Licensing World October 2025 by TOYWORLD MAGAZINE

world licensing

Licensing World

from the publisher

Now that you’ve flipped the October issue of Toy World over, you’ve arrived at Licensing World – dedicated to bringing you all the latest news from the licensing community which is relevant to licensees and retailers in the Kids and Family space. We have gathered together the most up-to-date information available (embargoes permitting) to help you evaluate which properties and licensed ranges you should be working with over the coming months.

With BLE just around the corner, there is an extensive preview of the show, focusing on the exhibitors with brands that will be of interest to our audience. As the premier European licensing event, BLE will see visitors from many different European territories descending on the ExCeL Centre in East London next week.

We’ve also pulled together a round-up of the latest licensed ranges which will be hitting shelves in Q4, so retailers can see which of their new launches licensees are most excited about as we count down to the festive season. Licensed toys have enjoyed strong sales so far this year, with a crop of new movies helping to keep the momentum going throughout the summer. There are still a few big releases to come this year, including the second part of the Wicked movie this November, while 2026 will see another strong film slate lead by the likes of Disney Pixar’s Toy Story 5 and Mandalorian & Grogu.

There have also been plenty of licensing successes away from movie theatres: Peppa Pig has enjoyed its best year for a while, with the arrival of Baby Evie helping to reinvigorate the brand. Bluey and Paw Patrol continue to enchant younger kids, while many of this year’s leading properties – including Harry Potter and Minecraft – will undoubtedly continue to enjoy success in 2026.

With the seemingly inexorable growth of the Kidult category, a host of Asian-inspired brands will also be vying for attention, as licensees and retailers look to tap into this passionate audience. Over in the ‘toy section’ of this edition, an exclusive interview with The Entertainer CEO and chairman Andrew Murphy reveals some fascinating changes to the retailer’s business strategy, including the introduction of a broader range of Kidult ranges to its portfolio. As Andrew explains: “As a business, we have previously focused on the 12 years and under demographic. We’re now looking to attract a whole new customer target group, by adding around 20% of new Kidult-oriented SKUs to our range.”

And if the Kidult category is one you’re looking to expand, keep an eye out for our next dedicated Kidult supplement, which will be mailed alongside the November issue of Toy World.

In the meantime, enjoy this latest edition of Licensing World, and we hope to see as many of you as possible at BLE.

- John Baulch

Licensing World

DKB expands distribution for K-pop Photocard Random Packs

DKB reports that K-pop continues to dominate global pop culture, and now its collectibles are stealing the spotlight. With the buzz around Netflix’s K-pop Demon Hunters helping to fuel renewed fan passion, official Photocard Random Packs are proving to be one of the hottest items in the toy and collectibles space. DKB Toys & Distribution’s new brand partnership with Pocamarket has already delivered a stellar first wave of sales, and with demand soaring, the company is expanding distribution to reach an even wider audience.

The Random Pack concept is simple: each sealed pack contains a surprise photocard featuring idols from some of the world’s biggest K-pop groups, from BTS to next-generation chart-toppers like Stray Kids, Ateez, P1 Harmony and BoyNextDoor. Fans never know which idol they’ll pull, and that sense of suspense mirrors the thrill of trading cards or blind box toys.

That blend of surprise, play value and collectability has led to strong sales. DKB Toys has seen fantastic uptake from the first wave, with fans making repeat purchases to chase their dream pulls. Every card is guaranteed to be 100% official, sourced directly from Korea and inspected for quality. The packs plug directly into the trading culture that has always been central to K-pop fandom. Fans are swapping photocards in person, connecting through online trading circles and building global communities around their collections.

Only a limited number of SKUs will be available for 2025, making these blind packs ideal for stores that want to capitalise on the craze. With high collectability, repeat-purchase appeal and one of the most passionate fanbases in the world, this is a product that delivers both sales momentum and customer loyalty. The limited run also adds to the sense of exclusivity, encouraging fans to buy early and often, before packs disappear, and DKB Toys is predicting that the Photocard Blind Packs are poised to be one of the most in-demand collectibles of the year. For sales enquires, contact James Luff at james.luff@dkbtoys.com

Pokémon takes over The Entertainer

The Pokémon Company International took over more than 150 The Entertainer stores for an electrifying late-summer holiday promotion, marking its first-ever linkup with one of the UK’s largest toy shop chains. The activation included branded bays, window displays, giveaways, social media activity and a website takeover, as well as special appearances by Pikachu in key stores including Westfield White City, Bluewater, Kent and Bullring in Birmingham.

The Entertainer has a new collection of Pokémon products, including items from Jazwares’ popular toy line - such as Pokémon Battle Spinners and 8″ Pokémon plush - as well as Funko’s Bitty Pop! Pokémon figures, available online and in-store.

“We are delighted to join forces with The Entertainer for this exciting new activation where fans old and new can celebrate all things Pokémon,” said Mathieu Galante, senior licensing director (EMEA) for The Pokémon Company International. “With a host of much-loved Pokémon filling the space alongside fun activities, we hope to offer an inspiring and engaging experience for the many visitors to this prominent toy store chain.”

PMI unveils Garena Free Fire toy collection

PMI has teamed up with online games developer and publisher Garena to create a new collectible line inspired by its flagship battle royale game, Free Fire. As the world’s largest mobile game by average Daily Active Users and the most downloaded title, according to Sensor Tower, Free Fire continues to dominate global charts and player engagement. This new collection brings the hit title’s energy and characters into the real world.

The new line channels Free Fire’s signature look and feel. From fierce figures to collectible trading cards, each item will reflect PMI’s attention to quality and detail, while capturing the distinct Battle in Style spirit. Featuring fan-favourite characters like Kelly, the lineup will include action figures, plush, collectible figures, keychains, trading cards and more.

“Free Fire has built an incredibly passionate fanbase, and through this partnership, we saw a huge opportunity to give those fans a new way to connect with the game,” said Omer Dekel, CEO of PMI. “We’ve tapped our creativity to bring this cultural phenomenon to life, creating a line that will be as bold, detailed and dynamic as the experience itself. We’re confident it’ll resonate with gamers, collectors and retailers alike.”

This launch further cements PMI’s position as a global leader in licensed products. Known for combining innovative design with collectible appeal, PMI continues to expand its portfolio by turning digital powerhouses into physical experiences.

Licensing World

The Werebears return – and with Baby Three crossover

The Werebears brand has been brought back to life by David Middleton of Midco Sourcing and Midco Toys, working together with Kandy Toys.

The 80/90s toy brand Werebears was originally produced by Hornby and is now returning to retail shelves. The Werebears will be available not only in their original form, but also as a crossover with Asian blind box sensation Baby Three. This will see Baby Three characters cosplaying as original Werebears favourites, Growler, Fang, Gums, Grizzler and Howler, along with the long awaited Wendy Wild and new characters Punkpaw and Cuddleklaw. The brand will relaunch early 2026 from Kandy Toys (KTL).

The original brainchild of artist George Nicholas, the Werebears brand has been brought back to life by David Middleton of Midco Sourcing and indie toy store chain Midco Toys. David is working together with KTL and Freddie Martin, who shares the same passion for the 80/90s iconic brand.

Dave commented: “With the rise in popularity in horror and scare trend based properties, 2025 is the perfect time to be relaunching this iconic brand. Paired with the massively on-trend Asian blind box sensation Baby Three, there couldn’t be a better way to get this brand into the hands of the kids and kidults of today”

The original WereBears series was released in the UK in 1983. Creator George Nicholas, a muralist and managing director with Impact Murals, was also a philanthropist and director of the charity Art For Their Sake, a cartoonist, animator and author. Distributed by Hornby, the range was created so that boys could own teddy bears without worrying about being bullied. The bears were designed so that their head functioned as a hood; turning the head inside out would reveal the bear’s “were” face.

Baby Three is a line of collectible plush figures that come in sealed blind boxes, so customers don’t know which one they have until they open it. The characters often have vinyl faces and are designed to be cute or kawaii. The series, manufactured by Cureplaneta and distributed under licence in the UK by KTL, has been gaining popularity globally as an alternative to similar collectible characters.

Kandy Toys (KTL) can be contacted on 01395 234 600 or at enquiries@kandytoys.co.uk.

PhatMojo signs toy rights for Roblox Grow A Garden game

PhatMojo’s upcoming toy line will bring the magic of Grow A Garden into the real world, offering fans a hands-on way to build, collect, customise and share their love for the digital gardening sensation.

Since its launch in late March, Grow A Garden has become the No.1 game on Roblox, amassing over 15b plays and reaching a record-setting peak of 21.6m concurrent players. In the game, players nurture their land into vibrant gardens filled with unique crops, flowers, fruits and more. The tranquil, immersive gameplay, paired with engaging mechanics and frequent live events, has made it a global sensation, and Grow A Garden’s blend of creativity, teamwork and wholesome fun continues to captivate millions worldwide.

Splitting Point Studios develops the game in collaboration with Do Big Studios. The deal was brokered by licensing agency Think Influence. Initial products from PhatMojo’s Grow A Garden range will launch in Q4 2025, with expanded collections hitting major global retailers in Q1 2026. Click has been appointed as the exclusive UK distributor for Grow A Garden.

Luke Hillier, CEO of Click, said: “We’ve never seen a brand take off like Grow A Garden. It’s a true cultural moment. The world PhatMojo is building with this line captures everything that makes the game so compelling: creativity, connection and the joy of growing something amazing. We’re excited to deliver this phenomenon to UK retail and put it into the hands of the fans.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with PhatMojo on one of the most exciting brands we’ve ever seen,” added Lewi Hillier, COO at Click. “Grow A Garden taps into a universal play pattern that blends nurturing, collecting and creativity. It’s a true breakout hit, and we’re already seeing incredible demand from retail. This toy line is set to be a top-tier performer across the UK and ROI.”

L.O.L. Surprise! unveils Care Bears range

The brand-new collaboration between MGA Entertainment‘s L.O.L. Surprise! and Care Bears emphasises both brands’ commitment to expanding their collection of licensed partnerships embedded in pop culture, inviting fans to unbox six new L.O.L. Surprise! Tots, each sporting fashions and accessories inspired by globally known and loved Care Bears characters.

Each of the six new Tots is inspired by the charm of its Care Bears counterpart – Cheer Bear, Share Bear, Togetherness Bear, Grumpy Bear, Funshine Bear and Lucky Bear – complete with signature belly badges, coordinating fashions, accessories and a felted mini bear sidekick. From Cheer Bear’s rainbow belly badge to Grumpy Bear’s iconic storm cloud, each ball is uniquely shaped like a Care Bear’s face and comes with its distinctive sticker badge on the ear, representing each character.

“L.O.L Surprise! has always been about sparking joy through a unique play pattern, and this partnership brings a delightful new experience for fans of all ages by combining the vibrant energy of L.O.L Surprise! with the heartwarming nostalgia of Care Bears,” said Pamela Justice, head of Marketing UK & Ireland at MGA Entertainment. “We’re excited to offer fans a fresh way to experience two much-loved brands together, and this colourful, imaginative collection promises to inspire creativity and bring families together through play.”

Licensing World

Craft Buddy adds Fuzzballs to its licensed portfolio

Craft Buddy has secured a new licensing agreement with Fuzzballs, the fast-growing and much-loved kawaii-inspired brand created by Marc Sach. Fuzzballs’ endearing characters, global fanbase and cross-market appeal make it a natural fit for Craft Buddy’s arts & craft ranges, which span gifting, décor, collectibles and creative mega kits. The collaboration will see Fuzzballs’ unique charm and vibrancy translated into the company’s awardwinning Crystal Art format, intended to appeal to both existing and new fans of the brand.

Since its creation, Fuzzballs has become a globally recognised property, resonating with fans across merchandise, publishing and online communities. Its founder-led approach was a key attraction for Craft Buddy, aligning with the hands-on ethos of Gary Wadhwani and his brother Dino, who continue to drive Craft Buddy’s growth as a family-run creative business.

Gary, co-founder of Craft Buddy, commented: “Fuzzballs is a fantastic addition to our licensing line-up and our first foray into kawaii pop culture. Marc’s vision and dedication to the brand mirrors the way Dino and I have built Craft Buddy: with passion, creativity and a close connection to our audience. We believe Fuzzballs will resonate ‘fuzz-tastically’ with our customers, while also introducing new fans to both crafting and the Fuzzballs universe.”

Marc added: “Fuzzballs has always been about fun, positivity and cuteness overload, and I couldn’t be more excited to see that energy sparkle through Craft Buddy’s award-winning Crystal Art ranges. The brand’s relatable characters give fans a way to connect on a personal level and now this collaboration lets them get even closer by being creative with the characters they love. It’s a wonderful way to expand the Fuzzballs universe, giving fans the chance to not only collect but also create their own pieces of Fuzzballs magic.”

Initial concepts for the range have been unveiled at two major industry events this September: Craft Buddy’s in-house spring/summer 2026 showcase at its UK head office, and the LA Previews, where the company presented its latest licensed developments to international partners.

Deddy Bears comes to life on screen with Chris Dicker

Deddy Bears is making its move into global entertainment. Award-winning creator Chris Dicker has signed on to lead the brand’s first large-scale screen expansion, including digital-first shorts, premium scripted television and a live-action VFX feature.

Launched as a line of creepy cute collectibles, Deddy Bears has exploded into a fan-driven phenomenon with multiple sold-out waves, millions of units sold across nearly 60,000 retail doors and a fast-growing global community. With its quirky humour and endearing characters, the brand is now the foundation of a growing entertainment franchise.

“These characters may look spooky on the outside, but each one has a wildly endearing personality and rich internal lore,” said Gavin Lawler, co-founder of Deddy Bears and Innov8 Creative Academy. “From the beginning, we knew their stories could go far beyond the toy aisle. Now, with Chris onboard, we’re excited to bring the world of Deddy Bears to screens everywhere.”

“Deddy Bears has already proven itself as a phenomenon in the collectibles space, and the natural next step is to expand that success through storytelling,” commented Chris Dicker. “Together with the team, our goal is to create premium content, from digital-first series to theatrical features, that will engage audiences worldwide and establish Deddy Bears as an ever-green brand for years to come.”

Chris, an award-winning creator from Ireland, is known for building original IP across television, film and games. He has created and produced series for Amazon, Nickelodeon and the BBC, and developed global projects with Netflix, Disney and DreamWorks. He is also behind the original story for Spin Master Entertainment’s first original animated feature. In addition, he is developing a strong slate of original projects in film and television, cementing his reputation as one of the most sought-after voices in family entertainment.

The Deddy Bears rollout will begin with digital-first storytelling designed to engage its thriving online community, followed by premium TV projects for streamers and broadcasters, culminating in a theatrical feature designed to introduce the world to global audiences at scale.

Distributed by PMS in the UK and License-2-Play in the US, the brand is now sold in over 50 countries and has secured more than 20 licences. With its distinctive blend of cute-meets-macabre, Deddy Bears was recently selected as one of the first brands to join Roblox’s new AMP program, with in-game codes for fans and the official Roblox badge appearing on all packaging.

