishing.

Discovery also announced The Devils Ride consumer products program, in partnership with the show’s production company, to develop product for both the series and the motorcycle clubs featured on the past two seasons. The product program’s first licensee Changes will develop a line of apparel and accessories, including T-shirts, sweatshirts, fashion tops, belt buckles, dog tags, key chains, and bandanas. Plans are underway to extend the line later this year into after-market car and motorcycle accessories.

TLC’s Cake Boss brand continues to expand with new SKUs rolling out from Dawn Cakes, including ready-to-sell cupcakes, cake mixes, and fondant cakes, which will be available at grocery stores nationwide. TLC will also launch a line of Cake Boss-branded bakeware (Meyer) and party goods and stationery (Action Products).

Big Tent has inked several new deals that expand the Discovery Kids brand’s presence both at retail and online. New deals include partnerships with retail outlets, social media site Kazaana (digital interactive content), and licensees such as Basic Fun (View-Master), NKOK (arts and crafts and R/C), Quality Playing Cards (card games and playing cards), Merchsource (inflatable bowling sets, wall maze, and toy tablets), Masterpieces (paint-your-own wooden mobile), and Walgreens (outdoor activities assortment). Big Tent is seeking additional licensing partners for Discovery Kids in the following categories: video games, electronics, apparel, home décor, outdoor sporting goods, toy, food, and promotional partnerships.

Hasbro

Hasbro continues to extend the reach of its global brands including Transformers, Nerf, My Little Pony, Littlest Pet Shop, Monopoly, Play-Doh, Tonka, Magic the Gathering, and Furby. This year at Licensing Show, Hasbro will present branded play statements across all categories from fashion apparel, publishing, digital gaming, domestics, and youth electronics to plush, novelty, and trading cards.

38

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Such a Boy Scout.

You never know who might be a Boy Scout.

Boy Scouts come from all walks of life. They ride with veterans’ groups. They own businesses. They teach school. They perform, they design, they build. They may no longer wear their uniform, but they wear their Scouting experience with pride.

Since 1910, over 50 million living alumni and their families have connected with the Boy Scouts of America. Today, they are influencers and decision-makers, and their affinity for the Boy Scouts of America’s brands has never been stronger.

To learn more about the Boy Scouts of America’s licensing program visit www.scouting.org/licensing, call us at 800-323-0732, or email to licensing@scouting.org.

Boy Scouts of America | 800.323.0732 | licensing@scouting.org | www.scouting.org/licensing | Twitter: @bsalicensing

Untitled-3 1

5/28/2013 11:52:01 AM

Licensing Show 2013

DreamWorks Animation

Turbo

DreamWorks Animation (DWA) is now the hub for family-friendly IPs on a global scale, as the studio’s deep portfolio of new and classic franchise properties offers a wealth of opportunities across all categories. Led by master toy partner Mattel, the studio’s next franchise, Turbo, races into theaters July 17, followed by the debut of Turbo F.A.S.T., exclusively on Netflix this fall.

This year and beyond, properties inspiring theatrical and television franchises, including Turbo, Madagascar, How to Train Your Dragon, and The Croods, will lead the charge at retail along with the classic properties of Olivia and Where’s Waldo?, which is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary.

DWA continues to build its robust roster with new programming for feature films and franchises highlighted by a trio for 2014: Mr. Peabody & Sherman (March 7), How To Train Your Dragon 2 (June 18), and Happy Smekday! (working title, November 26). On the horizon, B.O.O.: Bureau of Otherworldly Operations and Trolls are poised to make their mark with audiences and at retail.

Kidz Bop

Kidz Bop kicked the summer off with all-new promotional partnerships, licensing agreements, consumer products, and live events. The newest volume in its best-selling audio series, Kidz Bop 24, will be available on July 16. The album includes 16 chart-topping hits sung by the Kidz Bop Kidz. The release will be supported by a major national TV campaign, online advertising, national radio campaigns, and more.

Timed to the release of Kidz Bop 24, Sonic will launch a four-week My Wacky Pack kids meal promotion in August. Kidz Bop-themed premiums will be distributed at more than 3,500 participating Sonic locations nationwide. The promotion will also feature a free song download for each kids meal purchased, in-restaurant signage, on-pack promotion, and custom online content.

Kidz Bop and Church & Dwight Co., the maker of Arm & Hammer Tooth Tunes, are launching a new line of musical toothbrushes featuring Kidz Bop music.

Kidz Bop and LeapFrog continue to distribute monthly downloadable content though LeapFrog’s digital app center for LeapPad 1, LeapPad 2, Leapster GS, and LeapReader platforms.

The Kidz Bop Pop Star toy line from Imperial and the Kidz Bop youth electronics line from Sakar will continue to roll out in the U.S. and Canada throughout 2013.

Kidz Bop is also teaming up with Six Flags to kick off its fourth annual Kidz Star USA Talent Search—for kids ages 15 and under. For the first time, kids can audition live by participating in this summer’s 10-city Official Live Audition Tour at Six Flags Theme Parks. The tour kicks off this month at Six Flags Great Adventure and wraps up in August at Six Flags Magic Mountain.

Starting this month KidzBop.com will be accessible via mobile devices with the launch of Kidz Bop Mobile. Following the mobile launch, Kidz Bop-branded apps will be released across multiple platforms.

With more than 25 live appearances and events booked in major markets throughout the U.S., fans can now see the Kidz Bop Kids perform live pop songs. Kidz Bop has partnered with The Agency Group, a leading booking agency, to bring the Kidz Bop Live Experience to cities across the U.S.

40

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Mild

You’ve got to licensee it to believe it! at

Firefly Brand Management Booth #H171 rachel@fireflybrandmanagement.com, 805-466-9229 Open categories: Apparel, Footwear, Headwear, Electronics, Interactive, Domestics Copyright Š Patch Products, Inc. All rights reserved.

Planet Sock Monkey and Monkey Up are trademarks of Patch Products, Inc.

Untitled-5 1

@PlanetSockMnkey facebook.com/PlanetSockMonkey planetsockmonkey.com

5/28/2013 11:58:21 AM

Licensing Show 2013 Striker Entertainment

Striker Entertainment will be featuring several new properties at Licensing Show including Divergent, the latest feature film franchise from Summit/Lionsgate based on the book series by Veronica Roth, and Catching Fire, the film sequel to The Hunger Games due in theaters November 22.

Striker will also feature AMC’s The Walking Dead, returning this fall for its fourth season and currently supported by more than 25 licensees; Need for Speed, from DreamWorks Studios based on the video game racing franchise from Electronic Arts; and the upcoming film Ender’s Game, based on the popular sci-fi book series.

Additional properties that will be featured include the Seth MacFarlane live-action feature film Ted; the critically acclaimed Netflix series House of Cards; Kick Ass 2, the upcoming feature film sequel based on the Mark Millar/John Romita Jr. comic book series; Ghost House Pictures’ Evil Dead; and new properties that will be revealed during Licensing Show.

Saban Brands

Saban Brands continues the year-long celebration of the Power Rangers franchise’s 20th anniversary. Saban debuted its all-new series on Nickelodeon, Power Rangers Megaforce, early this year. With more than 190 licensees, the brand is building with new Power Rangers Megaforce-licensed products and limited-edition anniversary and “throwback” Mighty Morphin Power Rangers products for kids and collectors.

Saban Brands has applied a robust global strategy since its acquisition of Paul Frank in 2010 that has amplified the brand with more than 150 strategic partnerships and collaborations. In addition to retail partners in-store and online, Paul Frank product is available in its more than 60 stand-alone stores worldwide.

The company continues to acquire and develop digital channels for its audience as well. Following its acquisition of Zui.com, Saban announced plans to globalize the property by launching the first-ever worldwide network of kidconnected sites with powerful parental controls. Saban Brands’ digital arm, The Playforge, continues to expand its footprint with a steady stream of new games, including Eat Eat Hooray!, which launched last month, and additional titles launching this year. In addition, Saban Brands has made the five-hour action, adventure, and comedy TV block Vortexx, which airs on The CW every Saturday, available to kids all week long through MyVortexx.com. The site features hundreds of episodes, games, points, rewards, and more.

Saban announced its new animated series Digimon Fusion will begin airing on Nickelodeon this year, while Julius Jr., a new animated preschool series inspired by the Paul Frank family of characters, will also launch on Nick Jr. (U.S.) this year. Also for Julius Jr., Saban signed Fisher-Price to serve as the global master toy licensee.

SMC Entertainment Group

SMC Entertainment Group, Inc. (SMC), continues to grow its portfolio of licensees for the 3-D, CGI animated series The Jungle Book. Currently airing in 165 countries around the world, the property continues to expand and diversify its licensing offerings with six new partners. New U.S. licensees include Inkology (stationery and activity products), Kellytoy (amusement plush characters), Newcastle Fabric (fleece blankets and knits), and LA Rug (children’s play rugs), as well as Newco International for children’s upholstered furniture, bean bags, bean bag chairs, toy boxes, foam furniture, adult furniture, nightstands, desks, and dressers. Other SMC properties available for licensing include Angry Little Girls!, H20 Just Add Water, and Dance Academy.

42

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

WE’RE THE #1 MUSIC BRAND FOR KIDS! AGES 5-12

FOR MARKETING AND LICENSING INQUIRIES, CONTACT: The social network and video site for kids

Sasha Junk (212) 598-2200 sjunk@kidzbop.com

© 2013 Kidz Bop, LLC. “KIDZ BOP” and “Kidz Bop Kids” are registered trademarks of Kidz Bop, LLC. All rights reserved.

Untitled-4 1

5/28/2013 11:56:33 AM

Licensing Show 2013 Technicolor

The Deep

Technicolor will be presenting a new children’s TV property, The Deep, which is based on the international hit graphic novel series of the same name, created by writer Tom Taylor and published by Gestalt Comics. Technicolor debuted the new animated adventure TV series to international television buyers earlier this year and plans to develop a global consumer products program for the property, which targets kids ages 8–12.

The new television series, currently in development on 26 half-hour episodes, follows the Nekton family of adventurers as they explore unchartered areas of the Earth’s oceans and seek to unravel the mysteries of the deep sea.

