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On Show At BLE 2018
Speed demon
Following on from the critical and commercial success of Sonic Mania Plus, a return to the series’ retro 2D roots, the blue blur is in great shape moving into 2019. Kart racer, Team Sonic Racing will launch on all formats this winter and will be accompanied by a Sonic themed Remote Control Car from NKOK, plus a new range of apparel and accessories with merchandise including notebooks, mugs, glasses and more from Half Moon Bay. SEGA Europe is also developing its licensing programme for Total War and has struck a key initial deal with Russian board game specialist and Games Workshop distribution partner, Hobbyworld. In partnership with Creative Assembly, it will develop a range of unique board games based on the grand strategy series. SEGA is capitalising on the continuing retro trend, gaining placement in supermarkets and on the high street with a retro game and console focused range of products. Recent launches include a SEGA Saturn Android Controller from Paladone; a Funko Pop 30th Anniversary Altered Above: Team Sonic Racing is Beast pixel figurine and a replica SEGA due for launch Mega Drive console from Retro Electro. this winter.
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Perfect landing Alpha Animation is making its debut at BLE, with preschool hit Super Wings being a key focus. With series three due to launch in key European markets this autumn, and plans to expand into other territories throughout 2019, fans of the show will enjoy a new twist on the plot, featuring ‘Mission Teams’ for each core character. Season 1 and Season 2 of the property are currently broadcast in over 100 territories with key broadcasters, while Season 4 is also under development. The licensing programme hosts a number of
A Gruff delight
Celebrating The Gruffalo’s 20th anniversary in 2019, Magic Light is gearing up for a mammoth year of events and activities including commemorative product launches; character appearances; film screenings with live orchestra; interactive experiences; Julia Donaldson/Axel Scheffler book signings and retail events; celebrations with Chessington World of Adventures Resort; a summer focus with the Forestry Commission; and a pop-up shop. The new premiere for BBC One this Christmas, Zog – another Donaldson/Scheffler favourite – is a heartwarming tale of a keen but accident-prone dragon and his mysterious young helper. To coincide, Zog will feature in Forestry Commission activity trails, with a major retail partnership also planned.
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international licensees, with further additions imminent. Key focuses include Zara; PEZ, which will launch a full line of its Above: Super Wings has enjoyed strong growth this year. candy-dispensers; while Revell and Cobi will be developing model-kits and bricks which will complement the extensive toy line and strongly support the properties visibility throughout 2019. Additionally, Alpha Group is currently developing many new projects including a co-production of a new preschool TV series in partnership with DHX, with TV and CP representation in some territories. Grand Hall F68
Art attack
Edutainment Licensing will be showcasing an array of properties intended for children in their early years. With millions of units sold worldwide in over 50 territories, the Arty Mouse programme has expanded to other categories including educational apps, animated ebooks and personalised gift books and giftware. The first Pop-Up Arty Mouse Edutainment Activity Centre has also opened in Shanghai, with more to follow. Homer & Gumur is a 3D animated series inspired by well-loved tales of toys which come to life when nobody is looking. The storyline encourages children to learn about friendship, develop problem-solving skills and introduces them to the value of teamwork. The company will be exploring opportunities in toys, plush and games and puzzles. In addition, visitors to the stand will be able to hear updates for Super Geek Heroes (which has secured a number of partners) and Flossy and Jim, which is continuing to grow awareness.
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Left: Homer & Gumur is looking at a number of opportunities.
Further retail activity includes the recently launched Star Editions website, a bespoke online shopping destination for personalised giftware from The Gruffalo and fellow titles. Launched earlier this year, the Gruffalo range of crueltyfree toiletries from Good Bubble has already won a raft of prestigious awards for its skinhealing properties.
Grand Hall F90 Right: The Good Bubble range of Gruffalo products is award winning.