Landsec teams up with Holovis to launch ApolloDomes

Landsec has joined forces with immersive experiences specialist Holovis, to launch ApolloDomes, the UK’s first large-scale immersive projection domes.

Mark Hurry has recently joined Holovis as producer. His credits including award winning immersive theatrical productions including Immersive Peaky Blinders, Doctor Who -Time Fracture and The Great Gatsby – Immersive Experience, and he will use his experience and expertise to help bring ApolloDomes to life. Mark told Licensing. biz: “My aspiration is to bring world class theatre to retail outlets. For those who are familiar with The Sphere in Las Vegas, our aim is to bring that level of experience to the UK. I’ll be talking to key IP holders about collaborating with us to create destination family entertainment centres.”

Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth will be one of the first retail locations where shoppers can enjoy spectacular immersive theatre with striking visual projections.

Billed as unprecedented event-scale production, the two 19-metre indoor domes use cutting-edge AV technology to deliver immersive and multi-sensory adventures that cater for all audiences.

Meeting the growing demand for experiential entertainment, the experiences have been created by the award-winning creative team at Holovis. The team’s credits include work for Alton Towers, SeaWorld Yas Island and Legoland New York. ApolloDomes will launch two seasonal experiences for Halloween and Christmas, and Landsec and Holovis plan to expand the partnership over the coming year, setting a new benchmark for innovation and engagement in shopping destinations across the country.

Ben Padley, head of Consumer at Landsec said:

“By bringing Holovis’ next-generation immersive entertainment to the UK for the very first time, our partnership will enhance some of our most popular shopping destinations into spaces that inspire, entertain, and create memorable moments for visitors of all ages.”

Stuart Hetherington, CEO of Holovis, added:

“ApolloDomes represents a first of its kind experience, blending next-gen projection technologies and media with world-class immersive theatrical performances to transport guests to an exciting, seasonal destination. We’re extremely proud to be embarking on this journey with Landsec and are very excited to bring this level of immersive experience to guests in the UK.”

To get in touch with Holovis, contact mark.hurry@ holovis.com.

Licensing World

Heathside partners with WWE

Heathside Trading and WWE have announced a new licensing partnership that will bring a range of WWE products to market in 2026, facilitated by WWE’s licensing agent IMG Licensing.

Under its Khadou brand, Heathside will launch a variety of collectible items featuring some of WWE’s most iconic superstars, spanning both current stars and legends from WWE’s storied past. This includes plush both in standard, talking and wearable formats. The collection will include plush toys, collectible figures under Khadou’s MiniQ and Microid brands and novelty items aimed at the collectibles market, offering fans a new way to celebrate their favourite wrestlers.

WWE has long been a cornerstone of the sports entertainment world, and its influence is unmatched, making its fanbase an ideal audience for the upcoming range of collectibles. “We are thrilled to be working with a brand as iconic and influential as WWE,” said Gregory Benassar, CEO of Heathside. “We’re excited to bring our expertise in collectibles to WWE’s licensing portfolio and to deliver products that fans will truly enjoy. We know how passionate WWE fans are, and we’re committed to creating lines they’ll be proud to collect and showcase.”

Retailers interested in stocking the new WWE collection can get in touch with Heathside on 01282 775 778, www.heathside.biz or at sales@heathside.biz.

Blokees launches Transformer AE03 Soundwave

Blokees’ global mission is to Pass on the Fun of Building, firmly believing in the power of creativity to inspire unlimited imagination through powerful licences and brands such as Hasbro, Disney, Pokémon, Transformers, Hello Kitty, Minions and Naruto, with a major emphasis on collectability.

Blokees specialises in creating highly detailed, licensed, fully articulated, snap-fix character assembly toys in different sizes, suitable for all age groups. With products ranging from £2.99 to £39.99, the collection delivers affordability and value for money while catering to the kidult, toy and collector markets alike.

The new AE03 Soundwave nods to the Decepticons’ classic communications officer while keeping screen-continuity flexible to other versions. The release stands at 18 cm and comprises of 327 pieces, building over an articulated inner frame with layered armour, creating a fully articulated character. Integrated lighting for the eyes and chest is paired with a magnetic control module that triggers three classic Soundwave lines and light effects. The chest bay references Soundwave’s retro media-deck silhouette, and a magnetic faction emblem completes the look.

Play and display options are extensive: Laserbeak, Ratbat, Rumble and Ravage are included. Rumble features swappable gear (drill, hammers) and full posing, while Ratbat adds movable wings and head. Weapons offer both standard and stowed forms and can be mounted on the back. Tactile details inspired by a classic Walkman, roller wheels and push-button elements, provide an engaging fidget-feel alongside the posing range. Surfaces are also repaint-friendly for customisation.

AE03 Soundwave is available now, giving fans a centrepiece that combines striking display presence with a true hands-on experience. To get in touch with the team at Blokees, call 07585 661 739, visit www.blokees.com or email sales@theleftfieldgroup.com

The Entertainer announces festive partnership with Disney

The Entertainer has announced a new partnership with Disney, which includes sponsorship of The Entertainer’s Christmas gift guide for 2025.

The sponsorship will see a host of Disney’s key lines, including Disney Stitch Live-Action Soft Toy, Disney Toy Story Buzz Lightyear Collectible, Disney Moana 2 Swimming Tautai Moana Doll and more, take centre stage in The Entertainer’s festive gift guide catalogue, which is now available in stores nationwide. Supporting campaigns will be delivered across The Entertainer’s website, email and social channels.

The partnership will also see The Entertainer running two Disneythemed campaigns in stores: Disney Princess and Marvel Moment from 11th September to 8th October, and Disney Holiday from 4th to 30th December.

Brian Proctor, chief Product officer, The Entertainer, said: “We’re excited to announce this new partnership with Disney ahead of the festive season. As the UK’s largest toy retailer, we’re proud to join forces with one of the world’s most iconic brands to sponsor our Christmas gift guide and support with in-store campaigns. This collaboration will bring even more value to our customers and strengthen both brands during the busy holiday period.”

For more information on The Entertainer, visit www.thetoyshop.com.

Special Feature Disney

A toy story for the ages

The original Toy Story movie came out 30 years ago and remains one of the most popular animated films (and franchises) of all time. What does this level of success mean to Disney?

Toy Story was first released in November 1995 and built a powerful bond with fans who went on to grow up alongside the films, as the beloved characters and stories developed and evolved. Over the past 30 years, Toy Story content has spanned across three sequel movies, plus several short series and animations. This enduring affinity has meant that those who first met Woody, Jessie, Buzz and the gang as kids are now introducing their own children to the Toy Story franchise - which gives us a way of continuing that connection with fans and families.

Toy Story’s popularity has expanded beyond products, to music and of course experiences. I think the fact that fans can visit Toy Story Land at Disney Parks from Florida to Paris, Shanghai, Hong Kong and California, speaks for itself.

Arguably, there’s never been a film so well suited to toy licensing, and even today, licensees are still finding ways to bring the movies to life in toys and games. How does Disney, as licensor, support this ongoing product development?

As you can imagine, Toy Story is a joy to work on from a toy licensing perspective and provides incredibly rich inspiration. Key to us, of course, is staying true to the characters and stories. This is reflected in the success of toys that honour the original premise of the film,

This year, Disney is celebrating the 30th anniversary of one of its most illustrious franchises: Toy Story. In those 30 years, it has built a powerful bond with fans through four films, with a fifth major motion picture on the horizon. Nigel Cook, vice president, Brand Commercialisation and Retail, Disney Consumer Products, tells Toy World readers about the film’s legacy and its impact in toy licensing.

drawing on the toy collective and themes of teamwork and storytelling. This is clear in the enduring popularity of ranges such as Mattel’s multipacks, core 12” figures and Rocket Rescue Buzz, and Simba’s core plush range, which delivers a fantastic first physical touchpoint.

As new technology becomes more accessible, we have even more ways to bring characters to life. This is particularly good for drawing out different characteristics and elements of fun. A great example is Robosen’s Toy Story Buzz Lightyear Robot, which has just expanded with a miniature model.

The announcement of Toy Story 5, arriving in 2026, thrilled fans of the franchise. What does this movie mean for fans, and what kinds of CP opportunities will it offer licensees?

In 2024, across the globe, over 50 Toy Story toys were sold every minute, so we’re starting from a strong base. Of course, a new film means new storylines and characters, more ways to deepen that connection with existing fansand chances to establish that sense of familiarity among kids in today’s world. Excitement is high and we are already working with key licensees such as Mattel (as announced in March), on exciting new lines marking the fifth instalment, from action figures to Uno editions and beyond.

How will Disney be supporting its licensees and the new Toy Story ranges, both ahead of launch and once they’re in the marketplace?

Toy Story is an evergreen success story and forms a crucial part of our incredible 2026 slate of films. Everything starts with supporting licensees to deliver best in class product appealing to kids, families and fans. To support, we will be leveraging existing fan affinity and growing excitement with robust marketing support, ensuring we’re connecting with every demographic; as we know, Toy Story is not just for kids. Our ambition is to reach the levels of excitement seen around the release of Lilo & Stitch in May 2025 and to continue to raise the bar with incredible marketing and retail activations.

Beyond retail, the anniversary this year will boost the run-up to Toy Story 5. Disney and Pixar launched a

new YouTube series in March, consisting of over 160 pieces of Toy Story content including shorts, character profiles and games across Disney Kids and Pixar YouTube channels. Another activation driving peak fan engagement and keeping Toy Story front of mind for consumers is the Mundo Pixar Experience. This touring exhibition brings a world of thrilling Pixar adventures to life. In Andy’s Room, guests are inspired to feel like one of the beloved toys whilst interacting with their favourite Toy Story characters.

To what extent do you think consumer demand for both nostalgia and newstalgia are driving ranges based on existing franchises?

There is no doubt that the Toy Story franchise has achieved incredible success both commercially and culturally. Nostalgia has certainly played a part in keeping that older audience connected and invested. Like the Stitch phenomenon, we see a high proportion of Millennials in particular who discovered the Toy Story franchise as kids, have been able to stay connected via product and are now introducing their own families to the franchise. Globally, Toy Story remains the most-watched film franchise on Disney+, and the four Toy Story films have grossed over £200m+ in the UK and Ireland.

The fact that Toy Story continues to drive excitement, new product and fandom after 30 years is testament to the strength of the IP, its storytelling and the characters at the heart of it all.

Toy World Takes a look at the very latest properties that are currently taking the licensed sector by storm.

Fuggler

Libertas Brands

www.fuggler.com

fugglers@libertasbrands.com

2025 has been a successful year for the Fuggler brand. With its partners at Blue Zoo Studios, over 80 live-action episodes have already been released, along with 200+ YouTube shorts. New shows like Fuggler Law & Disorder, Road Trip with Fugglers, Fuggler FOMO and The Great Big Butt-on Hole Quiz Show are all dropping throughout the rest of the year and into 2026.

Fans span kids and kidults, with 60% of the fanbase being female teens and kidults. TikTok is buzzing with followers, up 253% this year, with over 60,000 pieces of fan-made content racking up 811m views. Across TikTok, YouTube and Instagram, the brand’s own channels now boast more than 950,000 followers (+140% YoY) and engagement regularly hits 5% or more.

On shelves, Fuggler’s global plush partner Zuru is making sure these loveable weirdos are everywhere. By the end of 2025, they’ll be in over 70 markets at retailers like Walmart, Target, Tesco, Smyths, Amazon and many more.

There have also been a multitude of collaborations. The Gremlins x Fuggler range continues to cause trouble worldwide, alongside Lord of the Rings x Fuggler and the special 50th Anniversary Jaws x Fuggler. 2026 brings even more oddball team-ups with SpongeBob keychain Fugglers, PowerPuff Girls and Care Bears. Meanwhile, the core line is expanding with new themes like Butt Ugly Pets, MisFits Monsters, Fugg Life, Old Fogies, Fuggalicious and Alley Cats, plus more surprises are in the pipeline.

Away from plush, Fugglers are making their way into collectibles, apparel, accessories, stationery, pet toys, homewares, publishing, costumes and even digital trading cards. Partners already on board include PMI Kids World, Poetic Brands, Difuzed, The Jacob Company, Sinco Pets, Hunter Price, Rainbow Productions, Spirit, Issac Morris, Surreal Entertainment, Spin Master Games, Aduro, MoonPig.com, Trends International, Themed.co.uk, Pogo, Lake Press, Centum Books, Iconix, Accessoires Innovation, Buffalo Games and Tibles with the FuggClub app. There are plenty more deals in motion across the globe.

Fuggler has also teamed up with Retail Monster (US/Canada), Haven Global (Australia/NZ), Creative Minds (Japan), Future of Play (China/HK/Taiwan) and WildBrain CPLG (everywhere else). Libertas Brands covers the UK & Ireland.

For licensing inquiries, get in touch via the details above.

Kiss Pophouse Entertainment

jon.spalding@pophouse.se

Pophouse Entertainment, the Stockholm-based company co-founded by EQT’s Conni Jonsson and Abba’s Björn Ulvaeus, invests in and develops some of the world’s most iconic music artists, with a clear vision to turn iconic music IP into global entertainment brands through experiences and powerful storytelling.

With a portfolio that includes Avicii, Swedish House Mafia, Cyndi Lauper and Kiss, alongside productions such as Mamma Mia! The Party, Pophouse is rapidly scaling, acquiring IP and adding value to the artists’ catalogue by creating new concepts and experiences, ultimately turning timeless music into multi-dimensional experiences that resonate with fans across generations.

In 2024, Pophouse acquired the Kiss music catalogue, brand name, trademarks and likeness and now partners with Kiss to bring the band’s stories and larger-than-life personality into the world in ways that feel fresh, engaging and unexpected. With over 100m records, over 200m concert attendees and reaching over 32m monthly listeners today, Kiss has a truly global fandom. Its superfan base, The Kiss Army, has over 17m social followers, spanning generations and over 100 countries. Whilst an iconic music band, Kiss has always gone beyond music with its electrifying live shows, iconic characters and disruptive pop-culture partnerships with Marvel, Hello Kitty and The Simpsons.

Pophouse’s mission is to amplify this legacy, releasing music, creating new stories, innovative products, immersive experiences and connected digital platforms. The company aims both to reward existing fans and recruit new audiences. The viral Kiss TikTok channel, launched in March 2025, has already brought in over 1m new fans, especially targeting young women aged 18–24 who make up the majority of the platform users and can be drawn to the band’s makeup, spectacle and showmanship appeal.