Scholastic Media

As Clifford the Big Red Dog’s 50th anniversary celebration continues, 2013 will see new product releases for the brand including apparel (Hybrid Apparel and JCorp, Inc.), bedding and bath (American Homes & Textiles), food and beverage (Color-A-Cookie and Hansen), publishing (Scholastic and Bendon), plush toys and fashion accessories (Douglas), board games (Patch Products), science kits (Young Scientists Club), amusement toys (A&A Global), plush rocker (Foland Group), and bookmarks (Andrews Blaine). In addition, Buffets, Inc., will become an underwriter for the Clifford The Big Red Dog television Clifford decorated cookies series on PBS Kids. Clifford will also receive promotional support at all Buffets, Inc., from Color-A-Cookie restaurants this year including Clifford-branded activities, placemats, stickers, and coloring books for customers at locations nationwide.

I Spy will receive new QSR restaurant promotions for the iconic seek-and-find franchise in the U.S., including Wendy’s, Popeye’s, and Sonic.

Briarpatch will release three new I Spy games, and the I Spy Spooky Mansion for Leapster Explorer along with new apps for the LeapFrog App Center will launch in 2014.

The Magic School Bus will see the release of The Magic School Bus: Dinosaurs for Leapster Explorer this fall and Young Scientists Club will release two new kits—Weather Lab and Exploring the Wonders of Nature.

The Goosebumps franchise continues to expand with new Halloween costumes and masks from Gemmy, along with new books from Scholastic and T-shirts from Local Celebrity. Ralcorp will feature an on-pack Goosebumps book offer on three million boxes of cereal and crackers for back to school. Internationally, Wendy’s will feature Goosebumps-branded premiums in its kids’ meals at more than 160 locations, including Mexico and New Zealand.

Kids Station, Baby King, and Tara Toys will release new Scholastic-branded product, including educational science kits, infant development toys, and games and puzzles.

Scholastic’s WordGirl will receive promotional support at all Buffets, Inc., restaurants in 2013 including WordGirl-branded activities, placemats, stickers, bookmarks, and reading logs for customers at locations nationwide.

Scholastic Media is also actively seeking partners for the rest of its brand portfolio including The 39 Clues, Flyguy, Maya & Miguel, Animorphs, Turbo dogs, and Dear America.

44

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Untitled-4 1

5/22/2013 3:27:07 PM

Licensing Show 2013

The Collective

The Collective Digital Studio and its licensing agents, which include The Joester Loria Group (TJLG)(North America), Rocket Licensing (UK), and Gaffney Global Licensing and Stella Projects (Australia and New Zealand), will debut new licensees and expand new merchandise programs for Annoying Orange, the YouTube phenomenon created by Dane Boedigheimer featuring an annoying Orange who playfully heckles other animated fruits, vegetables, or nearby objects with puns and jokes. An animated series based on the web show, produced by The Collective Digital Studio and written by Tom Sheppard (Pinky and the Brain, Animaniacs) debuted on Cartoon Network in the U.S. last year. The series is also set to move into multiple international territories.

In conjunction with licensing agent TJLG, Collective Digital Studio continues to expand its U.S.-based publishing program. HarperCollins will launch a series of Annoying Orange joke books for kids debuting this fall. Papercutz will also release a second Annoying Orange graphic novel later this year.

In the UK, Rocket Licensing is working on several opportunities for the brand including for toys and publishing. The latest licensee is Pedigree Books, which joins Underground Toys (toys), Egmont UK, (publishing), TV Mania (kids’ apparel), Poetic Gem (adult apparel), Morphsuits (Morphsuits), and PMS (amusement toys). The show is expected to begin airing in the UK soon.

In Australia and New Zealand, the TV series has been licensed to ABC3 and the home video to Roadshow Entertainment. Toys are distributed by Moose Toys and T-shirts will be sold into Target stores by Casco Blu later this year. Other partners include Bensons Trading for carnival products and Legends for bedding in specialty. New categories being sought by Gaffney Global Licensing and Stella Projects include confectionary, publishing, novelty items, and bags and accessories.

Meredith Corporation

Meredith Corporation Brand Licensing will be showcasing the company’s portfolio of powerful consumer brands including Better Homes and Gardens and Parents as well as Allrecipes.com, Family Circle, EatingWell, and Successful Farming, which are new to the licensing market.

Better Homes and Gardens extends across print, social media, the web, tablet, mobile, broadcast, and broadband, serving and connecting women who are passionate about their homes and the lives they create there. The brand represents the largest paid monthly magazine in the U.S., and has currently has 3,500-plus branded home products at Walmart, furniture by Universal, flowers and plants by FTD, and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate in partnership with Realogy Corporation.

Parents is the leading voice for a community of more than 15 million moms who are engaged and inspired by the brand’s trusted content. The multiplatform brand is dedicated to engaging and inspiring moms with the information they need, wherever they go.

Allrecipes.com is the world’s leading digital food brand that reaches family-focused women who connect and inspire one another through photos, reviews, videos, and blog posts. Allrecipes is a global, multi-platform brand extending across 18 websites, 18 mobile sites, 11 mobile apps, and 14 eBooks serving 23 countries in 12 languages.

EatingWell is a leading source of science-based nutrition advice, delicious, easy and healthy recipes, and useful shopping information. The diversified brand is produced over multiple formats, including a website, custom publishing, consumer cookbooks, and health books.

46

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

offiCiAl trAding CArd Artwork AvAilAble for the firSt time ever

plAy to win with

the worldwide phenomenon for over 12 yeArS hAS A new look to liCenSe. prodUCt lAUnChing in JUly At SAn diego ComiC Con.

©1996 Kazuki Takahashi ©1996 Kazuki Takahashi ©2011 NAS • TV TOKYO

VISIT US aT BOOTH C135

North America: Jennifer Coleman at jcoleman@4kmedia.com • 00 1 212-590-2100 Europe: Sandra Arcan at saukar255888@konami.com • +44 1753 271 721

www.yugioh.com

Licensing Show 2013

Pretty Ugly LLC

Mimoco, makers of the Mimibot line of designer USB flash drives, will introduce a brand new character in the Uglydoll x Mimibot line: Big Toe Mimibot. Available in up to 128GB and in USB 3.0 capabilities, the USB flash drive comes preloaded with bonus “Mimory” and the MimoDesk personalization suite of wallpapers, icons, and avatars. Big Toe joins Babo, Wage, Ice-Bat, and OX in the existing Uglydoll x Mimibot collection, which was released at last year’s New York Comic-Con. Pretty Ugly has also signed deals with Boldface Group, Inc., to expand Uglydoll to a range of beauty and personal care products and with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, on behalf of DC Entertainment, for a co-branded collaboration with DC Comics Super Heroes and Uglydoll characters.

Mattel

American Greetings partners with Mattel to introduce a line of Barbie-themed ornaments. The collection will feature 14 designs including a commemorative 25th anniversary Holiday Barbie ornament. The line will be available this fall at select mass, specialty, and drug retailers nationwide and at americangreetings.com. From Franco Manufacturing comes a line of Barbie bedding and accessories. Inspired by the Barbie in the Pink Shoes movie, the collection features Barbie ballerina-themed sheets, comforters, blankets, throws, and pillows. Mood Entertainment launched a line of Barbie World Tour Party Mix and Holiday Party Mix albums. The albums feature popular hit songs performed by kids. Launching this fall, the Barbie App-tastic Cash Register from Kid Designs features an LCD screen, working keypad, and cash drawer. Kids can download the companion iOS app to scan real UPC codes, create personalized membership cards, and more. The MEGA Bloks Barbie construction line will launch the new MEGA Bloks Barbie Rock Star Stage playset this fall, complete with amplifiers, glittering blocks, and a sparkling disco ball.

Elan Polo International is launching Monster High footwear for back to school this year. The line will include high-top sneakers, vulcanized canvas rocker boots, moto booties, and slippers, detailed with iconic Monster High art such as a glitter Skullette logo, coffin-shaped gem stones, and more.

Now available in Canadian Walmart locations, Calego International has created a Monster High line of luggage, featuring hard shell rolling suitcases with imagery of fan-favorite ghouls Frankie Stein, Clawdeen Wolf, and Draculaura. Franco Manufacturing also created a Monster High-themed line of bedding and bathroom accessories. Products range from sheets and comforters to blankets, pillows, towels, shower curtains, and more.

Bivona & Company has introduced a line of Fisher-Price nursery furniture that grows with baby from crib to toddler bed to day bed to full-sized bed.

Select cribs will feature Just the Right Height adjustable legs for three different crib heights. Furniture will be offered in eight styles and three colors: snow white, cherry, and espresso. Also available are mattress and contour pads. In conjunction with Hunter Amenities, Fisher-Price introduced a new line of bath and body products uniquely formulated for newborns, infants, and toddlers. Products are made with natural and organic ingredients.

Mood Entertainment launched a new line of Fisher-Price board books, tailored for infants and toddlers to accompany its current music program for the property. Fisher-Price partners with TCG to introduce a new line of preschool games that will leverage some of the brand’s iconic toys. Grow-withMe game levels provide advancing difficulty and complexity as a child’s skills develop. The line will launch this fall.

Launching this summer the Camelio tablet by Vivatar is taken to the next level by Sakar and Mattel, letting Barbie, Monster High, and Hot Wheels fans personalize their tablets through Vivitar’s personality packs. Personality Packs include branded apps, content, wallpaper, widgets, as well as a branded themed case. The packs will be available this fall.

48

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 10AM–3PM METROPOLITAN PAVILION *new location* 125 W. 18TH STREET, NEW YORK, NY

This one-day event give exhibitors the opportunity to showcase products in front of all key media, encompassing print, broadcast, and online media as well as the most influential parenting bloggers.

Time to Play will unveil its coveted Most Wanted List, the hottest trends, properties, and video games for the season.

To reserve your space today, contact:

Bob Glaser 646.763.8720 bob@anbmedia.com

Untitled-3 1

Donna Moore 646.763.8718 donna@anbmedia.com

5/30/2013 3:36:03 PM

Licensing Show 2013

Brand Central

Brand Central is seeking new opportunities for both new and existing clients. In the food and beverage category, the agency currently represents Dr Pepper Snapple Group; Necco Candy; and Beekman 1802, the brand behind The Fabulous Beekman Boys reality TV show and winners of The Amazing Race.

Fitness, wellness, and lifestyle brands represented by Brand Central include eco-home brand Seventh Generation, yoga and wellness lifestyle brand Gaiam, and personal health and wellness pioneer Dr. Andrew Weil. Brand Central is also showcasing its new partnership with Miraval Resort & Spa and a new brand in the company’s lifestyle division: Cupcakes and Cashmere footwear brand Eastland. The Eastland brand is specifically seeking partners across lifestyle products ranging from creator Emily Schuman apparel to accessories.

In the digital arena, the company represents home blog Apartment Therapy and the recently signed blog Cupcakes and Cashmere, which focuses on fashion, food, interior design, travel, and beauty. Cupcakes and Cashmere is ideally suited for licensees and retailers seeking a fashion brand targeted for millennials, according to Brand Central. Brand Central has also announced a new partnership with food blog Spoon Fork Bacon.

In its home and baby division, Brand Central represents First Alert and celebrity nursery stylists Samantha Winch and Nina Takesh, owners of the high-end baby boutique Petit Trésor (with agency ACI).

In outdoor recreation, Brand Central continues to seek partners on behalf of The Jarden Corporation for its roster of brands, which include Coleman camping, K2 skiing, Ride snowboards, Marmot, Rawlings, Berkley Fishing, and Shakespeare Fishing.

Brand Central is also seeking partnerships for current entertainment clients. This includes Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, ABC’s daytime cooking show The Chew, Pee-wee Herman, and IPs from Mark Burnett and One Three Media (a venture between Hearst and Burnett) including Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader?, The Apprentice, and One Three Media’s newest game show, debuting on TBS this fall, Trust Me I’m a Game Show Host. Brand Central also recently signed on to represent Shine America, producers of Fox’s MasterChef. With Brand Central, MasterChef will extend its consumer reach through kitchen consumer products and food and beverage categories.

D3M Licensing Group

Flo Rida

Strong Arm Management has signed a deal with D3M Licensing Group (D3M), granting the company global rights for licensing and endorsements for hip hop artist Flo Rida (pictured). Strong Arm, a management company founded by Lee Prince, is home to Flo Rida and emerging stars such as StayC, Tyler Medeiros, Whyl Chyl, Team Phlyte, and more. D3M will leverage its network to extend the brand into key categories, including apparel, accessories, health and fitness, consumer electronics, music-related products, and more. The team is negotiating endorsement deals with brands looking to tap into Flo Rida’s fan-base.

This year, Flo Rida was contracted to perform at corporate venues for Samsung, The Coca-Cola Co., T-Mobile, and BlackBerry. He currently has a deal with Beamz Interactive to produce a series of Flo Rida interactive music products and, in tandem with D3M, a deal to create unique brand experiences at retail and beyond using the latest FuelAR technology.

Flo Rida has collaborated with musical artists including T-Pain, Ke$ha, David Guetta, Sia, and more, across musical genres. Among his most popular songs are “Low,” “Right Round,” “Club Can’t Handle Me,” “Good Feeling,” “Whistle,” and “Wild Ones (featuring Sia).” He is the founder of Big Dreams For Kids Foundation and co-founder of the Florida Youth Football League and works with Think Pink Rocks. The Flo Fit gym will open in Miami this year.

50

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

SPD Brands

SPD Brands announced new licenses for its lineup of properties, which include Heart Girl, a whimsical character based on the simple premise that little girls love to draw hearts; Flight Patterns, a collection of original travel-centric designs inspired by the three-letter airport designation codes; and Malibu Life, which captures the casual luxury and affluent lifestyle of the Southern California beachfront community.

The Licensing Group, on behalf of SPD Brands, has brokered the following deals with Italy’s Multi-Print (Malibu Life back-to-school items), McSteven’s, Inc. (Heart Girl hot chocolate drinks), Glittertainment (Heart Girl temporary glitter tattoos), Zing Revolution (Heart Girl, Malibu Life, and Flight Patterns skins for mobile devices), and Card Corporation (VISA and MasterCard debit cards featuring Malibu Life and Flight Patterns.)

The Licensing Group will be seeking additional partners for the brands in apparel, stationery, accessories, games, and publishing.

The Jim Henson Company

The Jim Henson Company is officially launching the licensing and merchandising campaign for its preschool CG-animated series Doozers, which focuses on the three-inch tall Doozers of Doozer Creek. Henson is seeking partners across all key categories including toys, publishing, apparel, and social expression. Last September, Henson signed Turner Broadcasting EMEA to air the series in most territories across EMEA on Turner Broadcasting’s preschool channel, Cartoonito, beginning this fall. In October, Henson appointed product licensing rights for EMEA to Turner Enterprises. Henson also licensed the series to Discovery Kids Latin America.

Chatter Zoo characters Chatter Zoo (working title) will also debut at Licensing Show. Created by Alex Rockwell (Pajanimals), the series is an interactive preschool show featuring four baby animals in their habitat at the Zippertown Zoo. Set to debut this summer, the show will first be introduced through an app-based episode developed by kids’ mobile developer Mindshapes. Henson signed a licensing agreement with Sassy to develop a broad line of infant development toys and products based on the Chatter Zoo characters and Zippertown Zoo. Henson is partners for infant apparel, accessories, and room décor.

Dinosaur Train continues to roll out its licensing and merchandising program. New U.S. licensee TDG & Associates will introduce a line of healthy toddler meals and snacks for major grocery stores and mass-market retailers for fall 2014. The Dinosaur Train Live touring theater show will kick off this fall. Rail Events will expand its Dinosaur Train U.S. tour schedule for 2013. Cranston Fabrics will also introduce new fabric collections in the U.S. New deals were also brokered for the brand by its agencies in the UK and Ireland (Nickelodeon and Viacom Consumer Products), Spain (Selecta Vision) and Italy (Dall’Angelo Pictures SRL).

New licensees for the animated musical preschool series, Pajanimals, in the U.S. include Briarpatch (games and puzzles), BuySeasons, (party goods); Clothworks (fabrics), Running Press (picture books and more), Bentex (sleepwear), Planet Sox (socks), and California Costumes (infant/toddler Halloween costumes). In Australia, master toy licensee TOMY has already launched products at Target and ABC Stores alongside the show’s DVD releases from Beyond Home Entertainment.

The 30th anniversary celebration of Fraggle Rock continues with 30 brands, designers, and artists for the Dance Your Cares Away celebration with product rolling out throughout the year.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

51

Licensing Show 2013

Warner Bros. Consumer Products

Warner Bros. Consumer Products is signing licensing partners for 2014’s highly anticipated movie, Godzilla, across a variety of categories including toys, apparel and accessories, costumes, and publishing.

Man of Steel hits theaters in June and its global master toy licensee Mattel is serving up an extensive toy line including action figures, vehicles, playsets, and collectible figures. LEGO, Rubie’s Costume Co., and Under Armour, among others, also offer fans additional product to engage with the film.

This summer’s 300: Rise of an Empire, which builds on the legacy of 300, already has a number of licensees on Mattel’s Man of Steel action figure board. Among the partners are Noble (prop replicas), Museum Replicas (replica costumes), Changes (T-shirts and accessories), Trends (posters and calendars), Funko (figures and bobbleheads), Tonner (collectible dolls), and more.

Master toy partner Jazwares, along with Mattel and USAopoly, are among the partners helping to celebrate the 75th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz. New licensees include Dylan’s Candy Bar, Philosophy, Julep, Kurt Adler, Accutime, and more.

DC Comics Super Heroes has new partners to support the DC Comics properties, including Lauren Moshi (high-end casual women’s apparel), Uglydoll (plush figures), and Pez (candy dispensers inspired by the Justice League). The new TV property, Teen Titans Go!, has inspired a licensing program with support from master toy partner Jazwares and others.

The Big Bang Theory also maintains support for its merchandising program from retailers and licensees alike, including Hot Topic and Ripple Junction.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a fully immersive themed attraction currently at Universal Orlando Resort, is set to open at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Japan. Harry Potter: The Exhibition, currently headed to Tokyo with additional stops planned for 2013 and beyond, continues to bring the Harry Potter experience around the world with a state-of-the-art interactive exhibition highlighting artifacts from the Warner Bros. films based on J.K. Rowling’s book series.

Sprout

The 24-hour preschool network Sprout has retained Big Tent Entertainment as its U.S. licensing agency of record. Big Tent will represent the network to develop a fully integrated Sprout presence at retail and create a consumer products program for kids ages 2–5 under the Sprout brand. In addition, Big Tent will help introduce product based on the network’s growing roster of original programs including The Chica Show and The Goodnight Show.

Sprout recently launched an all-new online retail experience at www.shopsprout.com, powered by CafePress. The online shop showcases designs that feature a range of products, including Sprout-branded apparel and plush toys, puzzles, DVDs as well as iPad and iPhone accessories featuring the network’s favorite characters such as Chica.

Sprout recently announced several upcoming new shows to its lineup including Ruff-Ruff, Tweet and Dave, Boj, Tree Fu Tom, and Driftwood Bay as well as the second season pick-up of The Chica Show. LazyTown is also returning to Sprout for a third season.

Additionally, Sprout continues its digital expansion with more than 150 new online games introduced just this year along with a growing library of mobile apps to keep preschoolers engaged with their favorite Sprout shows, including The Chica Show and Pajanimals. Sprout also launched a “video jukebox” microsite at sproutonline.com/sprout-tunes, which features more than 40 full-length music videos from Sprout favorites, including Laurie Berkner.

52

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Sync Beatz Entertainment

Sync Beatz Entertainment and Bandai Co., Ltd. are re-energizing Tamagotchi, the iconic 1990s toy as an adult-targeted fashion and lifestyle brand, Tamagotchi L.i.f.e. (Love Is Fun Everywhere). The multi-faceted brand initiative began with the launch of its website in November 2012 and the establishment of its Hometown Heroes program, where fans can nominate someone making a measurable difference in their community.

The Tamagotchi L.i.f.e. app successfully launched on iOS and Android earlier this year, recreating the classic Tamagotchi gameplay. As of late April, the app has surpassed more than 2 million downloads–1.2 million on the iOS platform since its release on March 28, and another 850,000 on the Android platform since its release on February 14.

The next phase for the brand will be introducing branded products in a wide range of key categories including apparel, home décor, stationery, and accessories.

Synchronocity

Synchronocity announced that the bestselling book Parenting: Illustrated with Crappy Pictures by blogger Amber Dusick is available for licensing. Published by Harlequin, the book launched in March. In her blog of the same name, Dusick shares her funny and insightful take on life’s everyday and not-so-everyday trials and tribulations of being a parent, illustrated with “crappy” pictures.

The brand is seeking partners for calendars, journals, stationery, greeting cards, infant products, Tshirts, bags, gift wrap, and more.