Music is the core of the Kiss strategy, with music releases, remixes and collaborations, but the company is developing a long-term roadmap that doubles down on Kiss as a character-driven IP with limitless storytelling potential. Biopics, documentaries and comics celebrate the band’s history, and animation, gaming and horror stories unlock new worlds. All of this builds up to the Kiss Avatar Show (Pophouse is a founding investor in Abba Voyage) to bring fans face-to-face with technology and emotional connection. As Pophouse builds its commercial and creative roadmap, it will focus on partnerships within Lifestyle, Play, Digital & Gaming and Experiences. Since the beginning of the Pophouse and Kiss partnership in 2024, several tentpole campaigns have been launched across different areas. In Lifestyle, Dsquared2’s spring/summer 2025 runway featured a Kiss-inspired fashion collection, reimagining the band’s iconic imagery. In Play & Collectibles partnerships with NECA, Weta and Funko cement Kiss as a pop culture powerhouse, whilst in Digital & Gaming: The World of Tanks x Kiss collaboration shows how immersive platforms can tell Kiss stories in new ways. As Pophouse expands into experiences ranging from kids’ animation to horror universes, live events and sports crossovers – plus the upcoming Avatar Show – Kiss will engage fans in truly unexpected spaces.

Special Feature BLE Preview

Larkshead Licensing on BLE 2025

Ahead of Brand Licensing Europe next month, Clare Piggott, managing director Larkshead Licensing, looks at the company's relationship with the show and what the brand is hoping to achieve within the space.

Why is BLE an unmissable part of your yearly show/networking calendar?

It is three very busy days of meetings, deal making, networking and catching up with industry colleagues in and around the business of licensing. It’s an essential part of our licensing calendar and we have supported the show for many years.

Why should retailers and manufacturers visit your stand at BLE?

A visit to our stand will be engaging and welcoming. Larkshead is set to launch new brand signings at BLE, so there will be lots that’s new and exciting to talk about. We will be showcasing our most diverse portfolio ever in terms of age group appeal, a reflection of the changing licensing landscape and how our flexibility and deep licensing experience across a broad range of categories has proven to be commercially attractive to licensors, licensees and retailers.

Which property/brand/franchise will be your main focus at this year’s event?

Visitors are invited to celebrate another year in the world of Tom Gates. Created by Liz Pichon and based on her best-selling books and the award-winning TV series, the dynamic doodler and music lover has had a strong year. New deals brokered by Larkshead include Ion8 for drinkware and lunch bags (launching Q4 2025) and Smiffys which will launch Tom Gates dress-up for World Book Day 2026.

The 24th book, Pesky Pets and Parties (Hopefully), launches on 9th October 2025 and we will be giving away a signed-copy on its stand. 2026 is the 15th anniversary of the first Tom Gates book and will see the 25th book in the franchise., so BLE will provide a great opportunity to share plans for next year’s anniversary activations.

We’ll also be exhibiting a number of female artists who are inspiring others with their unique artwork and approach.

Are you launching new brands, products or announcing any news at BLE?

Terrific Television, fronted by TV producers Nic Ayling and Driana Jones, has inked a deal to extend the reach of its programmes into new licensing categories, and Larkshead has penned a deal as the global licensing agent for CBeebies’ pre-school show Tiny Wonders.

Making its BLE debut, Jelly Armchair, founded by sisters Cat and Liz Faulkner, will detail a range of new deals including greeting cards and calendars, with product ranges launching early next year.

What do you hope to achieve by exhibiting at BLE?

To engage with retailers, licensees and licensors to celebrate the commercial success of what we have achieved over the last 12 months, but more importantly, to talk about what we plan to achieve over the next couple of years. It’s a great place to engage with the broader licensing community and showcase our portfolio.

Visit the Larkshead Licensing team at BLE Stand A162.

Tapping into Minecraft's potential at BLE

With Brand Licensing Europe just around the corner, Hanna Willis, head of Consumer Products at Minecraft, tells readers how Minecraft will be making the most of the show.

Why is BLE an unmissable part of your yearly show/networking calendar?

BLE continues to serve as a cornerstone event for Minecraft’s global licensing business, particularly in Europe where creativity, energy and opportunity converge. It’s a great opportunity for strengthening relationships with our valued licensees and retail partners, exploring

new collaborations and shaping the future of Minecraft’s consumer products programme.

Why should retailers and manufacturers visit your stand at BLE?

They should come and see us to explore how we can connect, collaborate and create together. Our booth, which is hosted by our agent CAA Brands UK, serves as a hub to facilitate meaningful face-to-face conversations, where we work alongside our partners to collaborate and ultimately develop impactful retail programmes that bring our shared vision to life.

Are you launching new brands, products or announcing any news at BLE?

Yes, exciting things are on the horizon. This year has been nothing short of extraordinary, with the release of our first-ever live-action theatrical film, A Minecraft Movie, soaring to $954m at the global box office. We’re still riding that wave of momentum, welcoming new partners who recognise the enduring strength of the Minecraft brand and the worldwide passion that brought our community to cinemas across the globe.

What does this year’s brand lineup include?

We plan to announce a slate of new collaborations with

global brands that will launch worldwide and regionally. We are also entering new categories and distribution channels. What do you hope to achieve by exhibiting at BLE?

At BLE, we will connect with our partners, explore new licensing opportunities and engage with the retailers who help drive our business.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing licensing in 2025/2026?

The biggest challenge ahead is managing complexity – every market operates with its own set of rules, retail behaviours and consumer expectations. The art lies in balancing what’s best for the global brand with tailoring experiences to resonate locally. Yet within that complexity lies our greatest opportunity: to craft authentic, highquality Minecraft consumer products that feel true to the brand while connecting with fans in every corner of the world.

Visit the Minecraft team at BLE on Stand A261 (CAA Brands UK).

ROCKIN’ POP CULTURE SINCE 1975

COLLECTIBLES, TOYS & GAMES

MOVIE, ANIMATION, HORROR, GAMING & EXPERIENCES COMING SOON

Company Profile Solent Group

Solent Group’s licensing landscape

Mel Beer, head of Licensing (Global) at pioneering FMCG company Solent Group, tells Toy World readers how the company fits into the wider licensing industry, from its expansive portfolio to what it offers retailers and licensors.

What is Solent Group and what space does it fill in the wider licensing industry?

At Solent Group, we’re more than just a manufacturer; we’re a partner that inspires, develops and delivers FMCG products across Health & Beauty, House & Home and Food & Snacks. Our ethos is clear: to create sustainable products that help people feel better, disrupt the market positively and bring real value to retailers and licensors alike. Our licensed ranges specialise in design-led, sustainable categories including reusable bags for life, personal care and beauty, tissues and cleaning and laundry products. Alongside this, we also produce a wide portfolio of own-brand and white-label foods, snacks and wellbeing goods. What sets us apart is our approach to partnerships. We’re focused on building meaningful, growth-driven collaborations, ensuring every range is commercially

strong, brand-aligned and resonates with consumers. Tell us how has the company has developed into the business it is today?

Solent was founded in the early 1990s and has grown consistently over the past three decades. Today, we’re proud to be part of Humble Group, a dynamic FMCG collective of more than 47 companies. Humble’s mission is to transform FMCG by rethinking what everyday products can look like, how they’re made and the role they play in people’s lives. Through both organic innovation and smart acquisitions, the group has built a portfolio that reflects the future of consumer goods. Being part of Humble allows Solent to grow in step with those ambitions. We can innovate at pace, expand into new categories and share global expertise, all while staying true to our own values. It’s a journey we’re proud to be part of, and one that keeps us evolving alongside the group.

What is Solent Group’s realm of expertise and who is its customer base?

Our expertise spans FMCG across three main pillars: Health & Beauty, House & Home and Food & Snacks. We work with a wide network of over 250 global customers, from supermarkets and high street chains to online and specialist outlets. Because of that reach, we’ve developed the ability to tailor products for different retail channels and manage supply at scale. Whether it’s an everyday tissue pack or a premium licensed reusable bag, our aim is always the same: to deliver products shoppers love and retailers can trust to perform.

Tell us about your current licensing focus and how it features in the plans for 2026?

Our licensing strategy spans design-led brands like Anya Hindmarch and Zandra Rhodes, celebrity names including Christine McGuinness and Ferne McCann and evergreen literary classics such as Peter Rabbit, Paddington and The World of Eric Carle. Seasonal favourites remain a big part of our portfolio too, such as The Snowman, The Grinch and Father Christmas by Raymond Briggs. On the

entertainment side, we work with global franchises from Warner Bros. Discovery and popular children’s brands including L.O.L. Surprise!, Little Tikes and Bing. Each licence plays a role in reaching different audiences with relevant, sustainable ranges.

Our No.1 licence right now is Cath Kidston, and building on the success of bags, tissues and cleaning cloths, we’re planning further product expansion in 2026. We’ll also be extending our Elf on the Shelf range into personal care, launching a fun and festive toiletries collection for Christmas 2026, something we’re particularly excited about. Looking further ahead, we’ll be adding complementary franchises across our core genres, while also expanding into the charitable sector for the first time. We’ve got some really exciting collaborations in the pipeline, so watch this space.

Why should licensors and retailers work with Solent Group? What do you bring to the table that is unique?

Solent Group brings together strategic vision, operational excellence and a clear sustainable ethos to “help people feel better in a sustainable way”. This isn’t just a tagline; it’s embedded in our partnerships, product development and operations. We offer a complete service package across product development and category growth planning, design and creative services, supply chain and logistics, technical expertise and trend research and marketing, which enables licensors and retailers to scale quickly and efficiently, with Solent managing the whole process.

We are a pioneer within the sustainable FMCG sector, focusing on eco-conscious products across all our categories that align strategically with consumer values and licensor/retailer goals for responsible sourcing and product innovation. With operations in the UK, China, South Africa, Vietnam, Hong Kong and Australia, Solent offers global market expertise and flexible manufacturing capabilities, which gives us the ability to respond to market shifts and trends quickly. Our reputation for reliability and innovation makes us a safe and strategic choice for licensors and retailers alike.

Special Feature BLE Preview

Putting the ‘E’ in BLE

Brand Licensing Europe is returning to the ExCel London from 7th-9th October, with an agenda that is really putting an emphasis on the European element of the show. Toy World’s Caroline Tonks sat down with Anna Knight, SVP Global Licensing, and Laura Freedman-Dagg, head of Retail, to talk all things BLE and discover what is on the cards for this year’s show.

Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) is just around the corner, with a soon-to-be packed show floor full of new and returning exhibitors. This is the only pan-European event dedicated to licensing and brand extension, and brings together retailers, licensees and manufacturers for three days of deal-making, networking and trend spotting. With over 250 exhibiting companies and hundreds of brands from all over the world on show, this year is set to build upon previous iterations.

“This year, we’re making improvements to our meeting service which is a really important part of the event to help people plan and make the most of BLE,” says Anna Knight. “Visitors will see improvements in the functionality when they log in and how it helps them navigate the show, which can be challenging.”

In 2025, the show will be really leaning in to the ‘E’ in BLE – the European element of Brand Licensing. Anna has been working closely with visitors and exhibitors from an

array of European countries to make sure they will have their needs met and everything will reflect what they want to see. Off the back of those conversations, there will be some key improvements being made to the show.

All the major studios from last year’s show will be returning in 2025. Visitors will see exhibitor space from the likes of Warner Brothers, Paramount, Hasbro, Mattel, Universal, Pokémon and Sega all on one floor. As ever, strong retail attendance is anticipated: in terms of toy retailers, representation is expected from the likes of The Entertainer, Argos, Amazon, Poundland, Harrods, John Lewis and MyFirstYears. Major players from the toy space - including Mattel, Hasbro, Jazwares, the Lego Group and Asmodee - will all be exhibiting. In terms of new exhibitors, there will be a wide range of different companies on show for the first time, including new companies coming into the animation space from areas such as Asia and Eastern Europe.

There will also be a new theatre hosting a variety of presentations this year: the Licence Global Theare. This is where the keynotes and trend, data-driven sessions will be held. The keynote on the first day of the show will be presented by Mattel, which will be leading the conversation alongside Amazon Studios, discussing the relaunch of Masters of the Universe. They’ll be taking a different angle this year, discussing how to successfully bring a franchise back to market – exploring the creative process behind the strategy, and what it means for

Laura Freedman-Dagg

Anna Knight

Special Feature BLE Preview

the consumer products range. The keynote will cover everything from conception to store.

A new area that was first launched at Licensing Expo in May is the Networking Hub, where visitors will have access to networking sessions, from speed networking and ice breaker sessions to happy hours, one-on-one content and sessions on how to do business in different countries with the show’s partners from Licensing International.

On the travel and logistics side, the BLE team works hard to support its international attendees so they can fully maximise their trip. Services on offer include a hotel booking facility where visitors can access preferential rates and optimal availability, while there is also clear information on travel options and details of how to get to the venue. On top of that, it’s about making sure that people plan their time efficiently to make the most of the show. This preview issue of Toy World showcases the

2025 dates and times:

• Tuesday 7th October: 09:00 - 17:00

key licensing companies exhibiting at BLE, with details of the properties they’ll be focusing on at the show. “In addition,” explains Anna “all attendees can access the meetings service, plan their schedules in advance and ensure that they don’t start looking at their diaries with seven days to go and wonder why they can’t get appointments.”

A big change this year which international attendees should be aware of is the need for anyone coming from outside the UK to check if they require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – a new layer of security enforced at UK borders. It is essentially a temporary visa to come to the UK (very similar to the ESTA required to enter the US). An ETA costs £16 and last for two years or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever is sooner. Anna states: “We’ve highlighted this new initiative on the BLE website, but I’ve been very conscious to advise everyone to do this early and not be surprised by it.”

Visitor who require an ETA should apply in good time at www.gov.uk/eta/apply.

As in previous years, Laura Freedman-Dagg has worked hard to make the retail industry understand how important BLE is for them. She says: “It’s a retail show; we are doubling down on that. We’ve had incredible retail attendance the last few years, so our big focus is maintaining those visitors’ experience and making sure they come back, with access to the same level of quality exhibitors that they’ve met previously.

“I don’t have to do much more than put our exhibitors in front of retailers and make sure they can meet with them easily. They need to know they can access the major exhibitors at the show. They need to reach out, plan their show, talk to us and understand what they want to achieve.”

For BLE exhibitors, Laura states that it is crucial that they’ve completed the survey which has gone out to everyone, which essentially asks them who their key targets are across retail and manufacturers. It also asks them about category focuses, with all this information going straight into BLE’s campaigns, allowing the team to encourage the most relevant retailers to attend. “We know we’ve got a lot of retailers coming along, but we want to make sure that we attract the right people,” she adds. “It’s a matchmaking job. We are always looking for new potential retailers to invite, so we rely on that insight from exhibitors.”

Exhibitors should have already shared with Laura what will be happening on their stand, whether that may be something experiential or a new launch. In turn, she has used this information to let retailers know what will be happening in advance. “We run smaller events in the UK before the show. The exhibitors need to be front of mind for the retailers as they plan, and anything they can do to shout about what they’re doing is so useful. They should be in front of the audience before, during and after the show.” Indeed, both Toy World and Licensing.biz will be highlighting the latest news ahead of the event, as well as bringing updates from the show each day and in the weeks following BLE.