The Bark magazine and its Dog Is My Co-Pilot are also available for licensing. Considered “The New Yorker for dog lovers,” The Bark is suited for upscale dog accessories, pet toys and bedding, puzzles, calendars, journals, and more. Dog Is My Co-Pilot bumper stickers, magnets, mugs, glassware, pillows, and T-shirts are coming soon.

Highlights of the Tootsie Roll Candy Brands program include SRM’s Tootsie Pop Ice Pop and Tootsie Roll Lollipop Makers, Masterpiece Puzzle’s set of Tootsie Roll and Blow Pop photo collage 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles, Lotta Luv’s Blow Pop lip balm, and more. Synchronicity and Valero Enterprises announced that the Tootsie Roll Candy Brands has joined forces with The Public Zoo for a new licensing program, The Public Zoo in Tootsie Land. Pop artist and Bobby Jack brand creator Han Lee has imagined a world where Tootsie Rolls, Tootsie Pops, and Dots candies come to life. The companies will team up for licensing across all categories for juniors, tweens, kids, and adults. Valero will head up international efforts.

New to the Wham-O toy and surf brands licensees is Bailey Apparel with T-shirts for young men, juniors, and kids. Bailey Apparel offers a line of Morey Boogie and Boogie Board tops. Kiloo’s Frisbee Forever 1 and 2 apps continue to find worldwide success. Frisbee scratch Games of Summer lottery tickets will also go on sale in Virginia this month.

Both Target and Walmart will feature Sassy Slang greeting cards by Recycled Paper Greetings beginning this fall. Walmart will carry Sassy Slang notebooks and portfolios for back to school. Additional products include NBSP’s can and bottle coolies; giant and regular lighters, and cases, which will be available at Dollar General; Sassy and Sporty Slang Roxo charms for Roxo band bracelets; and bowling balls from Leading Edge. Slang Brand’s UK agent Bulldog Licensing brokered two deals: Poetic Gem for T-shirts, nightwear and daywear, and Portico for greeting cards and calendars.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

53

Licensing Show 2013

The Licensing Shop

Moose Toys, creator of The Trash Pack, will debut its proprietary girl brand The Zelfs at Licensing Show.

The Zelfs line of collectible dolls, which focus on fashion and hair play, will roll out this fall with small, medium, and large dolls featuring 12 key characters and play sets. Each character is uniquely identified by their spikey hair and special power represented by a “Zelfmark.” The launch of the program will be supported with a marketing campaign including TV advertising, a dedicated website, social media, webisodes, live events, and public relations outreach. The Zelfs licensing program will be represented by The Licensing Shop, Inc. Get Set Games, Inc., IPs Mega Jump and Mega Run brands, along with their star character Redford will also be represented by The Licensing Shop. The games tell the story of Redford, a small red monster with huge shiny eyes and a toothy grin, who spends his time trying to save his brother and sister from his nasty King Uncle and making his way back to his home planet.

Jakks Pacific

Based on the anticipated live-action film The Smurfs 2, Jakks Pacific will release a new lineup of collectible figures, plush, fashion dolls, and playsets. The detailed 2.75-inch The Smurfs 2 Movie Figures will feature more than 24 different figures to collect, while the 7.5-inch Movie Mushroom House playsets bring to life the houses of favorite Smurfs characters. Jakks will also introduce The Smurfs Micro Village, a line of highly detailed one-inch figures and playsets with connecting platforms. The Smurfs line will be available at Toys “R” Us, Target, Walmart, and Kmart.

Jakks brings iconic superheroes and villains to life with new 31-inch Collectible Action Figures, featuring seven points of El Chavo articulation and highly detailed features. Available this year is the all-new MegaForce Red Power Ranger and 31-inch Giant Darth Vader, which is also available in a Deluxe Edition complete with a lightsaber with lights and sounds. DC Comics fans can also collect the Man of Steel and a new variation of Batman from The Dark Knight Trilogy.

Jakks will introduce a toy line based on the popular Spanish-language comedy series El Chavo, which was made famous by comic Roberto Gómez Bolaños more than four decades ago. It is now a top family property among Latinos worldwide. The line will include an 18-inch Parlanchin El Chavo doll (pictured) as well as 12-inch soft dolls, packaged with a DVD featuring a full-length Spanish language episode of El Chavo; 2.75-inch collectible figures; five-inch vinyl toys; finger puppets, and El Chavo’s iconic green hat, available in adult and kid sizes.

This fall, Jakks will launch a roleplay, dress-up, and plush line for Disney Junior’s all-new animated TV series Sofia the First. Little girls will love dressing up in Sofia’s dazzling tiara and beautiful gown that transforms into a tutu. Additional roleplay items will be included in the line as well as plush products featuring Sofia’s furry friends like Clover the Rabbit and a Sofia Soft Doll.

To mark Cabbage Patch Kids’ 30th anniversary this year, Jakks is introducing Cabbage Patch Kids Celebration Kids dolls dressed in party-themed fashions with brightly colored hair streaks.

Tollytots, a division of Jakks, will introduce a new line of Little Mermaid toys including Under the Sea Surprise Ariel, Secret Reveal Ariel, Ariel’s Bath Vanity, Magical Mermaid Kitchen, and Ariel Musical Light Up Dress. Tollytots will also bring Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood to life this summer with a product line for preschoolers, debuting at Toys “R” Us.

54

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Sesame Workshop

Sesame Workshop continues its partnership with Hasbro. Hasbro’s Playskool brand will feature a full range of Sesame Street characters, including the new Big Hugs Elmo, which can actually hug kids back, and the Sesame Street Roads & Rails collection, which includes three vehicle-themed playsets featuring Elmo, Ernie, or Cookie Monster.

Sesame Workshop has partnered with Qualcomm to create the app Big Bird’s Words app, available this year. The app features the first-ever use of Qualcomm Vuforia augmented-reality platform’s text recognition capability. Within the app, children are guided via the use of a virtual “wordoscope” to search for and find new words in their environment, helping to build their vocabulary in an interactive way.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Big Bird in China, the iconic one-hour special. Sesame Workshop is celebrating with special events, a social media campaign, and online activity.

Also, a new indoor themed ride, Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase, made its debut at Universal Studios Singapore this year.

Knockout Licensing

Knockout Licensing announced the appointment of sub-agents in the UK, France, and Australia for Boo—The World’s Cutest Dog. MJA Licensing was appointed for France and Grahame Allan Company Pty. Ltd. will manage the program in Australia. Caroline Mickler Ltd. was appointed in the UK and Ireland and has already signed deals for the property with Blueprint Collections Ltd. (writing instruments, pencil cases, stationery sets, notebooks, notecards, storage boxes, stickers, book bags, and more) and Global Licensing (adult T-shirts). MJA Licensing was appointed to oversee the Boo licensing program in France.

Knockout Licensing also announced five new licensees for Boo, including Bentex Group (children’s swimwear), Department 56 (holiday ornaments, mugs, figurines, and waterglobes), Enterplay LLC (collectible Fun Packs comprised of mini-games, mini-figurines, charms, and more), SGFootwear/SGI Apparel (children’s sleepwear and footwear), and Trends International LLC (posters).

For Downton Abbey, Knockout Licensing has signed a trio of new licensees. Bradford Exchange will design and manufacture figurines and collector dolls based on Downton Abbey characters. Danbury Mint, a division of MBI, Inc., will create a line of fine jewelry based on jewelry featured in the show, which will be sold directly to consumers online and by mail. And Kurt S. Adler, Inc., was granted the license to make and sell a range of Downton Abbey holiday décor, including hanging ornaments, stockings, stocking hangers, light sets, water globes, nutcrackers, and more.

As Downton Abbey’s North American agency, Knockout Licensing is actively seeking additional partners for categories such as home furnishings, including home décor and bedding, kitchen accessories, lighting, timepieces, tableware, and formal attire.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

55

Licensing Show 2013

K’NEX

K’NEX is expanding its line of Nintendo Super Mario building sets with new additions inspired by titles such as New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Super Mario 3DLand, and New Super Mario Bros. 2. Now available is the new Super Mario Bros. Wii Mystery Figure Bags Series 1 for ages 6 and up. Additional figure packs launching this fall include Super Mario Mystery Figure Bags Series 2, Super Mario: Figure 3-Packs, and Super Mario: Enemy Assortment. For ages 8 and up, K’NEX will also launch four new building sets, such as the Super Mario: Cannon Building Set, which features exclusive jump panels to attempt to dodge Bullet Bill as Mario is fired from the cannon. The set also features a star, warp pipe, flag, and coins.

K’NEX will also introduce a line of building toys inspired by the new animated series Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures, premiering on Disney XD this fall. The line will feature seven SKUs, including the PACMAN and the Ghostly Adventures: Mystery Figure Packs Series 1, which features the characters Pac, Cylindria, Spiral, Inky, Blinky, Pinky, and Clyde.

All figures are sold separately and compatible with the entire Pac-Man line of K’NEX products. Mystery packs also include an evil minion ghost and a display stand that allows the ghost to “float.” This and other items in the line will be timed to the show’s launch this fall.

Universal Partnerships & Licensing

Universal Partnerships & Licensing (UP&L) has a slate of properties available for licensing, retail, and promotional partnerships at this year’s Licensing Show. Despicable Me 2, in theaters July 3, is an all-new animated adventure featuring Gru, his girls, and his vast army of Minions that has already attracted a number of licensees including Thinkway Toys, Hasbro, and Gameloft. In addition, a spin-off installment of the same franchise, Minions, is also planned for release by Illumination and Universal on December 19, 2014.

Also due out is the long-awaited Jurassic Park 4. The studio has pushed back the release date, which was originally scheduled for June 2014. Director Steven Spielberg returns to produce the epic 3-D action-adventure. In February Hasbro was named the master toy licensee for the film. Hasbro was given the rights to develop a wide variety of toys including figures, plush, dolls, playsets, vehicles, roleplay, games, KRE-O-branded building sets, and novelty items.

Illumination Entertainment will also make announcements about an all-new, original 3-D film in July 2015 following the box office success of its previous films including Despicable Me, Hop, Dr. Seuss’ the Lorax, and the upcoming releases of Despicable Me 2 and Minions.

WowWee

WowWee is seeking licensing partners for its Once Upon a Zombie brand, based on new property created by Toon Studio of Beverly Hills. The line of Once Upon a Zombie fully articulated 11-inch dolls puts a zombie spin to the classic fairytale princess characters.