On site, it is all about listening to retailers and understanding their core objectives. “Our retail audience is really diverse. Some arrive at the show ready to go and they understand brand licensing and will hit exhibitors with all their questions and demands. ‘What can you give me?’ ‘Where are your fans?’ ‘What’s their profile?’ There’s a lot that will come with that level of readiness. They’re like consumers, and they’re excited about being at BLE.”

Ultimately, the end goal is for exhibitors to engage with retailers and licensees with a genuine partnership conversation that goes both ways.

Laura concludes: “This year, we know we’re going to wow the retail and licensee attendees with the brands and exhibitors we have on-site, helping the right people to find each other and develop those connections.”

Team Toy World will see you there. In the meantime, over the following pages you’ll find a comprehensive round-up of the leading brands in the Kids & Family space to check out at the show.

• Wednesday 8th October: 09:00 - 17:00

• Thursday 9th October: 09:00 - 16:00

Venue: ExCel London, 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London Docklands, E16 1XL

Website: www.excel-london.co.uk

Brand Licensing Europe 2025 Agenda

DAY 1

Dockside Dash – Brand Licensing Europe Fun Run

Tuesday 7th October, 7:00AM

The Dockers Statue, ExCel London

Your Guide to Brand Licensing Europe

Tuesday 7th October, 9:30AM

License Global Theatre (E200)

Brand Licensing Explained

Tuesday 7th October, 9:45AM

License Global Theatre (E200)

Private Entertainment Showcase 1By Invitation Only

Tuesday 7th October, 10:00AM

Platinum Suite

Brand Development Through Storytelling

Tuesday 7th October, 10:00AM

Networking Hub (A291)

Show Floor Tour

Tuesday 7th October, 10:15AM

License Global Theatre (E200)

Press Briefing: Exclusive Reveal of the Data Driving

Brand Licensing in Europe

Tuesday 7th October, 10:30AM

License Global Theatre (E200)

Understanding the French Licensing Market

Tuesday 7th October, 11:00AM Networking Hub (A291)

NBCUniversal: Building the Fandom Flywheel

Tuesday 7th October, 11:30AM

License Global Theatre (E200)

Licensing Agents 101: What They Do and Why They Matter

Tuesday 7th October, 11:45AM Networking Hub (A291)

Private Entertainment Showcase 2By Invitation Only

Tuesday 7th October, 12:30PM

Platinum Suite

The Keys to Location Based Experiences

Tuesday 7th October, 12:30PM

License Global Theatre (E200)

Understanding the Italian Licensing Market

Tuesday 7th October, 1:00PM Networking Hub (A291)

A Legend Reborn: Reimagining the “Masters of the Universe” Franchise with Mattel

Tuesday 7th October, 1:30PM

License Global Theatre (E200)

New to Show & Solo Traveller Mixer

Tuesday 7th October, 2:00PM

Networking Hub (A291)

Private Entertainment Showcase 3By Invitation Only

Tuesday 7th October, 3:00PM

Platinum Suite

Paddington & Beyond: Shaping the Future of Family Brands

Tuesday 7th October, 3:00PM

License Global Theatre (E200)

IP & Licensing – a Crash Course

Tuesday 7th October, 3:00PM

Networking Hub (A291)

Products of Change Power Hour

Tuesday 7th October, 4:00PM

Networking Hub (A291)

Brand Licensing Europe Show Floor Drinks

Tuesday 7th October, 5:00PM

Show Floor

Brand Licensing Europe 2025 Agenda

DAY 2 DAY 3

Unlock Your Brand's Potential with the Global Licensing Group

Wednesday 8th October, 9:00AM Global Licensing Group Hub & Sales Office

Sip & Share Networking

Wednesday 9th October, 9:15AM Networking Hub (A291)

Private Entertainment Showcase 4 - By Invitation Only

Wednesday 8th October, 10:00AM Platinum Suite

Coolest Brands for Gen Alpha! Who Makes the Top 100, and What Makes a Brand Truly Cool for Kids?

Wednesday 8th October, 10:30AM License Global Theatre (E200)

Licensing Meets Amazon: How Licensees and Licensors Can Maximize Brand Value Online Wednesday 8th October, 11:00AM Networking Hub (A291)

Hong Kong Arts Centre: Where IP & arts Comes to Life

Wednesday 8th October, 11:30AM License Global Theatre (E200)

Understanding the German Licensing Market

Wednesday 8th October, 12:00PM Networking Hub (A291)

Day Two Keynote

Wednesday 8th October, 12:30PM License Global Theatre (E200)

From Hollywood to High Street: How Purpose, Fashion & Nostalgia Drive Global Licensing

Wednesday 8th October, 1:00PM Networking Hub (A291)

Rethinking Licensing

Wednesday 8th October, 3:00PM Networking Hub (A291)

State of the Nation: The Brand Licensing Forecast

Thursday 9th October, 10:00AM License Global Theatre (E200)

Speed Networking Thursday 9th October, 10:00AM Networking Hub (A291)

From Passion to Profession: Navigating Career Paths in an Ever-evolving Industry Landscape

Thursday 9th October, 11:00AM License Global Theatre (E200)

From Scroll to Sale: Unlocking Micro-Influencer Impact

Thursday 9th October, 11:00AM Networking Hub (A291)

BLE features purposeful content across all show days

BLE 2025 will feature a full programme of purposeful content woven through all three days of the event, from charity support to the Care Bears Zen Den, a fun run and career mentoring.

This year’s Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) will feature a full programme of content running over all three days of the event, which takes place from 7th-9th October at ExCel London.

New Charity Partnerships

BLE is partnering with two new charities: Save the Children and Sebby’s Corner. Save the Children (Stand B276) will showcase how licensing can create meaningful social impact and attendees are invited to find the special edition ‘Cs’ in the BLE signage across the show floor. The designs use artwork from children around the world through projects funded by Save the Children.

Sebby’s Corner provides support to vulnerable families living in poverty across London, including people escaping domestic abuse, refugees, asylum seekers and victims of modern slavery and human trafficking. The charity’s team will talk to exhibitors about how they can support the charity through donating BLE display and sample products at the end of the show or through financial donations and/or volunteering.

Sustainability Focus

• Tuesday, 4:00 – 5:00PM - Sustainability power hour from Products of Change (Networking Hub). Beyond compliance: legislation driving change

• Highlighting key global and European sustainability regulations shaping the future for brand owners and licensees, and an exclusive preview of the Maturity Index.

• Tuesday, 4:00 – 5:00PM - From soap to screen: sustainable partnerships in action

• Join Lush and Paramount as they explore how licensing partnerships can seamlessly combine doing good with doing business.

• Wednesday, 3:00 – 3:30PM – Rethinking licensing (Networking Hub)

• Licensees are invited to join this session to discover how to build brands that truly last through responsibility, collaboration and storytelling that taps into people’s emotions.

Wellbeing For All

• Tuesday, 7:00 – 7:30AM – Dockside Dash (Dockers Statue, Excel Western Entrance)

• Join in a 30-minute fun run around the Royal Victoria Dock. Everyone's welcome and it’s free to join.

Student Day

• Wednesday, 4:00 - 4:30PM - Boosting wellbeing in retail & brand licensing: Thrive personally, grow professionally, succeed collectively (LG Theatre)

• Join Helen Lynch and Katie Rollings as they introduce Boost - the new wellbeing connection hub created to help professionals and brands build connections and thrive in retail and brand licensing.

• Massage Lounge – Stand F145

• The Massage Lounge, in partnership with the Community Massage Project, offers professional massage treatments for relaxation and wellness. Visitors pay-what-they-feel and in turn help support gifting free massages to local charities.

• Zen Den in partnership with Care Bears – Stand E151

• Just as each Care Bear represents values like love, hope and emotional support, the Zen Den offers attendees a space to relax, recharge and prioritise their well-being.

• Erve and Lotto launch partnership with pickleball activation – Stand D231

• Erve and Lotto are serving up a new partnership at BLE 2025 and launching it with a pickleball twist – join them for a game on the full size pickleball court and don’t miss the special guest players at 2:30PM on Day One and Two.

BLE is partnering with several educational institutions with students invited to attend the show’s Day Two keynote and enjoy a guided tour, which will showcase all that’s great about the licensing industry, illustrating the numerous career options available and dropping a little industry education along the way.

New Networking Opportunities

• Tuesday, 2:00 – 2:45PM – New to show & solo traveller mixer (Networking Hub)

• New to BLE and solo travelling attendees are invited to this new networking mixer to meet others in the same boat, build connections and share licensing tips.

• Wednesday, 9:15 – 10:00AM – Sip & share networking (Networking Hub)

• This interactive networking session features coffee cups with conversation starters, designed to spark engaging discussions and help build new relationships.

• Thursday, 10:00 – 10:45AM– Speed networking (Networking Hub)

• A fast-paced, high-energy session designed to connect like-minded professionals.

Career Development and Mentoring

• Thursday, 11:00 – 11:40 - From Passion to Profession: Navigating Career Paths in an Ever-Evolving Industry Landscape (LG Theatre)

• Join the panel featuring three brand licensing industry experts sharing their career journeys, valuable lessons and professional advice.

DAY 1

Hasbro Licensing hasbrobrandpr@hasbro.com

Stand A211

At BLE 2025, Hasbro will be demonstrating the breadth, depth and cultural resonance of its brands through powerful licensing opportunities.

Monopoly is celebrating 90 years in market throughout 2025. With more than one billion players and over 300 culturally relevant editions, Monopoly continues to reflect what’s trending in pop culture, staying true to the competitive gameplay that has made it a multigenerational favourite. With over 275m copies sold and more than 300 licensed editions, from Harry Potter and Stitch to The Beatles and NBA Panini Prizm, there’s a Monopoly for everyone. In 2025, new formats keep the brand fresh, including a refreshed classic game, themed expansion packs, the record-breaking Monopoly Go! app and new App Banking Edition.

Beyond the board, Monopoly’s licensing spans fashion, lifestyle, collectibles and FMCG promotions. Collaborations with Drmers Club, Arthur Sleep, Timex, Loungefly and Flamingo Candles extend its cultural reach, while activations like Carrefour’s Monopoly Month and the returning McDonald’s x Monopoly game engage fans globally. Immersive experiences thrive with Monopoly Lifesized, the Monopoly Tea Tour and more opportunities for fans in real life.

Following the brand’s 20th anniversary, Peppa Pig has entered a bold new chapter with the February 2025 reveal of Mummy Pig’s pregnancy and the arrival of Baby Evie, the first new family member in franchise history. Celebrated globally through the Peppa Meets the Baby cinema experience, Evie’s debut has sparked innovation across infant, plush, apparel, publishing, home and health. Partners from Zara and Sinsay to Hill House Home are delivering Evie-inspired fashion, while Lego, Character Options, Ravensburger, 8th Wonder, Wow Stuff!, Simba Toys and Ty launch new play patterns and plush. In home and lifestyle, Character World’s bedding range, Danilo and Moonpig greeting collections and DNC and Zak tableware bring Peppa into everyday family moments.

Publishing launches from Scholastic, Ladybird and Story House Egmont expand Evie’s storytelling globally. Fans are meeting her at Peppa Pig Theme Parks, World of Play centres and European live tours, cementing Evie as the heart of Peppa’s next era. With over 1,000 partners worldwide, Peppa Pig continues to grow its legacy as an entertainment franchise loved across generations.

From big-screen icons to brick builds, the Transformers franchise is shifting into high gear with fresh storytelling, next-gen innovation and dynamic cross-category growth. The brand’s cross-generational appeal spans nostalgic fans to kids discovering Autobots and Decepticons for the first time. This summer, Transformers: Cyberworld debuted on YouTube, hurling Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Elita-1, Megatron and Grimlock into a video game-inspired universe for kids aged 6–11. For older audiences, Energon Universe comics from Skybound Entertainment continue to sell out, captivating readers with bold crossover storylines alongside G.I. Joe.

Innovation drives products too, with Robosen’s programmable robots, Lego’s Soundwave and Mattel’s Masters of the Universe crossover figures headline fan-first offerings, with Blokees blind-box mechs launching in autumn. Retailtainment remains key, with the standalone Transformers store at London’s Battersea Power Station delivering immersive brand experiences. With over 400m pony figures sold and billions of streams across YouTube, Netflix and Spotify, My Little Pony continues to inspire fans worldwide. Building on the success of its trading cards, the brand launched its first trading card game this year in partnership with Kayou in China. Fashion collaborations span Hot Topic, Lola + The Boys, Name It, Sinsay, Jennyfer, Loungefly and HeyDude, while collectibles from Mighty Jaxx, New Zealand Mint, Reesee and Ty delight fans of all ages. Now, celebrating the 15th anniversary of the fan-favourite Friendship is Magic series, My Little Pony is blending legacy with storytelling, music and pop culture touchpoints, galloping into a new era of connection and creativity.

As The World’s Greatest Roleplaying Game for over 50 years, Dungeons & Dragons engages over 85m fans worldwide across fantasy, video games and entertainment. Recent highlights include fashion from BlackMilk, storytelling from Dark Horse Comics and collectibles from Sirius Dice and WizKids. The critically acclaimed Horrified: Dungeons & Dragons. Live, The Twenty-Sided Tavern interactive stage show heads to Los Angeles, while Dungeon Master University debuts in 2026. On screen, The Forgotten Realms live-action series is in development at Netflix.

Launching the trading card game genre in 1993, Magic: The Gathering has grown into Hasbro’s first $1b brand and become a global cultural engine. Its ever-expanding ecosystem spans streaming, digital games, publishing, consumer products, live events and high-profile IP crossovers. With rich lore and a vibrant, inclusive community, Magic continues to captivate over 50m fans of all ages around the globe. Recent Secret Lair drops have celebrated beloved franchises including Marvel’s Deadpool, SpongeBob SquarePants and Sonic the Hedgehog. Looking ahead to 2025, fans can anticipate thrilling collaborations such as Magic x Final Fantasy, as well as upcoming sets featuring Marvel’s Spider-Man and Paramount’s Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Netflix’s adult animated series, based on the iconic game, is currently in production with a fresh creative vision led by showrunner Terry Matalas. Meanwhile, Legendary Entertainment is developing a live-action feature film and an expansive television universe, bringing the world of Magic to life on the big screen.

BLE Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products

www.wbd.com

Stand B121

Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP) returns to Brand Licensing Europe 2025 with a bold multi-year strategic plan to unlock the full value of its iconic entertainment portfolio. From blockbuster franchises and upcoming theatrical releases like Wuthering Heights and Practical Magic 2 to beloved classics and nostalgic animation, WBDGCP is driving sustained commercial growth. Licensees and retailers can expect a rich pipeline of compelling storytelling, deep fan engagement and innovative brand experiences that extend far beyond the screen.

Following the success of Superman, the first chapter in a bold new era for the iconic super hero which has soared at the box office, having already surpassed $550m, attention now turns to a slate of new and upcoming releases from DC Studios.