56

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

The Wiggles

2013 marks a new era for children’s entertainment group, The Wiggles, with new cast members Emma (Yellow Wiggle), Simon (Red Wiggle), and Lachy (Purple Wiggle) joining veteran Blue Wiggle Anthony.

Emma Watkins is the first-ever female Wiggle. The Wiggles head out on their Taking Off! world tour this summer. The tour’s North American leg kicks off mid-August and runs through October.

The Wiggles’ new Taking Off! album was released in North America this spring and the Taking Off! DVD is due out later this summer. The Taking Off! album plays like a full Wiggles concert and includes songs from the new television show Ready, Steady, Wiggle!, airing on Sprout and Treehouse TV (Canada) this fall.

The Wiggles will also launch new licensed products this fall from licensees including master toy partner Wicked Cool Toys, video and music partners NCircle Entertainment and Razor & Tie, and entertainment partners Sprout, Sirius, and Corus Entertainment (Canada). Deals were brokered by The Wiggles’ licensing agent Brandberry.

NBC Universal

Based on Monk, the comedic detective mystery series that originally aired on USA from 2002–2009, Penguin Group is releasing the hard cover book Mr. Monk Helps Himself this month. This is the 16th book in the series about the obsessive-compulsive police detective Adrien Monk.

Dynamic Forces launched a line of Grimm comic books and graphic novels last month, with a free inaugural issue for Free Comic Book Day to kick off the monthly series. The books and novels are based on Grimm, the police drama TV series inspired by the Grimm Brothers’ Fairy Tales.

Fitness Ridge World Wide is bringing The Biggest Loser to Chicago this month with the opening of The Biggest Loser Resort Chicago. Guests can experience a structured calorie-controlled program crafted to foster a positive lifestyle change.

Created for men and women of all ages and fitness levels, as well as ages 14 and up, The Biggest Loser Resort features spa cuisine meals, nutrition classes, trainers, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, spa treatments, a pool, and more. Body Media has also created the Core 2 Armband, an activity/health tracker armband originally used by The Biggest Loser contestants. The small wearable multisensor device is the first to offer a choice on interchangeable jewelry-like faceplates, straps, and cuffs. It will also feature a new heart rate monitoring option, energy-saving Bluetooth Smart Ready technology, and data-rich mobile and online apps. It launches at retail in August.

McCall’s is licensing the Fashion Star brand in a line of four new, inspired sewing patterns, launching this July. The line will include designs from season two designers Jesse Ray Vasquez & Garrett Gerson, Johana Hernandez, Cassandra Hobbins, and Hunter Bell.

For Parks and Recreation, licensee Ripple Junction will create a Halloween mask and bobblehead based on the show’s character Rob Swanson. The mask will have lifelike features and Swanson’s iconic facial expressions. The talking bobblehead will say classic Swanson’s quotes. These items will launch this fall. Currently available from Trends International is a line of Parks and Recreation posters and bookmarks.

For the classic Battlestar Galactica, Dynamic Forces is launching a line of all-new monthly comic books featuring original stories set against the backdrop of the 1978 series. The comics’ launch is timed to the show’s 35th anniversary this month. Moebius Models is also launching the 1:32-scale Colonial Viper Model kit, featuring launch tube packaging for display. Big Bang Pow! has also created Battlestar Galactica pint and shot glasses.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

57

Licensing Show 2013

Firefly Brand Management

Patch Products announced an agreement with Firefly Brand Management to represent its new brand of Planet Sock Monkey dolls. The line features 10-inch knit sock monkeys, each dressed in a signature style with detailed accessories.

The licensing partnership will translate the Planet Sock Monkeys’ likeness across a variety of new consumer goods, including apparel. The line’s first wave of sock monkeys will launch this fall, with additional waves of six characters anticipated for rollout.

The Joester Loria Group

Planet Sock Monkey’s Long Sock Silver

This year The Joester Loria Group (TJLG) is working with Kellogg’s to expand its brands in housewares with colorful collections of dinnerware, serveware, and glassware across multiple brands from Tabletops Unlimited. The company is also developing retro and contemporary graphic designs for Kellogg’s iconic characters, including Tony the Tiger; Toucan Sam; and Snap, Crackle and Pop as well as vintage art collections that celebrate its historic advertising art and packaging. A wide range of kitchen tools and accessories, including the Special K portion control kitchen tools and Keebler baking tools from Acme International, will be available in specialty and national chains this fall. Kellogg’s also plans to introduce new product and expanded retail distribution this year for food and storage products and Keebler and Pop Tart appliances. New collections of Kellogg’s brands in apparel, accessories, and lifestyle products will also be in specialty and national retailers this fall.

Entenmann’s-branded flavored coffees enter the single cup (K-Cup) category later this year, and will offer two new non-flavored coffee blends: Entenmann’s Breakfast Blend Coffee and Entenmann’s Dark Roast Coffee. The Entenmann’s bakeware collection is expanding to include on-trend items such as cake pop pans and seasonal themed pans as well as new additions to its kids’ bakeware products. Publishing partner Parragon is in development for the new Entenmann’s Bake Shop recipe book. It is scheduled to release this holiday.

Mountain Dew continues its Green Label Exclusives program, which pairs top designers and brands to produce one-of-a-kind lifestyle product collaborations inspired by the Dew brand. New collaborations are expected in 2013.

As the global licensing agent for The World of Eric Carle, TJLG recently appointed local agents in Korea, Russia, and Benelux to further extend the program’s reach. In the U.S., new infant development toys will be available at Babies “R” Us and Target, and new categories, including giftware, HBA, crafts, juvenile products and infant/toddler apparel, are expanding in all key markets. A special campaign for the 45th anniversary of The Very Hungry Caterpillar will be announced at Licensing Show, supported with promotional partnerships and retail events throughout 2014.

For The Hive, which airs on Disney Jr. in the UK and U.S., TJLG will execute a retail-driven program with merchandising categories to include toys, plush, games, publishing, apparel, room décor, confectionery, and more. Key product is expected to be in the marketplace in 2014, with a number of limited exclusives for this holiday.

Discovery Communications’ Animal Planet pet products has introduced new categories including wet grooming, new pet toys, pet beds and premium pet treats. Animal Planet lifestyle products continue to expand at retail, anchored by its 12-year partnership and direct-to-retail program with Toys “R” Us. New product launching this year includes pet food, pet pads, pet wipes, pet stain and odor cleaners, feedings and storage, pet gates, and interactive toys as well as lifestyle housewares products.

58

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Jewel Branding & Licensing

Jewel Branding & Licensing (JBL) has added new brands and artists to its client roster this year, including The New York Botanical Garden, which launched a line of rugs with Mohawk in March.

Also on board is a soon-to-be announced bed and bath licensee. JBL is also working with the Tracy Porter brand, which recently launched bedding with PEM America, tabletop with Certified International, and wall art with Met Colors. Other newly signed artists include Clare Jordan, Robbin Rawlings, Bee Sturgis, and Lauren Taylor.

Established client Shell Rummel signed a new deal with Pictura for stationery and gift products and launched a quilted bedding collection with Ivy Hill Home.

Artist Robin Pickens signed with Pictura, Legacy Greetings, and Magnetworks for new greeting Tracy Porter-branded bedding cards and gift products launching later this year.

Aunty Acid signed deals with Leanin Tree, Ronnie Sellers, Gibbs Smith, and Tree Free Greetings for cards, gifts, calendars, and books.

Artist Heather Rosas has also signed with Canvas Press (growth charts), Calego (backpacks and luggage), and CR Gibson (new ranges of stitched Christmas products). Lezlee Elliott has signed with Canvas Kudos, Leanin Tree, and Design Design. A complete home collection for Clairebella will be launching with Victoria Classics. The products include bed, bath, and kitchen textiles.

Dentsu Entertainment

LBX (a.k.a. Little Battlers eXperience) is a battle-action animated TV series from Japan featuring miniature customizable robots. After enjoying success in Asia, Dentsu Entertainment USA will bring the property to the global market. In North America, Bandai America, the master toy licensee, will develop an all-new line of toys for mass, including articulated action figures, building sets, and model kits. The line is scheduled for release in 2014, to coincide with the TV broadcast launch.

Dentsu Entertainment USA is seeking non-toy long-lead partners for categories such as back-to-school and publishing.

The Joy Tashjian Marketing Group

The Joy Tashjian Marketing Group (JTMG) was appointed the exclusive licensing agency for the burgeoning TShirt phenomena Ohiya: the art of making friends. Comprised of cute, cuddly, and sometimes crass characters, Ohiya began as a series of sketches and ideas by Ohio-based illustrator Tharp. Tharp and his team then teamed up with Ripple Junction in 2011 to spread the brand’s message. JTMG will work to launch Ohiya into new product categories including fashion and costumes, interactive games, publishing, toys, plush, stickers and art supplies, calendars, and electronics. JTMG has already finalized the placement of Ohiya in Hot Topic with four SKUs of Tshirts, stickers, and buttons now available in stores and online.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

59

Licensing Show 2013

Lisa Marks Associates

Grosset & Dunlap, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers Group, is partnering with Sassy to publish a series of books specifically designed to foster a baby’s development. Grosset & Dunlap will integrate Sassy’s research-based design expertise into a collection that encourages and enhances all stages of a baby’s growth. Developed in collaboration with Sassy’s team of early childhood development experts, the Sassy: Inspiring the Senses series will feature interactive components, patterns, colors, textures, words, and designs introduced at age-appropriate stages to stimulate baby’s physical, intellectual, emotional, and social skills. Grosset & Dunlap will launch the series with four books this fall. The partnership between Penguin Young Readers Group and Sassy was brokered by Sassy’s licensing agency, Lisa Marks Associates (LMA).

Global humor brand and greeting card publisher Avanti Press, Inc., has appointed LMA to develop its Avanti brand licensing program. Positioned in more than 15,000 stores in North America, and thousands more worldwide, the 30-plus year greeting card brand focuses on contemporary humor through distinctive, compelling visual stories that find their inspiration in everyday life. A comprehensive line of consumer products is planned, with initial collections targeting categories, such as apparel and accessories, gifts and stationery, domestics and home décor, media and publishing, office supplies, pet products, party goods, and more.

Dimensional Branding Group

Dimensional Branding Group (DBG) will be showcasing the app game Temple Run, which is approaching nearly 400 million global downloads, according to DBG. DBG is looking for both domestic and international licensing partners through its sub agents, which include Lisle International (Europe), Wild Pumpkin (Australia), and Empire Multimedia (Pan China region), to expand the current merchandising program.