From DC Studios, in association with Warner Bros. Television, Peacemaker returned on HBO Max for an eight-episode, second season on 21st August. Upcoming releases from DC Studios include Supergirl (June 2026), Clayface (2026) and the live-action TV series Lanterns (2026), from HBO in association with DC Studios and Warner Bros. Television.

The ever-popular Batman also continues to take centre stage, with licensee and retail activity building for the highly anticipated second season of Warner Bros. Animation’s Batman: Caped Crusader, on Prime Video. Meanwhile, momentum builds in the pre-school space as DC and Warner Bros. Animation’s Batwheels continues to gain traction across EMEA, following the third season being greenlit in late 2024.

The 25th anniversary of the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the first film from the record-breaking movie franchise and global entertainment phenomenon, will be celebrated across all business divisions throughout 2026. Fans worldwide can engage through curated anniversary products, global theatrical re-releases and year-round celebrations, including Butterbeer Season (March–May), Harry Potter’s Birthday (July), the beloved Back to Hogwarts celebrations (August–September) and Christmas in the wizarding world, allowing fans to engage over the festive period. There are a host of plans in store which are perfectly placed to engage and excite the fandom ahead of the much-anticipated HBO Original TV show, in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television, which will hit screens in 2027 and is currently in production at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden.

Based on the revered The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit books by J.R.R. Tolkien, New Line Cinema’s epic six-film series directed by Peter Jackson has been embraced by generations of fans, earning $6b at the global box office and 17 Academy Awards, becoming the most awarded series in cinematic history. In 2026, the Lord of the Rings franchise marks its 25th anniversary, building momentum toward the 2027 theatrical release of Lord of The Rings: The Hunt for Gollum. Audience enthusiasm for this epic saga remains high. WBDGCP will celebrate the milestone through year-round activations, while continuing to fuel passion for Middle-earth through this highly anticipated release and additional films in development.

Innovative adaptations of classic animation properties will take centre stage at BLE, including Gokko x Tom and Jerry, a kawaii style reinterpretation of WB’s classic characters, which was launched globally to critical appeal in July 2025 during the iconic duo’s 85th anniversary year. Gokko saw incredible popularity across the global community, resonating especially strongly with fans across the APAC region. This new interpretation of everyone’s favourite cat and mouse duo is supported by a brand-new Consumer Products programme that is heroed in lifestyle and plush.

Looney Tunes continues to cement itself into pop culture as the franchise expands on its partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC). In 2026, the beloved characters will once again cheer on the athletes and entertain fans during the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games, a milestone year that also marks the 30th anniversary of Space Jam. Brandnew Scooby-Doo content has also been confirmed for 2027.

Warner Bros. Pictures Animation has also been underway developing new feature length animated movies under WBA president, Bill Damaschke, promising an exciting slate, with the highly anticipated Bad Fairies (July 2027), a darkly whimsical musical twist on fairy lore which is set in contemporary London and promises to be a vibrant and unforgettable story, and Margie Claus (November 2027), a comedic heart-warming holiday adventure starring Melissa McCarthy.

The development of horror as a genre continues to be a priority for WBD, including brand-new TV event moments, including The Conjuring: Last Rites and IT: Welcome to Derry, both of which will be coming out later this year.

Stand C181

Squishmallows is a global lifestyle brand that has become one of the most beloved and fastest-growing properties in the world. Since its launch in 2017, the brand has enchanted fans with its ultra-soft texture, distinctive character personalities and irresistible collectability. With over 485m plush sold in more than 60 countries, Squishmallows holds the title of No.1 plush globally.

Since launching its licensing programme in 2022, Squishmallows has expanded rapidly across key lifestyle categories, including fashion, accessories, home, health & beauty, publishing and confectionery. Today, the brand partners with 140 global licensees, including 45+ across EMEA, establishing a powerful footprint in retail and licensing.

The brand's retail presence continues to grow with leading UK names including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencer, Next, H&M, Smyths, B&M and across the EU with C&A, Smyk and Name It. Across categories, from apparel and bedding to gifting and beauty, Squishmallows licensed products are consistently among the best-performing SKUs, supported by high-impact point-of-sale and promotional activity.

On social, Squishmallows has generated over 14.9b organic impressions, led by hyper-engaged fans across TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat. The community continues to fuel brand buzz through content sharing and collection reveals. In 2025, the brand launched a dynamic new TVC showcasing bold visuals and an upbeat soundtrack. A Snapchat campaign generated 47m impressions in just two weeks, while an Ultimate Squish Hunt activation at Smyths Toys saw 50+ influencers creating trend-led content that reached millions.

PR momentum has been equally impressive. Frumpy the Grumpy Goth Bigfoot appeared on This Morning as a standout toy, and Stitch Squishmallows was named Best Gift for a Nine-Year-Old by Indy Best. The brand’s takeover of Go Girl magazine became the best-selling issue of the last 12 months, demonstrating its strong influence with the publication’s demographic. The third annual Squishmallows Day, celebrated in March 2025, generated 7.6m impressions, driven by fan-led storytelling and community-first content.

Experiential retail remains a core focus for brand engagement. At Selfridges, Squishmallows continues to host a dedicated brand space. Following a 2024 Squish Squad summer installation with an infinity selfie mirror, the space was refreshed in early 2025 with bold street-style graffiti designs, inviting fans to interact and share their love of the brand through immersive experiences.

Licensing momentum remains strong across both core and emerging categories. Horizon Group USA's Squishmallows Slime Topper Jars have proven to be a standout hit, selling out at retail and becoming a firm fanfavourite. In health & beauty, Ordo continues to disrupt the oral care space with its award-winning Squishmallows electric toothbrush line. Stocked in Boots, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and more, it was named Best Kids Electric Toothbrush by both The Independent and The Guardian.

New and upcoming launches in 2025 reflect the brand’s continued expansion and innovation. The second global McDonald’s Happy Meal promotion recently introduced fans to a new scale of collectability and range of styles, reinforcing the brands’ mass appeal and family-friendly presence. Puma.com launched a second collection of Squishmallows-inspired trainers, blending sporty style with playful design. Pez Candy introduced a range of collectible dispensers featuring three fan-favourite characters: Junie, Cam and Patty. Following the runaway success of Panini’s sticker book, Squishmallows debuted its first trading card collection, selling over 300K units in the first few weeks of release in the UK. Oodie launched a new collection globally in September 2025, with Cam and Patty Oodies and matching nightwear.

Yet to come in 2025, Procos will launch partyware and celebration lines, while The Carat Shop will have jewellery and accessories. Little Brother Books will launch annuals, Skinnydip will have fashion-forward apparel and accessories and Themed will showcase bespoke wall art collections.

From plush to publishing, fashion to food and collectibles to content, Squishmallows continues to define what a 360-degree lifestyle brand can be. It’s not just about the product; it’s about the feeling. Joyful, nostalgic, comforting and expressive, Squishmallows has built a world that fans want to live in, and one that continues to grow in relevance and resonance year after year.

At BLE, Jazwares is excited to showcase the next chapter for Squishmallows, bringing its soft, cute and collectible DNA to even more lifestyle categories. With strong retail traction, cultural relevance and emotional connection across all ages, Squishmallows continues to redefine what a plush brand can be.

BLE Paramount Consumer Products & Experiences

www.paramount.com

ukcpmarketing@paramount.com

Stand A121

Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, continues to lead in storytelling and innovation, delivering engaging content for all ages. With a portfolio of iconic and fresh IP, Paramount Consumer Products & Experiences offers opportunities that captivate fans and inspire partners alike.

Building on the unstoppable momentum of Paw Patrol, the holiday season will welcome A Paw Patrol Christmas, a brand-new hour-long special coming to Nick Jr. and Paramount+, as well as UK cinemas on 7th November 2025. This autumn/winter brings fresh excitement with the launch of the new Fire Rescue theme, followed in spring 2026 by the introduction of Search & Rescue, complete with a new HQ in Adventure Bay, new vehicles and more high-energy adventures. These content highlights will be joined by new specials in 2026, all leading into the eagerly anticipated Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie. Arriving exclusively in UK cinemas on 7th August 2026, the third film in the franchise features an all-star cast including Mckenna Grace, Terry Crews, Meredith MacNeill, Jameela Jamil, Paris Hilton, Snoop Dogg, Bill Nye and franchise veteran Ron Pardo. Off-screen, the multi-year To the Rescue campaign from Spin Master Entertainment and Paramount will continue, supporting parents in fostering teamwork, problem solving and imagination in toddlers. In the UK, location-based entertainment will expand with the first Paw Patrol-themed land opening at Chessington World of Adventures in 2026.

Celebrating the Dora franchise’s 25th anniversary, the summer of 2025 brought a wave of new launches and fresh adventures. Since July, new consumer products spanning apparel, toys and publishing have hit the shelves. The Great Dora Fiesta also marked the release of the live-action feature film Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado on Paramount+, alongside the third season of the CG-animated series, Dora, a new Diego special and a new album of songs. The momentum continues this Q4 with the launch of a fourth Dora season, introducing new thematics including mermaids, accompanied by an hour-long global mermaid cinema event featuring four exclusive episodes, arriving in the UK on 3rd October 2025. Fans can keep enjoying fresh digital content across Dora’s official YouTube channel, Nick Jr. and Toymation. Looking ahead to October, the franchise will once again support girls’ education through International Day of the Girl and The Dora Fund. October will also see the launch of Dora: Rainforest Rescue, a new video game adventure from Outright Games. Momentum will carry forward into 2026 and beyond, with a new cross-company campaign, specials, seasons and collaborations and activations planned to keep fans engaged and inspired.

SpongeBob SquarePants is also making a splash this festive season with The SpongeBob Movie: The Search for SquarePants, arriving in UK cinemas on 26th December 2025. SpongeBob and friends dive into a world of haunted shipwrecks, mythological monsters and spine-tingling surprises, facing the villainous ghost of the Flying Dutchman, voiced by Mark Hamill. In 2026 and beyond, the franchise will continue with new seasons and the launch of the Bikini Bottom Bites retail programme, bringing SpongeBob’s most iconic eats to life in a crosscategory product lineup, ensuring the franchise delights fans across all platforms.

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) are set for another action-packed chapter as Season Two of Tales of the TMNT returns this Q4. Building on the success of the critically acclaimed 2023 feature film TMNT: Mutant Mayhem and ahead of its upcoming sequel, due in cinemas 9th September 2027, the series is part of a packed slate for the heroes in a half shell. Paramount Consumer Products will launch a comprehensive global marketing campaign celebrating the multi-iteration franchise that generations of fans have grown to love. The Turtles’ cinematic universe will expand further with a second theatrical, an adaptation of The Last Ronin, now in development. Beyond film and TV, an always-on strategy will deliver more YouTube releases and a dynamic gaming slate, building on the success of previous Fortnite integrations like the recent Snoop Dogg collaboration.

The Avatar: The Last Airbender franchise celebrates its 20th anniversary this year with new digital content, immersive experiences and exclusive products and games. Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert arrived in the UK and globally, with more dates set for 2026, while YouTube is set to launch new Chibi-style shorts and a short-form Roblox series. Fans can also look forward to a new toy line from Jazwares and a Magic: The Gathering set launching in November. The momentum continues with The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender arriving in cinemas on 9th October 2026, the animated series Avatar: Seven Havens in development and a return to Fortnite via Unreal Editor in 2026.

Star Trek marks its 60th anniversary in 2026 with a galaxy-sized campaign celebrating six decades of storytelling and innovation. Highlights include exclusive products, global fan events and the Paramount+ debut of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, following a new class of cadets coming of age in the legendary universe. Readers are invited to connect if they see opportunities to fill category gaps on existing franchises or want to join Paramount on newer adventures.

www.universalproductsexperiences.com

Stand A171

Universal Products and Experiences (UP&E) returns to Brand Licensing Europe 2025 with a dynamic line-up of global franchises and blockbuster films, unlocking fresh opportunities across fashion, toys, publishing and more. With stories that resonate across generations, UP&E truly has something for every fan, from pre-schoolers and families to kidults, millennials and collectors.

Wicked: For Good, the epic conclusion to the global sensation that became the most successful Broadway film adaptation of all-time, debuts in November 2025 with an even bigger, more electrifying, culture-defining campaign.

Following a teaser announcement that sparked over 193m views in just 24 hours, everyone’s favourite ogre returns in 2027 as DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek 5 is set to reignite the box office. Also from DreamWorks Animation, Gabby’s Dollhouse continues to celebrate the magic of play with its first-ever cinematic adventure, Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie, debuting in theatres in September 2025. With Netflix content secured through 2028, a live touring stage show and theme park activations worldwide, the brand continues to expand at a record pace.

Meanwhile, the How to Train Your Dragon live-action franchise soars ahead with a second film landing in 2027.

Following a major box-office milestone marking the first animated franchise to cross $5b worldwide, Illumination’s Despicable Me’s newest release, Minions 3, will debut in theatres in July 2026. Additionally, fans can get ready to power up for Nintendo and Illumination’s new animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros. The latest instalment to the highestgrossing video game adaptation of all time arrives in theatres in April 2026.

Following the global box office triumph of Jurassic World: Rebirth, one of only three studio films to surpass $800m worldwide, the legendary franchise continues its evergreen momentum into 2026 and beyond. Upcoming highlights include the launch of the highly anticipated Jurassic Park: Survival video game and Season Four of Jurassic World: Chaos Theory.

UP&E’s vault properties and anniversaries showcase the power of NBCUniversal’s legacy and its continual impact on culture today. In 2026, UP&E will celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Fast and Furious as well as the legendary Universal Monsters including the 95th anniversaries of both Frankenstein and Dracula.

Interested parties are invited to visit UP&E at BLE to explore licensing partnerships across these world-class properties.

BLE BBC Studios

Stand B181

BBC Studios returns to BLE to showcase its portfolio of successful brands including global hit Bluey, which is rapidly evolving into a culturally resonant brand with multigenerational appeal. Attendees at BLE 2025 will see fresh opportunities across both primary and new categories for Bluey, including toy, books, fashion, FMCG and more.

Bluey remains one of the world’s most-watched TV series. In the US, it was the most-streamed show in the first half of 2025 with 25b minutes viewed, according to Nielsen. With over 13b digital views and a surging TikTok following, Bluey is resonating with parents, kids, teens, adults and pop culture fans alike. The brand’s CP footprint is expanding: Converse has launched a global limited-edition collection of Bluey footwear, apparel and accessories designed for all ages and Bluey’s growing FMCG range spans cereals with Kellogg’s (UK and select EMEA markets), fromage frais with Yeo Valley (UK), healthy snacks with Hero (UK), bath products with Childs Farm (UK), vitamins with Natures Aid (UK), oral care including the territorial expansion of the Colgate partnership (UK and select EMEA markets) and more.

Core licensing categories like toy remain strong. Master toy partner Moose Toys’ Bluey range has launched in Japan via Takara Tomy, while Lego Bluey sets have launched globally trade-wide. After a successful debut at Camp Bestival, a full-size Bluey Food Truck toured Smyths stores across the UK as part of Home of Bluey Toys promotion. Another highlight from Moose Toys is the Supermarket Playset, inspired by the Bluey episode "Kids", with three levels of play loaded with fun features and exclusive figures. New UK and pan-EMEA signings include Mookie Toys for outdoor play products and Malte Haaning for Bluey Hama beads. Launching from autumn/winter 2026, Bluey teams up with Brio to bring the brand into Brio’s world of imaginative railway and role play adventures.

Publishing remains a cornerstone of success with three New York Times best-sellers. Penguin Random House has sold millions of Bluey books worldwide, including 3.5m copies through UK TCM, 15.3m in the US, 9.8m in Australia (sales through warehouse) and over 1m copies sold to retailers across French-speaking territories (accurate as of August 2025).

Upcoming releases include a deluxe hardcover comic-style chapter book version of The Sign. In addition, Bluey: Wackadoo! Bluey Words and Sounds Sound Book from PI Kids and Bluey My Busy Books from Phidal Publishing are available in the UK and select EMEA markets. BBC Studios has also partnered with Faber Music to launch Bluey: First Ever Piano Book worldwide from October, featuring compositions by Joff Bush.

Gaming continues to drive engagement. Lego Bluey Mobile Game, made in partnership with Story Toys, launched in August and reached No.1 Kids/iPad game in 117 countries and landed over half a million downloads on launch week. Several other high-profile new game launches and brand integrations are on the horizon.

Bluey short-form content commissions keep coming, with four brand-new short-form series announced this summer: Bluey Tunes, Bluey Puppets, Bluey Cookalongs and Bluey Fancy Restaurant. The latest, Fancy Restaurant, airs globally on 14th October, with more short-form content on the way.

The popularity of Bluey’s music led to it surpassing one billion lifetime audio streams across all platforms in July and saw Bluey: Rug Island top both Billboard’s Kids Album Chart and the Soundtrack Album Chart in the US in 2024.

Live experiences are growing rapidly. Brisbane’s Bluey’s World was named one of Time’s World’s Greatest Places for 2025. Due to unprecedented demand, the immersive experience has been extended until March 2026. Following a highly successful global tour, Bluey’s Big Play: The Stage Show returns to the UK this year, alongside performances in Spain and its debut in Poland in November. In 2026, the hit live show will head back to Australia for a nationwide tour. Live entertainment will also take centre stage in Brazil with Bluey Live.

In EMEA, Bluey continues to expand; the brand will debut in Türkiye on the Spacetoon TV Türkiye channel, with Spacetoon International adding Türkiye to its existing representation agreement as local licensing agent. Moose Toys has appointed Neco Toys as toy distributor, with Penguin Random House partnering with Isbank Cultural Publications for local book publishing. Toy launches are set for later this year, with books following in 2026.

With a cinematic debut set for 6th August 2027, Bluey’s global momentum shows no sign of slowing. As new categories, content, partnerships and live experiences roll out, Bluey heads into BLE 2025 as both a licensing powerhouse and a pop culture phenomenon resonating across generations.

Another brand to spotlight is Doctor Who, which continues to captivate fans with bold new consumer products and immersive brand experiences. The Barbie x Doctor Who collaboration brought the Fifteenth Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) and companion Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson) to life in collectible form, unveiled at MCM London Comic Con and now available globally via Mattel Creations, Amazon and major retailers. BBC Studios also launched The Whoniverse Show, a digital magazine-style series on YouTube, offering fans exclusive content, product reveals and behind-the-scenes insights.

During San Diego Comic-Con 2025, Doctor Who made a major impact with the immersive Unit Black Archive pop-up experience, showcasing iconic props, monsters and exclusive merchandise, alongside the debut of the BBC Shop online that features exclusive Doctor Who collections and the Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder: Where Science Meets Fiction exhibition at the Comic-Con Museum. These initiatives reflect the brand’s growing global footprint and its commitment to engaging fans across platforms, products and experiences.

Since launching in 2014, Hey Duggee has become a seventime BAFTA and international Emmy award-winning hit. Since its debut, the series has had over half a billion stream requests on BBC iPlayer and garnered over 3.8b lifetime views on its official YouTube channel. The series is available across 150+ territories in 30+ languages, with season one recently landing on Netflix in the US. The Live Theatre Show, an adaptation of the hugely popular CBeebies series, won the Olivier Award for best family show in 2023.

Also this year, BBC Studios Digital Brands was announced as commercial agent for Bing on YouTube, building new revenue streams for the series and expanding footprint in the pre-school space.

Finally, fans of The Weakest Link can now play for themselves at home with a brand-new board game that is now available. This game brings the drama, tension and excitement of the hit TV show right into living rooms: players must answer trivia questions, build chains and bank the most money to stay in the game.

Sega

020 8996 4594 | www.sega.com | soebrandlicensing@sega.co.uk

Stand A181

At BLE 2025, Sega will showcase its flagship properties, continuing its tradition of developing innovative and influential franchises including Sonic the Hedgehog, Persona, Shinobi, Crazy Taxi and more.

Sonic remains integral to Sega’s licensing strategy, with a major 35th anniversary celebration planned for 2026. This milestone underscores the franchise’s significant impact on gaming, film, entertainment and merchandise over the past three and a half decades. Sega will further expand Sonic’s brand presence through strategic collaborations with leading partners, including McLaren, extending the franchise into automotive, lifestyle and music sectors to reach a broader global audience. Paramount Pictures has also confirmed the release of a fourth instalment in the film series, Sonic the Hedgehog 4, scheduled for 19th March 2027.

Sega is reintroducing iconic intellectual properties such as Shinobi, Jet Set Radio and Crazy Taxi through the development of new video games, transmedia initiatives and consumer products. These efforts both honour Sega’s rich legacy and seek to engage new audiences.

Marking its 30th anniversary, the Persona series continues to be a significant asset for Sega. The franchise recently garnered critical acclaim with Atlus’ Metaphor: ReFantazio, further establishing Sega’s prominence in story-driven RPGs and fantasy gaming.

For collaboration opportunities with Sega, please visit the Sega booth at BLE or contact the team at the details above.

This summer, Squaroes by Ultimate Guard reached a major milestone, with over 100 unique character designs released. These collectible boxes feature superheroes, beloved animated characters and iconic sci-fi figures. Closing out Q3, Ultimate Guard released the My Little Pony Squaroes deck boxes, a one-time series that sold out at distributor level in the US and generated more than $100,000 in revenue. The success of this edition highlights an important trend: Squaroes can reach across fan communities and resonate with very different audiences. While My Little Pony carries a unique family-friendly appeal, it still follows the proven formula of Squaroes – limited-run, high-quality deck boxes that quickly become collectibles.

The same model drove the SpongeBob SquarePants editions which introduced the brand to fans of animated comedies, and the Avatar: The Last Airbender first edition, which tapped into a dedicated fandom eager to bring its characters to the game table. Together, these releases show how Squaroes can adapt to a wide range of licences while maintaining its core identity as a collectible, sustainable and functional product for trading card game players and collectors.

Looking ahead, Ultimate Guard is set to grow its lineup of collaborations with existing partners while welcoming new ones, including anime and manga heavyweights Crunchyroll and Kodansha. The year ahead promises even more excitement with its newest licensor Netflix and a release calendar packed with licensed fan-favourite series.

Sustainability is a defining part of the brand. Squaroes is a sub-brand of Ultimate Guard, powered by Heo in Germany. Each Squaroes box is produced in a facility that runs on green energy and uses 78% renewable resources, offering a sustainable yet durable way to collect and store trading cards. Unlike other eco-friendly solutions such as cardboard, Squaroes does not sacrifice durability or style. Squaroes deck boxes are a first-of-their-kind collectible that bring functionality and fandom together, adding excitement and joy to the game table.

Boat Rocker Studios

www.boatrocker.com

Stand D193

Boat Rocker Studios is sailing into BLE with a renewed energy, following its transition back to private ownership.

The global, independent entertainment company will present a slate of exciting properties, including Dino Ranch: Island Explorers, the highly anticipated spin-off of the hit pre-school series Dino Ranch. This 52 x 11’ CG-animated adventure propels the Cassidy family into thrilling new adventures as they trade their cowboy hats for explorer hats and head off to the mysterious and exotic Dino Island. Home to Uncle Jack Cassidy and teeming with new dinosaur species, humongous insects and prehistoric amphibians, Dino Island offers the intrepid clan a chance to explore its exhilarating jungle, active volcano and the previously undiscovered world under the water. The series is rolling out internationally in 2026.

The Next Step also takes centre stage. Fresh from the success of its 10th season across CBBC, BBC iPlayer, YTV and ABC iView, the hit dance drama is set to leap beyond the screen with a brand-new Live Tour which will kick off in the UK in early 2026, before heading to Canada and Australia. Meanwhile, Pineapple Dance Studios’ collaboration with TNS continues. Now in its sixth year, Pineapple Studios continues to host online and in-person TNS-themed dance classes and has a Pineapple x TNS active wear collection available on its online shop and on the Next website.

In 2026, Britain’s greatest secret agent, Danger Mouse, celebrates his 45th anniversary, a milestone for a character which has thrilled generations with his high-stakes antics and razorsharp humour. Boat Rocker Studios is planning a dynamic campaign to mark the occasion, with multiple collaborations across fashion, lifestyle and collectibles that highlight his iconic status and playful personality. Key partners already include Forbidden Planet, Character Wear, Art of Play, Blue Goblin, Truffle Shuffle, Jambats, Rainbow, Cotton Division and Murwalls. With more partners to come, Danger Mouse will return to the cultural spotlight in style, and with cross-generational appeal, the anniversary celebrations promise to be a heroic moment for fans and partners alike.

Meeting Table E165-3

The Science Museum, one of the UK’s most respected and authentic voices in science, continues to innovate with its STEM product lines.

Following the launch of its STEM badge last year, a reassuring mark of quality for licensees and customers, the museum has released a series of licensed products that have been created to align with its educational values and scientific ethos. Emphasising the power of learning through play, these products transform complex concepts into engaging, accessible experiences for families and individuals alike. Each toy provides endless hours of enjoyment while cultivating the scientists of tomorrow.

The Science Museum’s innovative lighting range, the first to feature the new badge, was launched in early 2025. Exploring the science behind light, this range includes products for all ages such as plasma balls, fibre optic and tornado lamps and an energy stick.

Then came the Science Museum’s Materials Science range: a hands-on collection that explores the science behind everyday materials through fun, tactile play, from non-Newtonian fluids (whose viscosity changes under stress) to chromism (a reversible change in the colours of a compound) to gravity and polymers. This range includes slime and slime-making kits, as well as putties, crystal growing kits, bouncy ball making kits and a springy. For example, the Science Museum Noodle Slime Kit features strands of String Slime that bend, snap and reseal.

With plans to release new products in spring 2026, the Science Museum invites licensees to discuss further opportunities. Visit sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/ brandlicensing for more information or check out its stand at Brand Licensing Europe 2025.

BLE Minecraft

Stand A261 (CAA Brands UK)

Mojang Studios, the creative team behind Minecraft, the top-selling video game, returns to Brand Licensing Europe 2025 led by Hanna Willis, head of Consumer Products. The team will spotlight an expanding global licensing programme built around fresh collaborations, innovative products and immersive experiences designed to delight kids, adults and families.

With over 250 active licensees worldwide, Minecraft is a billion-dollar brand that continues to thrive across entertainment, lifestyle and consumer products.

Following the record-breaking success of A Minecraft Movie, grossing over $950m worldwide, the brand has reached a new milestone in cultural relevance. The film’s impact has fuelled massive consumer demand, sparking new opportunities for partners to engage fans across every age group.

Minecraft’s latest partnerships combine play, fashion, food and collectibles, bringing the blocky world to life in exciting, real-world ways. The Adidas Originals x Minecraft collection launched globally in June 2025, with apparel, footwear and the in-game Adidas Adventurers Add-On bridging gaming, sports and culture. KontrolFreek x Minecraft was launched in July 2025, with new Creeper Edition performance thumbsticks and grips giving fans of all ages an edge on next-gen consoles. Swarovski crystal figurines of Steve, Alex, Creeper and Pig unlock digital rewards in-game, offering fans a physical-digital collectible crossover. A themed Wall’s ice cream bar rollout across Europe invites families to enjoy a sweet treat, from cinemas to grocery shelves. OppoSuits x Minecraft is a playful collection of pixel-perfect apparel, including suits, summer sets, onesies and more for kids to adults, appealing to fans across generations. New product launches continue across continents: Condor’s oral care line in Brazil, Nibblish fruit snacks in Australia/New Zealand, Freiberger frozen pizzas in Europe and Dairy 4 Fun’s yogurts and snacks across the continent. These collaborations ensure Minecraft connects with everyday family life.

Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue continues to expand after successful debuts in Dallas, London and Toronto, giving fans of all ages the chance to step inside the game. Meanwhile, a new Minecraft animated series is in development with Netflix, introducing original characters and storylines. With each new partnership, Minecraft aims to craft experiences that spark connection across generations, welcoming new families into the Minecraft universe while honouring the nostalgia of longtime fans. Whether it’s toys, collectibles, fashion, food or immersive adventures, it is building a brand universe for every part of fans’ lives.

WildBrain CPLG

hello@cplg.com Stand B171

WildBrain CPLG continues to build innovative licensing partnerships across entertainment, corporate, lifestyle, sport and location-based entertainment. With 24 offices covering over 100 territories globally, WildBrain CPLG successfully harnesses its strategic ‘Glocal’ approach, a powerful combination of global reach and local expertise.

WildBrain CPLG’s extensive slate of globally recognised brands is headlined by WildBrain’s iconic franchises – Peanuts, Strawberry Shortcake, Teletubbies and In the Night Garden. Strawberry Shortcake and Teletubbies continue to grow across the globe, with nostalgia amongst multigenerational audiences, as well as creative and fresh execution, elevating their enduring appeal. As Teletubbies marks its 30th anniversary in 2027, WildBrain is celebrating its unique position as a pioneering pre-school series with an expanded licensing programme reaching international markets. Peanuts, which WildBrain CPLG represents in EMEA and Asia-Pacific on behalf of Peanuts Worldwide, continues to mark its 75th anniversary, with a brand-new, original animated special on Apple TV+ and licensing collaborations worldwide.

WildBrain CPLG’s partner brands include Paramount’s powerhouse properties, such as Paw Patrol, SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; Hasbro’s beloved franchises, including Peppa Pig, My Little Pony and Transformers; Dr. Seuss’ slate of family favourites, such as The Grinch and The Cat in the Hat, which has a new movie premiering in November 2026; Sega’s juggernaut franchise Sonic the Hedgehog, which turns 35 in 2026; and Amazon MGM Studios’ hit Wednesday and Rocky franchise, which marks its 50th anniversary in 2026. Further highlights include Spin Master’s extensive portfolio, including Unicorn Academy and Vida the Vet; Supercell’s legendary gaming franchises The World of Clash and Brawl Stars; Playmobil; Sesame Workshop’s Sesame Street; The Peyo Company’s the Smurfs; Sanrio’s Hello Kitty; Fugglers; and Sony Pictures Entertainment’s properties, including the highly anticipated 2026 release Goat.