DBG is also highlighting global online game publisher Miniclip and its titles including Gravity, Fragger, and 8 Ball Pool, which are top mobile apps as well.

Skee-Ball, a long-time DBG client, now ranks as the No. 1-branded app game of all time on the iOS platform, according to DBG. The latest Skee-Ball 2 app launched in January. The traditional toy and game platform is available for both indoor and outdoor licensing options.

DBG is also seeking partners for Urban Dictionary, a slang dictionary website with words and definitions added by visitors to the site. The site currently houses more than seven million user-submitted words.

60

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

ASPCA

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has entered an agreement with Commonwealth Toy & Novelty Co. to develop a line of plush toys and accessories. The line will aim to replicate the experience of adopting a shelter pet, bringing the ASPCA’s mission to a new generation of animal advocates. The line is tentatively set to launch by the end of 2013.

Other current ASPCA licensees include Firestar Diamond, Inc., American Greetings Corporation, Eyewear Inventions, European Home Design, Inc., and Williams-Sonoma, Inc.’s, PBTeen and West Elm brands.

Evolution

Evolution launched last year at Licensing Show and this year will debut its representation roster of properties.

Evolution is developing new licensing programs for Rubicon Group Holdings (RGH) Entertainment’s portfolio of existing and future IPs throughout the global marketplace. Monster In My Pocket, a popular brand of collectible monsters for boys, will be supported by a soon-to-be-named master toy partner, digital apps and games, and an animated television series to debut in fall 2014. Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, a new 3-D CGI-animated theatrical feature film slated for release in holiday 2014, will be supported with licensed products in apparel, toys, publishing, and seasonal.

Licensed products for Marcenivo, a property based on the artwork from artist Fabio Napoleoni, will include collectibles, social expression, paper goods, and high-end fashion apparel and accessories for specialty and department stores, set for release in 2014.

Legends of Oz Summertime Entertainment’s Legends of Oz, Dorothy’s Return, based on the original book series written by Roger Stanton Baum, the great grandson of Oz franchise creator L. Frank Baum, is a new 3-D CGI-animated film that picks up where Wizard of Oz left off. It is slated for theatrical release in 2014. A movie soundtrack from Sony Music and the DVD/Blu-ray release from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment will follow. Evolution is managing the licensing and retail program for the transmedia brand that encompasses licensed merchandise, packaged goods, console and handheld video games, virtual worlds, social games, casual games, iPhone/iPad apps, and other mobile experiences for launch concurrent with the theatrical release of the film.

As the global merchandise licensing agent for Miramax’s portfolio of properties, which includes films such as Pulp Fiction, Kill Bill Vol. I & II, and more, Evolution announced international sub-agents. New agencies include Merchantwise Pty Ltd. (Australia and New Zealand), Asiana Licensing (Korea), Blue Sky International (Japan), Empire Multimedia Corporation (Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam), Sagoo (France), Celebrities Entertainment GmbH (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), BN Licensing B.V. (the Netherlands), Rizon (the UK), Ink TM A/S (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden), and Brandvida (Mexico, Brazil, Chile, and Peru). Products will begin rolling out in Q4 2013.

Evolution also continues to seek opportunities for animated TV series Taffy Saltwater, Monstroids, and Pocoyo; Japanese character lifestyle brand Kapibarasan; tween lifestyle brand Tamagotchi L.i.f.e; and collectible accessory brand Floppets.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

61

Licensing Show 2013

My1story

With new unique character traits and interests, My1story’s book series incorporates key elements of original classic children’s tales with new perspectives, such as “Did Humpty really meet his doom with a great fall?” My1story books, illustrated by co-founder Jaime Rodriguez, seek to dispel a recent trend that shows one in five parents has swapped classics in favor of modern books, according to the company. My1story is focusing on themes based on friendship (Humpty), adventure (Jack’s Beanstalks), creativity (Lil’ Riding Hood & Wolfie), family (3 Lil’ Pigs & Harry), and imagination (Goldie & the Teddy Bears). The brand strategy entails evolving the characters with newly created animated content and storybooks. An additional five new titles are currently in the making, extending characters into new settings and learning experiences.

In addition, www.myfirstory.com will provide kids with continuous opportunities for play through stories, animation shorts, games, and activities in a safe online environment.

Out of the Blue Enterprises

Neighborhood Friends Daniel Tiger from Jakks Pacific

Lima Sky

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, the animated preschool series and only spin-off of Mister Roger’s Neighborhood from The Fred Rogers Company (FRC), is working with Out of the Blue Enterprises (OOTB), co-creator of the show and licensing agent for the property, to bring Daniel Tiger and friends to neighborhoods all across the U.S. Daniel Tiger toys from Jakks Pacific, for ages 2–4, will roll out exclusively at Toys “R” Us stores nationwide in July through holiday. Highlights in the toy line include Daniel Tiger Feature Plush (pictured), seven-inch mini plush assortment, two-pack sets of 2.75-inch collectible figures, a collectible figures gift pack featuring all five featured characters, a Neighborhood Trolley with Daniel Tiger figure, an all-in-one playset with Daniel Tiger and Prince Wednesday figures, Daniel’s Imagination Bungalow playset with Daniel Tiger Figure, and a 3-in-1 Imagination Treehouse playset with Daniel Tiger, Katerina Kittycat, and O the Owl figures.

Simon & Schuster children’s publishing imprint Simon Spotlight will create a range of Daniel Tiger books, including picture, story, novelty, activity, and coloring books and non-interactive ebooks; personalized T-shirts; and more available through toysrus.com and partner Ty’s Toy Box. University Games is also signed on for puzzles and games.

Additional licensing categories are being considered, including home, health and beauty, assorted soft goods, and more.

Lima Sky, creator of the Doodle Jump app game, has teamed up with Delivery Agent to launch a digital commerce program for Doodle Jump merchandise. The program will extend the Doodle Jump brand by offering fans an online merchandise shopping experience powered by Delivery Agent optimized for web, mobile, and tablet.

The Delivery Agent platform will support the licensing and merchandising expansion strategy of the top iOS app with the launch of Doodle Jump’s first direct-to-consumer digital merchandise store. Doodle Jump fans will have access to hundreds of products including apparel, toys, home, and novelty goods, featuring official Doodle Jump assets from 11 popular game themes. In addition, Delivery Agent will work with Doodle Jump’s top licensees to build out the product offerings.

62

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Outfit7

Outfit7’s Talking Friends franchise now extends beyond its apps, with a web series, YouTube singles, and a robust licensing program with nearly 30 licensees across all main merchandising categories. The company continues to seek licensing partners at the regional and global level that can complement the interactive Talking Friends brand. The Talking Friends Superstar plush toys, for example, seamlessly talks and interacts with multiple Talking Friends apps, as well as to each other, thanks to an advanced sound recognition system.

Extending the brand engagement beyond the app world, Talking Angela and Talking Tom’s chart-topping duet “You Get Me” has more than 90 million YouTube views and a Talking Friends web short series in 2012 garnered more than 100 million views in just a few months.

Current global licenses include Beltltex, Van Der Evre N.V., Dragon-I Toys, Smith & Brooks Limited, TVM Europe GMBH, and GB EYE Ltd.

Talking Angela

Pukeko Pictures

American Greetings Properties (AGP) has signed on as the worldwide merSpottyWot and DottyWot chandise licensor for Pukeko Pictures’ The WotWots, a new CGI-animated and live action preschool series that follows the adventures of two siblings from outer space SpottyWot and DottyWot, pictured right.

Sub-agents for the property include EXIM Licensing Group (Latin America), Stella Projects (Australia and New Zealand), Max Licensing (Turkey), Lizenwerft (Germany), and Segal Licensing (Canada).

The first season is currently available in more than 90 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, the U.S., Canada, the UK, China, and much of the Asia Pacific region. And season two airs on The Hub (U.S.), Treehouse (Canada), Channel 5 Milkshake (UK), HBO Family (Latin America), ABC4Kids (Australia), and TVNZ (New Zealand). Grand Entertainment Ltd. has also created co-produced entertainment content specifically for the Chinese market, currently broadcasting on CCTV channels and most online and mobile platforms.

In the home entertainment space, The WotWots are available on DVD in multiple territories and available for digital download in Australia, the UK, and Canada, with the U.S. launch expected soon.

An interactive app for iOS, Pocket SpottyWot, follows the award-winning The WotWots e-book Lanky Landing Legs.

Publishing partner Ice Water Press has launched books in the Australian and New Zealand markets and holds global e-publishing rights for season one. AGP is looking to extend the brand’s publishing presence in Europe, North and Latin America, and Asia.

ABC Commercial is Pukeko Pictures’ global partner for live events, with local agents Showtime in Australia, Sphere Entertainment in Canada, Rainbow in the UK, and Milestone in the U.S.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

63

Licensing Show 2013

Reeder Brand Management

David Reeder, previous head of GreenLight, announced the formation of Reeder Brand Management (RBM), a boutique licensing and brand representation agency.

The first clients signed to RBM include legendary filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock and actress Bo Derek. Reeder is currently seeking opportunities that “present the totality of these well-known personalities and create meaningful marketing and product partnerships,” says Reeder.

RBM is also actively looking to engage with additional personality brands and is in discussion with a number of consumer brands for representation.

Elvis Presley Enterprises

Elvis Presley Enterprises announced that licensee Royal Bobbles has unveiled a new Elvis Presley Aloha from Hawaii bobble head figurine featuring his signature American Eagle jumpsuit, just in time for the 40th anniversary of this historic event. The hand-painted, limited-edition model is crafted in high-quality resin and is currently available at gift shops and online retailers nationwide. Its full-color collector package is designed in the U.S. and includes biographical information and entertaining Elvis facts.

Mimoco, creator of the Mimobot brand of designer USB flash drives, also announced its first musicinspired collaboration with Elvis Presley Enterprises. The Elvis x Mimobot release features two design variants—Elvis Aloha from Hawaii Mimobot and Army Elvis Mimobot—both available with up to 128GB of data storage and in USB 3.0 speeds. The line comes preloaded with bonus Elvis Presley content, including archival Elvis interviews, photographs, and more. Also included is the MimoDesk personalization suite, which includes Elvis x Mimobot-themed wallpapers, icons, and avatars. MimoByte sound software is powered with an offering of iconic sounds and character dialog that play each time the Elvis x Mimobot is inserted in or ejected from a computer. The Elvis x Mimobot series is now available online at Mimoco.com and at select specialty outposts worldwide.