WildBrain CPLG’s Corporate and Lifestyle division brings a notable line-up including distinguished colleges Yale, Harvard, USC, Cambridge and Columbia; the world’s leading soy sauce brand, Kikkoman; Perfetti Van Melle’s iconic Chupa Chups and Mentos; and premium lifestyle brand, Peugeot.

Stand D162

Pyramid International heads to Brand Licensing Europe with an extensive and diverse portfolio, spanning iconic entertainment franchises, gaming powerhouses, chart-topping music acts and trend-led lifestyle brands. From timeless favourites to fresh new signings, Pyramid continues to be a go-to partner for popular licensed merchandise that resonates with kids, families and the ever-growing kidult market.

Global brands sit at the heart of Pyramid’s line-up: Disney, Star Wars, Harry Potter, Marvel, Minecraft, Stranger Things, Warner Bros., Stitch, Wednesday and Wicked are just a handful of the household names represented across its product ranges. Alongside these evergreen classics, Pyramid also offers an impressive roster of anime licences, ensuring fans of all ages have access to the franchises they love.

Adding to this cultural mix is Pyramid’s K-Pop Demon Hunters range, which taps into one of the fastest-growing entertainment movements in the world. With K-Pop dominating Netflix screens, global music charts and international tours, the new line blends the energy of Korean pop culture with a bold demon-hunter aesthetic. The collection will span not only Pyramid’s core formats but also print-on-demand lines and apparel, giving fans even greater choice and flexibility.

Products across the Pyramid portfolio are designed to sell and keep selling, with consistent demand for best-sellers such as 40oz Tumblers, Maxi Posters, premium

Framed Collector Prints and extensive stationery ranges. Retailers value the company’s ability to deliver designs that stand out on shelf while driving strong repeat business year after year.

Innovation remains a driving force, with a steady stream of new launches keeping the portfolio fresh and relevant. Recent highlights include 30oz Pitchers, fidget-friendly Spinner Keychains, Torch Key Clips, XL Desk Mats and the expansion of licensing into Fashion Backpacks. Pyramid’s trademarked Fuzzy Mugs continue to delight consumers, underlining the company’s reputation for originality and market insight.

As Pyramid looks to the end of 2025, the company is preparing one of its most exciting pipelines yet, with a launch slate that blends global powerhouse licences with trend-led innovation. Highlights include a raft of new collections across PlayStation, Disney’s Stitch, Pusheen, Marvel’s Spidey and His Amazing Friends, Wicked, Stranger Things, Astro Bot and League of Legends.

These properties will be supported by a diverse product rollout. This powerful mix ensures there is something for every demographic, helping retailers maximise footfall and strengthen consumer loyalty during the crucial holiday season. With further innovation already planned for 2026, including fresh formats and seasonal ranges, Pyramid continues to build momentum and deliver opportunities for partners well into the future.

Visitors to BLE can expect to see Pyramid’s most exciting ranges showcased, with the team on hand to share insights and explore new opportunities.

Studio 100 International licensing@studio100int.com

Stand D145

For BLE, Studio 100 International is showcasing a portfolio that blends fast-growing titles with heritage properties celebrating major milestones. From the pre-school hit series Vegesaurs to the 50th TV anniversary of Maya the Bee and her spin-off Arnie & Barney, the line-up offers strong licensing potential.

The international success of Vegesaurs, the series about Ginger and her friends, is already evident with the show airing in over 70 territories including Australia, the UK, France, Canada and Poland, and now it’s set to enter one of Europe’s key broadcast markets. On 8th September, the series, which promotes themes of friendship, sharing and healthy eating, celebrated its German TV debut on children’s channel Kika. Episodes will also be available on Kika, ZDF and ARD’s streaming platforms.

In the US, Vegesaurs has established a strong presence on PBS member stations in major cities and nationwide via PBS Passport. Building on this success, seasons four and five are currently in production, will introduce new characters and by 2026 take the episode total to 100. Off-screen, the brand is also expanding. Master toy partner Epic Story Toys is set to launch a global toy line in early 2026, while other collaborations, including with publishers Macmillan and loyalty partner L-founders, will highlight the brand’s broad licensing potential. After a successful 2024 launch in Sydney, an immersive experience is preparing for a roll-out across the US, Europe and the Middle East.

2025 celebrates Maya the Bee’s 50th international TV anniversary. Studio 100 International is supporting the occasion with a host of activities that will extend into 2026, honouring Maya’s first appearance on German screens. An anniversary logo and style guide, uniting Maya’s original charm with her modern CGI look, is just one of the highlights. A wide-ranging campaign will further strengthen Maya’s social media presence, introducing special Instagram and TikTok filters alongside a Roblox experience that brings her into the UGC gaming space and keeps the character relevant for younger audiences. Planned retail tie-ins such as the “Bee Creative” partnership will drive awareness through social media, crafts and themed kits including pens, glue and scissors. Environmental awareness remains a central theme, with the ongoing Project Poppy Meadow initiative showing children the importance of safeguarding biodiversity in a playful and engaging way. Interactive workshops encourage families to discover how small actions can make a big difference for the natural world.

The spin-off Arnie & Barney gives two beloved characters from Maya’s world their own spotlight. Launching in autumn 2026, the CGI-animated feature film follows the ants on a daring mission to save Poppy Meadow from a drought. Mixing slapstick comedy, secret agent flair and pop culture references, the film is tailored for older children, teens and families, and is designed to appeal to a broader audience. Blending humour, adventure and strong design, Arnie & Barney is set to entertain audiences worldwide and leave a lasting impression.

BLE Natural History Museum

Stand B265

At BLE 2025, the Natural History Museum (NHM) will be showcasing new toy formats from both The Puppet Company and My 1st Years.

This autumn, The Puppet Company is launching an initial range of five dinosaur and one pterosaur plush with NHM, including popular species such as tyrannosaurus, velociraptor and stegosaurus. Developed in consultation with the Museum’s palaeontologists and using realistic printing techniques, the NHM dinosaur plush collection has been developed with accuracy in mind to encourage learning through play. The initial range of twelve-inch plush will be followed in early 2026 with a second phase launch of smaller plush. The range is produced using sustainable materials and eco applications such as embroidered eyes and can be ordered through www. thepuppetcompany.com.

The latest collection from pre-school and personalisation specialist My 1st Years introduces wooden toys into its NHM range for the first time. The NHM Tabletop Museum provides children with their very own miniature Museum to explore and interact with. The set incorporates some of NHM’s most recognisable exhibits including Hope the Whale, Sophie the Stegosaurus, the dodo and giant sequoia, as well as extending out into the popular wildlife garden. Alongside the Tabletop Museum comes the Minibeast Hunt Kit, designed to get children curious and exploring in their gardens or local nature patch. The kit is packaged within a printed canvas pouch and contains a mini net and magnifying glass, alongside eight illustrated wooden discs to help identify creatures such as the common blue butterfly and bumblebee. The full range from My 1st Years, which also includes apparel, accessories and lunchware, is available at www.my1styears.com.

The Museum’s licensing team continues to invest in the children’s side of its portfolio and will be sharing a new children’s style guide at BLE. The Oceans Guide delves into the secret world of oceans, exploring some of the fantastical creatures that call it home. With engaging graphics visualising ocean zones, coral reefs, the very deepest parts of the ocean and more, this new guide offers licensees exciting new assets to work with. Created in the same graphic style as the Minibeasts and Night Creatures Guides, there is a strong and varied range of assets available when considering new toys and games development.

Looking ahead to 2026, NHM will also explore further development with audio toy licensee Tonies following the popularity of the Natural History Museum: Discovery Crew Clever Pocket Tonie.

Additionally, following the appointment earlier this year to represent for licensing, the Natural History Museum will be presenting colourful, publishing-based pre-school brand The World of Dinosaur Roar! The brand has already seen success in the toys and games category with its range of games and puzzles from University Games, and the team is now looking to grow the brand’s presence in this category, including plush.

For more information about the Natural History Museum’s licensing programme, please get in touch with Louisa Skevington, Licensing manager, via the details above.

The Lumistella Company licensing@lumistella.com

Stand A205 (Rocket UK) and A182 (El Ocho Spain)

As The Lumistella Company celebrates 20 years of brand-building and storytelling, the creator of The Elf on the Shelf is unveiling a transformative slate of new licensing partnerships and product innovations. Presented at Brand Licensing Europe 2025, this expanded portfolio demonstrates the company’s commitment to delivering scalable opportunities for retailers and licensees, supported by two decades of proven consumer engagement and market success.

The Elf on the Shelf has grown from a family tradition into a globally recognised trademark, with more than 23m Scout Elves sold, and established licensing programmes in the US, UK, Europe and Australia. The brand’s strong emotional connection with families consistently drives seasonal sell-through, retail theatre and digital engagement, making it one of the most commercially reliable intellectual property assets in the licensing industry. For partners, it offers the rare advantage of both deep consumer resonance and consistent retail performance.

The Lumistella Company is strategically extending its reach with new partners, brokered by Rocket Licensing in the UK, including Unique Party UK (foil balloons) and Wild in Art (Christmas art trail), amongst others. These collaborations expand The Elf on the Shelf Santaverse into categories spanning year-round toys, seasonal confectionery, live events and lifestyle products.

In the UK, community engagement will be amplified through the Liverpool and Bristol BID Co activations, where a 15-foot Scout Elf will tour city centres, creating festive destination experiences and driving footfall to retail. These promotions, along with more to follow, deliver unmatched consumer visibility and engagement. New in 2025, The Lumistella Company is partnering with Wild in Art to deliver a large-scale The Elf on the Shelf sculpture art trail, further enhancing public engagement and opportunities to connect with consumers.

Publishing expands with HarperCollins’ The Rise of Nicholas the Noble middle-school novel, while digital opportunities advance through Outright Games’ first-ever The Elf on the Shelf Christmas Heroes video game, launching across consoles and PC.

With 20 years of proven consumer demand, rapidly diversifying categories and expanding international reach, The Elf on the Shelf continues to stand out as a seasonal powerhouse with year-round growth. At BLE 2025, The Lumistella Company invites partners and retailers to explore how the evolving Santaverse can deliver both emotional engagement and strong commercial returns.

To explore a partnership with the beloved and commercially successful seasonal brand, visit Rocket UK (A205) and El Ocho Spain (A182) on the BLE show floor.

www.blue-zoo.co.uk karen.mcnally@blue-zoo.co.uk

Stand D134

Fresh from its success on CBeebies in the UK, Mojo Swoptops will introduce a slew of new product launches this autumn, bringing its unique swop top mechanic to life in new ways. With over 25m total views, plus a consistent Top 5 placement on CBeebies, the brand's rapid growth proves its magnetic appeal to pre-schoolers and co-viewing parents. With series in production for launch in 2026, the brand is moving from strength to strength. Mojo, alongside best buddy Bo transforming into a fleet of dynamic vehicles, offers plenty of toy potential. This combined with highoctane action, inclusive narratives and humour, sets Mojo Swoptops apart in a competitive market.

A robust, multi-category licensing programme is rolling out this year, designed to leap off shelves worldwide. Bladez Toyz is bringing Mojo's transformations directly into children's hands, as well as a wide range of arts & crafts. In book publishing, Sweet Cherry is set to expand the Mojo Swoptops universe with engaging stories, while Immediate Media will bring the CBeebies character to fans monthly through its magazines. Teemill is offering stylish ways for fans to express their love for the brand, and in cards and gifting, Funky Pigeon will deliver character-filled stationery and presents. Blue Zoo Digital is also offering interactive adventures in the digital gaming space.

With new content, fresh characters and even more inventive tops on the horizon, Mojo Swoptops is poised to become a global pre-school toy sensation. Audiences enjoy the diverse cast, problem-solving adventures and catchphrase-filled fun, while licensees can capitalise on proven engagement, strong broadcast partnerships and cross-demographic appeal.

From the global pre-school hits Alphablocks and Numberblocks to the newer fan favourites Colourblocks and Wonderblocks, the Blocks family has been a powerhouse in early years entertainment and learning. Now, for the first time, all four of these beloved brands come together under one new banner: Blocks Universe. With a combined YouTube audience of 33m daily views and 32m watch hours a month, the Blocks brands have captured the imaginations of children and parents alike worldwide. Blocks Universe brings this world of learning, fun and imagination together, and toys are at the heart of its next big step.

Blocks Universe is a cross-brand, multi-platform world where toys can shine. The unification of all four brands opens the door for cross-brand toy ranges, multi-character product lines and fresh play pattern opportunities that combine literacy, numeracy, creativity and critical thinking into play experiences. From plush and figurines to interactive toys, STEM kits, games and collectibles, the potential to develop toys that bring together the best of all four brands has never been greater.

To find out more about toy licensing, retail partnerships and promotional opportunities for both Mojo Swoptops and Blocks Universe, stop by Blue Zoo’s stand at BLE.

Beano

Stand A202 (Bulldog Licensing)

It’s been three-quarters of a century since Britain’s most iconic mischief-maker, Dennis the Menace, first appeared in Beano, and he’s turning 10 for the 75th time in 2026. For generations, Dennis has inspired kids to laugh, break boundaries and embrace the joy of being unapologetically themselves. More than just a birthday, the anniversary is a fullblown cultural celebration of childhood at its best, filled with laughter, creativity, imagination and mayhem.

Led by Dennis and his loyal sidekick Gnasher, Beano is planning a year-long campaign of bold partnerships, playful product launches and joyful experiences for fans of all ages to join the festivities. The celebrations will begin in March 2026 with a special collectible anniversary issue of the comic, supported by national marketing and PR campaigns. This launch will set the tone for a year of high-impact activations, including a headline-grabbing national moment to get everyone

celebrating and talking. It’s an ideal opportunity for partners to get involved and tap into Dennis’s multigenerational appeal.

Beano is continuing to widen its reach across retail, licensing and experiences. An all-new style guide aimed at adult fans will tap into the nostalgia of the 80s and 90s Beano, with a line-up of homeware, gifts and apparel. Alongside this, new creative assets will continue to fuel ranges for kids. Oddballs has introduced a new family-friendly nightwear range, while Spike Leisurewear and Blues Group will continue to deliver Beano-themed clothing for adults and children alike, covering daywear, nightwear, underwear and dress-up.

Beano is ramping up experience-driven activations with a range of exciting partners. Bakehouse Factory will bring Beano-inspired workshops and activities to shopping centres, while Murwalls will unveil the very first official Beano mural in Waltham Cross this October. Wild in Art will take Dennis to the streets with a brand-new sculpture trail across UK towns, and Gulliver’s Theme Park will host special Dennis and Gnasher appearances at select venues. Beano is also teaming up with Historic Royal Palaces for a set of special live events at iconic locations, including the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, and Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.