Robin Zingone

Robin Zingone signed a licensing agreement with Pioneer Balloon Company for latex and foil balloons worldwide. The robinzingone brand, will debut on holiday, occasion, and contemporary collections featuring the brand’s signature look of fresh, modern, and classic design.

The company also inked a deal with CSS Industries and its consumer product subsidiaries CR Gibson, Paper Magic Group, and Berwick Offray for a wide range of products for both specialty and mass market. Under the agreement, The robinzingone brand will launch on social expression and stationery, baby/toddler/kids including albums, calendars, journals, fashion and room accessories, kitchen binders, recipe cards and list pads, tech accessories, paper goods, gift wrap, wall décor, and greeting cards. For Zingone’s tween brand Cocomimilulu, a line of products is planned for social expression, back to school, activity kits, craft, stickers, scrapbooks, wall décor, and locker accessories.

64

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

The Wildflower Group

The Wildflower Group has secured multiple new licensees for HarperCollins Children’s Books’ Goodnight Moon. Mighty Fine has signed on for infant and toddler apparel, Precious Moments for gift items, and Cloud9 Fabrics for fabrics. Mighty Fine’s range of designs will be based on the book’s recognizable look and classic characters, icons, phrases, and scenes. The line will include tops, bottoms, dresses, onesies, rompers, and fleece clothing. Precious Moments’ line of infant gift products will be made of resin, glass, porcelain, ceramic, dolomite, vinyl, and paper.

Products include clocks, bookends, water globes, photo frames, banks, figurines, covered boxes, photos albums, growth charts, and nightlights. They will be available in card, gift, specialty, and department stores in spring 2014. Cloud9 Fabrics’ line of Goodnight Moon fabric will be available in independent fabric stores by December. Fabrics will be 100 percent certified organic cotton.

The Wildflower Group is currently in discussions with potential Goodnight Moon licensing partners in categories such as accessories, bedding, and health and beauty aids. Goodnight Moon has sold more than 23 million copies since its publication in 1947, and has been translated into 12 languages.

The Valen Group

The Valen Group represents several brands available for licensing. IHOP represents all things breakfast with a successful frozen breakfast product line and a line of syrups currently in grocery chains. Other product categories being explored for licensing are coffee, kitchenware, small electric appliances, candy, and more.

Fazoli’s is America’s largest Italian quick-casual restaurant chain, featuring a premium menu of freshly prepared Italian pasta entrees, pizzas, and signature garlic breadsticks. Fazoli’s recently launched into retail grocery in refrigerated entrees and is seeking additional partners in categories including bread, appetizers, seasoning, and more.

Known as the Gourmet Burger Authority for more than 40 years, Red Robin offers unique and delicious burgers and entrees. Red Robin is seeking partners for burgers, appetizers, sauces, seasoning, sandwich spreads, beverages, indoor burger grills, small kitchen electrics, and more.

Rust-Oleum, a leading brand in rust and corrosion prevention, has had successful partnerships in a variety of product categories including locks, tape, patio furniture, hardware, fasteners, paint accessories, and even skater apparel. The brand is seeking partners in categories where rust and corrosion inhibition are important including lawn and garden, as well as partners in apparel and accessories for its vintage graphics.

Trunk Archive

Trunk Archive will be showcasing its extensive library of iconic photography, available for the first time for consumer products at Licensing Show. On display will be highlights of work by legendary photographers Herb Ritts, Bruce Weber, Patrick Demarchelier, Jerry Schatzberg, and Miles Aldridge, as well as collections by newly signed artists Lord Snowdon, Ellen Von Unwerth, and Japanese sensation Mika Ninagawa. Unique surf photography by Chris Burkard and Jeff Divine, aerial images by Alex Maclean, and previously unseen works from the historic archives of British Vogue will also be exhibited.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

65

Licensing Show 2013 Consumer Strategies

Consumer Strategies, Inc., has signed celebrity chef, restaurateur, and TV personality Susan Feniger to its client roster and will be seeking merchandise partners in categories such as food, culinary, cooking accessories, travel, and home goods. Feniger is best known as the other half of Too Hot Tamales, one of the first cooking shows that aired on Food Network with almost 400 episodes. She also founded the Border Grill, which has locations in Santa Monica, Las Vegas’ Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, and downtown Los Angeles, and the Border Grill Truck with chef Mary Sue Milliken.

Her first solo venture Street is the first Los Angeles restaurant based on street food from all over the world.

Feniger joins Consumer Strategies’ extensive list of health and fitness and food brands that includes Contessa Premium Foods, The Biggest Loser, Kathy Smith, and more.

Big Tent Entertainment

Big Tent Entertainment’s viral sensation Domo continues to grow in the fashion world through new deals with licensees such as Good Works Makes A Difference (jewelry) and Yellow Rat Bastard (clothing). The brand has also signed a sponsorship with this summer’s Vans Warped Tour, which will bring the internet meme to 40 cities across the country. The Domo brand is also celebrating the success of its Domo x DC line in coordination with Funko (figurines) and License2Play (plush).

Other clients that continue to seek partnerships for the upcoming year include PixFusion, Miffy and Friends, and Discovery Communications’ Discovery Kids and TLC brands as well as Big Tent’s latest partner, the 24-hour preschool network Sprout. This marks Sprout’s first Licensing Show appearance.

MHS Licensing

MHS Licensing will debut artist Marcie St. Clair at Licensing Show. St. Clair lives by the mantra, “A smile is worth gold!” reflected in her artwork through bright colors, encouraging messages, and an unexpected visual perspective. Her fresh designs reinforce her belief that a happy soul is more important than anything. St. Clair transforms the pieces that are brought to her home décor consignment store into objects‘d art by refinishing, repurposing, and applying color with her unique sense of design. Her background is in graphic design, art direction, and art education. MHS Licensing is seeking licensing opportunities for her artwork in multiple categories, including cards, stationery, home textiles, gift, apparel, and wall décor.

Another new artist, Stacey Yacula’s art is inspired by her childhood in the cold winters, long nights, and hot chocolaty days of northern Canada. Her images capture the innocence of youth with simple strokes and endearing characters. Everyday designs available for licensing including nature inspired illustrations, adorable children, and animal friends as well as holiday-themed artwork. MHS is seeking partners in product categories ranging from stationery and gifts to wall coverings and home textiles.

66

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

Marcie St. Clair artwork

Peanuts Worldwide

Iconix Brand Group, in a joint venture with Charles M. Schulz Creative Associates, has formed Peanuts Worldwide, the new home of the global Peanuts property. Peanuts Worldwide will showcase a number of existing global licensees and upcoming ventures at this year’s Licensing Show. The Peanuts Comic Strip is what the company is calling bite-sized media, which is perfect for today’s social media-immersed culture. Peanuts is active on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Peanuts has also signed on as the first licensee of the social network Path. Path is a similar concept to Facebook but connections are limited so it remains close friends and family. Peanuts has signed an extended deal with CafePress.com for a Peanutsspecific shop on the website, which is expected to launch at the end of the year. Peanuts is currently featured at apparel retailer Uniqlo with product lines that reach both genders and all age demographics.

Peanuts Worldwide in partnership with Twentieth Century Fox and Blue Sky Studio will bring Peanuts to the big screen in 3-D in Q4 2015. The Peanuts are expected to be positioned as the next big franchise for Fox, according to Peanuts Worldwide. A full licensing and promotional program is expected for the film.

Zodiak Kids

Tickety Toc

Zodiak Kids has lined up an array of integrated media experiences across its digital platforms for its preschool property Tickety Toc, in order to provide momentum for the launch of its consumer products this fall. Major partners signed for the U.S. and Canada include master toy partner Just Play, Anchor Bay (DVD), Scholastic (publishing), MEGA Brands (puzzles), Franco (bath/bedding), and Cupcake Digital for mobile apps. In Canada, Studio Licensing has also appointed NTD (apparel), Calego (luggage/bags), and Paris Geneve (sleepwear). In the U.S., Established Brands have signed Bentex (apparel), Berkshire (accessories), and Fast Forward (bags) with further deals to be announced shortly. Product is set to launch with aggressive retail marketing support this fall. Toys and DVDs will hit shelves in the U.S., while in Canada initial rollout items includes toy, apparel and DVDs. Tickety Toc currently airs on Nick Jr. in the U.S. It also airs nearly 50 times per week on Disney Jr. & Family in Canada. The Tickety Toc licensing program is managed by Established Brands in the U.S. and Studio Licensing in Canada.

Schwartz & Company

Bill Schwartz, creator and producer of animated specials including Snow White and the Magic Mirror and The Secret of the Hunchback, has signed The Brand Liaison to represent North American rights to the newly launched Happy Toon World brand. The brand consists of junior versions of the world’s top 40 iconic characters, including Little Snow White, Little Cinderella, and Little Frankenstein, as well as holiday characters, including Little Santa, Little Nutcracker, and Little Cupid, across six distinct collections: Little Super Hero, Tiny Princess, Little Boy, Little Holiday, Little Animal Collection, and Little Transporter. To represent Happy Toon World internationally, Schwartz has signed Icon Promotions (Russia) and Empire Multimedia (India, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, Indonesia, Japan, and the Philippines). All Happy Toon World characters are available for infant to tween licenses, including publishing, apparel, toys, paper goods, lifestyle products, and more.

Happy Toon World is a wholly owned subsidiary of Schwartz & Company. The company also represents Puff the Magic Dragon, Strawberry Shortcake, Julie Andrew’s The Singing Princess, and other content for license to U.S. broadcasters, video, and digital platforms.

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

67

Licensing Show 2013

Condé Nast Licensing

For the first time, Condé Nast Licensing will have a booth at the Licensing Show, where it will highlight several existing partnerships and pursue new relationships for its brands.

Condé Nast brokered a deal with Macy’s for a Teen Vogue for mstylelab junior’s apparel collection featuring maxi dresses, jumpsuits, printed leggings, short dresses, chambray shirts, bandeaus, shorts, bralettes, jackets, and tanks in trend-forward silhouettes, bold prints, and bright colors. The line launched in March across 150 Macy’s locaWIRED Editors’ Picks for Target display tions worldwide and on macys.com. Each month the line is refreshed with 15 new pieces.

SELF magazine and CAP Barbell, Inc., have partnered on the magazine’s new line of branded fitness products, which launched in spring. Products include hand weights, fitness hoops, weighted balls, yoga mats, weighted vests, and jump ropes. Products retailing for $19.99 or more include an offer for a free SELF subscription. Each piece of equipment include a QR code linking consumers to online tips for proper use, as well as exercise routines designed by SELF. The deal was brokered by FremantleMedia International.

Target Corporation and WIRED have created WIRED Editors’ Picks for Target, a custom-curated assortment of consumer electronics and gadgets.

The collection includes existing Target products as well as four products available for the first time at Target. It is available now at Target stores and at Target.com/wired. The deal was brokered by Condé Nast.

Building on the success of its DIY wedding invitations and stationery program at Michaels, Brides and Gartner Studios are developing a social expressions program. The line will include greeting cards, roll wrap, gift bags, and accessories, and is scheduled to launch in Q1/Q2 2014 at major retailers nationwide.

Additional partnerships include: the Bon Appétit Collection on HSN, featuring cookware and small appliances, and The New Yorker at Barnes & Noble, featuring Nook covers. Categories in development include food, fitness apparel, social expression, and stationery and gift.

FremantleMedia International

FremantleMedia International continues to manage some of the fastest growing and evergreen brands in the world. FremantleMedia is responsible for brands in the kids’ space such as Tree Fu Tom, Strange Hill High, Ella the Elephant, Kate & Mim Mim, Wizards vs. Aliens, and Grojband; lifestyle brands such as Grand Designs, Loteria and Condé Nast brands SELF and Epicurious; and entertainment brands such as Idols, Got Talent, The X Factor as well as The Price is Right, Family Feud, and Let’s Make A Deal.

SEGA Licensing

Starting at this year’s Licensing Show, SEGA will lay the foundation for a massive multi-tiered campaign to relaunch the Sonic brand with new games, merchandise, and more soon-to-be-announced surprises. SEGA Licensing is looking for partners across all categories with a concentration on toys, apparel, bed and bath, food and beverage, and amusement. The campaign will also set its sights on Latin America for expansion, as Sonic increases its footprint around the globe. For this year, fans can engage with Sonic through new video game titles and merchandise slated to close out the year. SEGA recently announced an exclusive partnership with Nintendo for the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise in the U.S. and Europe. The new agreement will make Nintendo consoles the No. 1 destination for Sonic gaming over the next three titles. This year also marks the 25th anniversary for the SEGA Genesis gaming console.

68

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

ICONIX/PEANUTS WORLDWIDE

CAROLANN DUNN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HARD GOODS, PEANUTS WORLDWIDE

THE JOESTER LORIA GROUP

ALMEDIA, DEMAIO, AND AHRENS PROMOTIONS

Iconix Brand Group appointed Carolann Dunn to the newly created role of executive director of hard goods for Peanuts Worldwide and Iconix Entertainment. She will drive new business and account management in the toys and games, HBA, gift, home décor, stationery, food, and sporting goods categories. Reporting to her will be director of hard goods, Lexi Mitz. They will also build existing and new relationships with partners for the planned 2015 Peanuts movie from 20th Century Fox and Blue Sky Studios.

Dunn joins Peanuts Worldwide and Iconix after serving as principal at the licensing agency, Creative Properties. Prior to Creative Properties, she was vice-president, consumer products licensing for Major League Baseball Properties.

The Joester Loria Group has announced the following promotions. Michael Almedia has been promoted to director of sales. In his new role, he will oversee sales efforts in key product categories such as apparel, electronics, interactive, juvenile, sporting goods, and tabletop as well as non-traditional product categories.

Jackie Demaio has been promoted to senior brand manager. In her expanded role, she will manage brand programs dealing directly with clients and licensing partners as well as overall program initiatives.

Trish Ahrens has been promoted to brand manager. She will continue her program management responsibilities across all beverage brands and full brand management responsibilities on select accounts.

BABYFIRST

WICKED COOL TOYS

MATT GENTILE, SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT OF ADVERTISING SALES AND SPONSORSHIPS

Television network BabyFirst appointed Matt Gentile to the newly-created position of senior vice-president of advertising sales and sponsorships.

Gentile previously served as vice-president advertising sales for Comcast/NBCU where he represented a number of its major network brands including Sprout, E!, and Style.

Since its launch in 2006, BabyFirst says it has steadily grown to become the largest television vehicle targeting babies, toddlers, and their moms in the U.S. BabyFirst is completing its transition from a subscription-based service to a basic cable network. The network exceeds 35 million homes via its cable and satellite partnerships with Comcast, TimeWarner, Charter Communications, DIRECTV, and Dish Network. The channel says it is projected to exceed 50 million homes by year-end.

70

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

JEREMY PADAWER, PARTNER & CO-PRESIDENT

Wicked Cool Toys announced the hiring of Jeremy Padawer to join Michael Rinzler as partner and co-president. Padawer has been in the toy industry for more than 15 years, and has extensive experience in marketing, sales, licensing, product development, kid’s televised content, and more.

Padawer was most recently executive vice-president of marketing and new business development for Jakks Pacific.

Padawer opened Wicked Cool Toys’ L.A. office in May. Wicked Cool Toys currently has licensing deals with WWE, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and The Wiggles.

.com

Get Connected.

• Sign up to receive FREE twice weekly news blasts • facebook.com/aNbMedia • twitter.com/anbmedia • timetoplaymag.com • facebook.com/timetoplaymag • twitter.com/timetoplay

Untitled-1 1

5/30/2013 3:32:11 PM

DHX MEDIA

THOM CHAPMAN, TERRITORY MANAGER

DHX Media, an independent producer, distributor, and licensor of mainly children’s entertainment content, has appointed Thom Chapman as its new territory manager.

He will be responsible for sales to English-speaking Canada and the Asia Pacific territories. Joining the sales team already in place at DHX Media, he will focus on the expansion of DHX Media’s properties across all platforms in these key territories.

Prior to joining DHX he was vice-president of business development and sales at ToonBox Entertainment.

EVOLUTION

KALMAN J. ISTOK, VICE-PRESIDENT

OF INTERNATIONAL LICENSING

The licensing and global brand management firm, Evolution, which was appointed global licensing and promotions agency for all merchandise stemming from Miramax’s portfolio of properties, announced that Kalman J. (KJ) Istok joins as vice-president of international licensing.

Istok is charged with evaluating, establishing, and managing the subagents throughout Europe, including Eastern European markets, the Middle East, and Latin America, as well as working with consultants, direct key licensees, creative agencies, and others on behalf of Evolution’s brand partners.

Prior posts include Denmark’s Ink and Kidz Entertainment. In 1992, Istok founded EEMC, the first American licensing agency focused entirely on Eastern Europe and Russia, and served as its president for more than 15 years.

72

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

RUBIE’S COSTUME COMPANY

STEPHEN STANLEY, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LICENSING AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Rubie’s Costume Company, Inc., hired Stephen Stanley as the company’s managing director of licensing and business development. Stanley joins Rubie’s with more than 20 years of experience in the licensing industry, most recently as the senior vice-president of global licensing at Jakks Pacific. He previously served as co-president of Disguise, Inc. In this newly created position, Stanley joins Rubie’s in the Melville, N.Y. facility.

DREAMWORKS ANIMATION NEW BOARD MEMBERS

DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc., announced at its annual meeting of stockholders, on May 29, 2013, current directors Nathan Myhrvold and Richard Sherman retired from the company’s board of directors and Lucian Grainge, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group, and Jason Kilar, founding CEO of Hulu, will be nominated for election as new directors.

Myhrvold is the CEO of Intellectual Ventures and has served on the DreamWorks Animation board of directors since the company went public in October 2004. Sherman is the CEO of The David Geffen Company and has served as a DreamWorks Animation board member since November 2008.

Kilar was the founding CEO of Hulu and a pioneer in the field of digital content. Prior to building Hulu, Kilar served in key leadership positions with Amazon.com, including senior vice-president of worldwide application software and vice-president and general manager of Amazon.com’s domestic books, music, and video businesses.

Grainge joined Universal Music Group in 1986 and has spent his entire career in the music industry. He has not only pioneered new approaches to the signing and development of some the world’s most successful recording artists and songwriters but has also consistently championed the development of innovative business models and partnerships with a wide range of technology and media partners around the world. Grainge is also a member of the board of directors of Activision Blizzard, Inc.

The No. 1 Source for All Things Play

Daily Toy Giveaways Reviews of the Hottest Toys on the Market Personalized Recommendations from the Toy Advisor Follow the #TimetoPlayLive virtual game show every Wednesday, 1 p.m. EST on Twitter for a chance to win fun prizes A new weekly program featuring the latest toys and hottest prizes Facebook.com/TimetoPlayMag or @TimetoPlay Untitled-4 1

5/30/2013 3:49:55 PM

JULY 3–5

Licensing Japan

licensing-japan.jp

Tokyo Big Sight

Tokyo

31—8/3

Outdoor Retailer Summer Market

outdoorretailer.com

Salt Palace Convention Center

Salt Lake City

14–17 18–21

AUGUST 17–21

Home & Gift Show

Comic-Con International

comic-con.org

Harrogate International Centre San Diego Convention Center

North Yorkshire San Diego

nynow.com

Jacob Javits Convention Center, Pier 94 Las Vegas Convention Center

Las Vegas

TIME TO PLAY HOLIDAY SHOWCASE

TIMETOPLAYMAG.COM

METROPOLITAN PAVILION

NEW YORK CITY

1–3

TIA Fall Toy Preview

toyassociation.org

Dallas Market Center

Dallas

10–13

New York Comic Con

newyorkcomiccon.com

Jacob Javits Convention Center

New York City

19–21

New York International Gift Fair

homeandgift.co.uk

MAGIC Market Week

SEPTEMBER 26

OCTOBER 5–6

7–10

15–17 15–18

MIPJunior MIPCom

Brand Licensing Europe ABC Kids Expo

NOVEMBER

magiconline.com

mipjunior.com mipcom.com

brandlicensing.eu theabcshow.com

5–7

AAPEX

aapexshow.com

20–21

Expo Licensing Latin America

licensingmexico.com

5–8

18–19

SEMA

Dubai International Licensing Fair

74

ROYALTIE$ JUNE 2013

semashow.com

licensingdubai.ae

Palais des Festivals Palais des Festivals Olympia

Las Vegas Convention Center

Sands Expo Center

Las Vegas Convention Center

Dubai World Trade Centre Centro Mexico City

New York City

Cannes Cannes

London

Las Vegas

Las Vegas Las Vegas

Dubai

Mexico City

Untitled-2 1

6/4/2013 12:03:13 PM