Fans can expect a wave of product tie-ins: Dennis-themed watches from Mr Jones Watches, collectible rubber ducks featuring Dennis and Gnasher from Duck World, retro-inspired headwear from Super Retro and playful pet accessories from Woodle Designs. Retail highlights will also include plush and soft toys by KAP Toys, greeting cards by Hype Associates and Danilo Promotions, as well as additional giftable goods.

Publishing continues to be central to Beano’s plans, with the release of the third and fourth books in the increasingly popular Betty and the Yeti novel series by Hugh Raine, alongside two new fiction titles. These include a Pick Your Own Story adventure and a collaboration with an iconic museum, both written by Beano favourites Mike Stirling and Craig Graham.

From mischievous storylines to imaginative brand collaborations, The Year of Mischief promises a year packed with laughter and creativity. Whether through family experiences, innovative products or nationwide campaigns, Beano is ready to make 2026 a truly unforgettable year.

Stand B200

Miraculous Corp, the joint venture between Mediawan and Zag, arrives at BLE 2025 with major news as it celebrates the 10th anniversary of Miraculous – Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir. Since its debut, the series has become a global phenomenon, airing in over 150 countries and captivating audiences with themes of courage, friendship and empowerment. With the sixth season now rolling out globally and a seventh in production, Ladybug and Cat Noir are firmly established as household names and cultural icons.

At BLE 2025, with a mission to inspire future heroes to change the world, Miraculous Corp is unveiling

ambitious new projects that expand the Miraculous universe. Miraculous Stellar Force, the franchise’s first spin-off, is a 2D anime series set in Tokyo, where a team of teenage heroes are empowered by an ancient cosmic force to save Earth. Disney Branded Television has acquired the series for a 2027 launch, ensuring worldwide audiences can connect with its themes of identity, friendship and teamwork amidst cosmic stakes. Ahead of the series, a one-hour special will premiere in 2025. Also, this year, Miraculous Chibi, a 52 x 3’ non-verbal 2D comedy series, will launch on YouTube and TF1. Disney Branded Television will launch the series in 2026.

Across Europe, the 10th anniversary is being marked by a series of immersive activations and retail celebrations. In France, La Grande Récré partnered with licensees for a “Your Miraculous Birthday” contest, complete with in-store product displays, while TF1’s Tfou staged a special broadcast event and King Jouet showcased Ladybug and Cat Noir in 350+ stores. A landmark collaboration with the Château de Versailles transformed the palace gardens into a Miraculous-themed family experience over the summer, supported by promotions in over 80+ La Grande Récré stores and an opportunity for a family of four to win a trip to Paris. Also in Paris, the Jardin d’Acclimatation hosted a Miraculous-themed park experience, rebranding its 400-metre Speed Rockets roller-coaster into the Miraculous Rockets in the heroes’ vibrant colours.

In Germany, Rofu is staging a November retail campaign that features themed displays and a Paris-trip prize draw. In the UK, Bandai and Smyths Toys are bringing the celebration to life with fan meet-and-greets and digital ad campaigns, while in Italy, broadcaster Super dedicated a week of special programming supported by a watch-and-win contest. A multi-market influencer campaign amplified the celebrations across Europe.

The anniversary has also showcased the brand’s cross-category growth. In toys, Playmates Toys and Playmobil are launching new lines for the holiday season. In fashion and lifestyle, Miraculous collaborated with LPP’s Sinsay brand on a trend-driven apparel collection available from July in 19 countries across Europe and the CEE, and Gnoce unveiled a jewellery collection. In Romania, Profi launched an incentive programme with plush Kwami collectibles, while Ukraine’s Ekosphere has launched healthy juice drinks. In Spain, HarperCollins is launching new publishing that enriches the storytelling universe.

In MENA, Kolossaion Productions launched a live show in June, touring Greece and Cyprus for over eight months, and partner Spacetoon launched a new inflatable activation at the Qatar Toy Festival and Bahrain Summer Toy Festival.

In another exceptional year for the iconic pop culture brand, Pokémon continues to ride high as the world’s largest single property and the No.1 toy property in the UK, according to Circana. This enduring success comes from constant innovation and evolution across its multi-faceted universe, always offering new ways for its huge and hugely diverse global fanbase to connect with the brand when, where and how they wish.

Pokémon’s range of toys, games and collectibles offers something for everyone across diverse lines and price points, from plush and puzzles to trading cards and collectibles. This year’s highlights include a brandnew collaboration with Hasbro on the action-packed Monopoly: Pokémon Edition. The classic board game gets a Pokémon twist as players race to catch wild Pokémon and battle rival trainers to collect Poké Balls, which have replaced Monopoly Money, with fun Pokémon-themed activities if they land on an Adventure or Challenge square.

Master toy partner Jazwares’ award-winning toy line continues to flourish with its plush and articulated characters that are hugely popular. The Battle Spinners lines, launched last year, continue to grow in popularity, along with the latest squeezable Squishmallows, Chancey and Eevee, and the Carry Case Beach Battle Playset. Ravensburger is releasing the Pokémon version of its classic all family-fun Memory Game this autumn, while continuing to invest in a growing puzzle range. The Wand Company is adding more Poké Ball die-cast replicas for collectors to its range, with the Safari Ball, Moon Ball and Level Ball coming soon, and Funko continues to expand its line of Pokémon Pop! figures. The latest launch features a new soft colour variant of Pikachu, giving the fan favourite a unique pastel makeover; Absol, with its signature horn and ominous stance; Ninetales, with its flowing tails and mystical expression and Rowlet, with its distinctive leaf bow tie.

Pokémon continues to offer new expansions for its eternally popular Trading Card Game (TCG), plus new experiences and updates for its hugely popular suite of video games and apps. New for fans is the multi-device puzzle game Pokémon Friends, developed alongside Wonderfy, containing over 1,200 brainteasers for the whole family inspired by Pokémon’s unique world. The eagerly awaited new video game, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, is set in vibrant Lumiose City, and launches worldwide on 16th October on Nintendo Switch/Switch 2.

The excitement will ramp up even further in 2026 as Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary with an abundance of special activity. Highlights include Pokémon Champions, a new game in which trainers can recruit Pokémon to their teams and battle other trainers, plus the hugely anticipated arrival of Lego Pokémon. The new multi-year partnership between The Lego Group and The Pokémon Company International is set to bring the world of Pokémon to life, brick by brick.

With more innovative new product releases, creative collaborations and unmissable events planned for the landmark anniversary, Pokémon looks to remain fresh, relevant and at the forefront of entertainment.

BLE Acamar Films

www.acamarfilms.com |

Meeting Table E153-3

At Acamar Films, the award-winning pre-school series Bing is its sole focus, which allows the company to give the brand and its partners its full attention and strategic support. With trust built over a decade, global relevance across 130+ territories and timeless storytelling at its heart, Bing is a pre-school brand that provides emotional, social and mental tools to help young children get ready for life. Loved by families and embraced by partners, the property continues to grow across content, consumer products and live experiences.

Acamar Film’s key focus for the remainder of 2025 is to continue delivering and expanding its brand campaign ‘Getting ready for life… It’s a Bing thing’. This has already launched in the UK and Italy and is set to extend into further key markets in 2026. The campaign demonstrates how Bing can help as little ones navigate first experiences, understand unfamiliar emotions and master daily routines. For grown-ups, Bing offers a valuable toolkit to support their child’s emotional and social development, encouraging independence, resilience and creativity.

In the year ahead, Acamar Films will continue to build on strong UK and European foundations, with expansion planned across core categories including toys, apparel, publishing and experiential. Internationally, it is targeting strategic growth in the Middle East, Turkey, Latin America and beyond, with the appointment of new agents in key territories. A rich pipeline of new content across its 65 YouTube channels and global broadcast partners will be supported by locally relevant campaigns to ensure Bing continues to resonate with pre-schoolers and parents worldwide.

A major development is the launch of the new Bing toy range from Rainbow Designs, which will hit UK shelves from October 2025, ahead of a wider European and international rollout in 2026. From soft and interactive plush toys to wooden puzzles and activity boards, each toy provides engaging play with developmental benefits, helping children learn and discover. Establishing the new toys at retail is a key step in broadening the consumer products offering and deepening audience engagement.

At this year’s Brand Licensing Europe, Acamar Films will be supporting its UK agent, Rocket Licensing (Stand A205), as it showcases Bing on its stand for the very first time. The Acamar Films team will also be there to meet agents, licensees and retail partners from Europe and further afield.

Larkshead Licensing

www.larksheadlicensing.com admin@larksheadlicensing.com Stand A162

Larkshead Licensing invites BLE visitors to celebrate another year in the world of Tom Gates. Created by Liz Pichon and based on her best-selling books (over 16.5m sold by Scholastic) and the awardwinning TV series from SKY/TG Entertainment, the dynamic doodler and music lover has had a great year.

The Tom Gates Epic Stage Show, produced by Mark Thompson Productions, kicked off 2025 with a 50+ date UK tour. These action-packed live shows bring the illustrations to life, featuring DogZombies, music and mayhem.

Expanding the licensing programme, new deals include Ion8 for drinkware and lunch bags, launching Q4 2025. Based on previous success, Smiffys will launch Tom Gates dress-up for World Book Day 2026. Print-on-demand cake specialist Intercake has renewed its licence for personalised Tom Gates cake toppers, available via Asda kiosks and online.

The 24th book, Pesky Pets and Parties, launches on 9th October 2025, bringing back Tom's popular band DogZombies, a dolphin costume and chaotic pets. Larkshead Licensing will be giving away a signed copy at its stand. In 2026, Scholastic and TG Entertainment will celebrate the 15th anniversary of the first Tom Gates book and the publication of the 25th book in the franchise.

Signed by Larkshead, Sophie Jonas-Hill is an award-winning artist and illustrator whose work is influenced by tattoo art, classic fairy tales, historical etchings and woodcuts. Sophie has recently inked a global deal with Ravensburger, the world-renowned puzzle manufacturer, for her unique Fashionably Late White Rabbit artwork which will launch to the market in early 2026. Larkshead Licensing has enjoyed a bumper year, expanding and diversifying its licensing portfolio. Acclaimed independent children's production company Terrific Television and Freak Productions have been added to its growing stable of licensors.

Terrific Television, the independent children's production company fronted by TV producers Nic Ayling and Driana Jones, has pencilled a deal to extend the reach of its programmes into new licensing categories. Nic and Driana have been involved in television productions such as I Can Cook, Mister Maker, The Makery and Teletubbies.

Larkshead Licensing will also be the global licensing agent for Tiny Wonders, the critically-acclaimed CBeebies series that encourages young children to explore and appreciate the natural world around them. Created by Freak Productions for CBeebies, Tiny Wonders invites pre-schoolers on a visual journey, using macro photography and charming animated characters to reveal the hidden marvels of nature.

With a dynamic and diverse roster of properties, Larkshead looks forward to welcoming visitors onto it stand.

Rubber Road

www.rubberroad.com | sales@rubberroad.com

Stand D155

With Tubbz on the rise and global sales for 2025 set to hit over 5m units, Rubber Road is taking its unique, quirky collectible cosplaying ducks to BLE. The company has ambitious plans for significant growth in 2026 and beyond.

Rubber Road works with the biggest names in global entertainment thanks to partnerships with Universal, Warner Bros, Lionsgate, Paramount and Mojang, to name a few, giving access to some of the best licences in the world of movies, TV shows, gaming and comic books. The key to success is unrivalled and exceptional character detail, making Tubbz some of the most exciting and distinctive collectibles around. With over 400 characters in the collection and new drops every week, there is something to satisfy the appetites of pop culture fans everywhere.

Tubbz began with First Editions aimed at collectors and fans of nostalgic pop culture brands such as Ghostbusters, Back to the Future and Jaws. These were limited editions, so once they were gone, they were gone, giving these larger ducks a FOMO effect. To grow the brand further, more current licences were secured to appeal to a wider fan base such as Minions, Jurassic World, How to Train Your Dragon, Minecraft, DC Comics and Anime. The next phase was to add new Tubbz categories to the First Editions, so there was still something special for collectors, but also making Tubbz accessible to those who missed out and attracting a younger audience.

The Tubbz line-up now includes First Editions, Boxed Editions, Mini Tubbz, XL Tubbz and Tubbz Plushies. The First Editions are a limited run, and each character comes with a display bathtub featuring the franchise logo. First Edition is stamped on base of each duck, and a First Edition sticker is on the packaging. Some First Editions may come back, this time in a stylish box rather than a bathtub. Ideal for pocket money budgets, Mini Tubbz have the same epic detail, just two inches tall. Reserved for those iconic, larger-than-life characters such as Godzilla, Toothless, Balrog and Jaws – Bruce the Shark, XL Tubbz has more licences on the way. Tubbz Plushies are the cuddly versions of popular Tubbz.

Rubber Road urges retailers and potential new licence partners to engage now with Tubbz. To find out more, visit its stand to see the best performing licences for 2025 including Minecraft, How to Train Your Dragon, Jurassic World and Anime. Plus, new characters set to drop in Q4 and Q1 2026 will be revealed.

PMS International

01268 505 050 | jcostimouyia@pmsplc.com | sales@pmsplc.com Stand A231

PMS International is bringing the mischievous world of Elves Behavin’ Badly (EBB) back to the spotlight at Brand Licensing Europe 2025 this October.

Since its launch in 2017, Elves Behavin’ Badly has evolved into one of the most recognisable festive brands, enchanting more than 13m homes to date. Built on the promise of laughter, imagination and a touch of mischief, the elves have become synonymous with Christmas traditions across generations. What began as a fun way to bring festive cheer to families has now expanded into a global success story, with products available in over 40 countries and growing each year. This growth shows no signs of slowing. With increasing numbers of licensees and distribution partners, EBB continues to strengthen its footprint, delighting both retailers and consumers who see the elves as a major part of the Christmas season. New for 2025, EBB has introduced the baby elves who are ready to join the antics of Elfie, Elvie and Rudie. With their cheeky charm and irresistible cuteness, they promise to bring a fresh layer of storytelling to the brand, giving families more opportunities for festive fun. Their arrival expands the creative potential of EBB even further, ensuring that the brand continues to stay relevant and appealing for both long-time fans and new audiences alike.

While EBB has always thrived on strong digital engagement, such as the hugely popular #Pranksmas campaign, which has generated tens of millions of views worldwide, the brand also recognises the importance of live interaction. This year, fans will be able to meet the elves in-person at high-profile consumer events at the Manchester Trafford Centre and Drayton Manor. These activations allow families to step directly into the world of EBB, experiencing firsthand the laughter and mischievous spirit that defines the brand.

These experiential events are designed to build anticipation for the festive season and reinforce the elves’ place at the heart of family celebrations. By balancing digital innovation with real-world connection, EBB continues to craft memorable moments that go far beyond the toy aisle.

The brand’s licensing programme continues to grow at pace, with an expanding product range that goes well beyond the core elf dolls. From apparel and accessories to gifting and home décor, EBB’s licensing partners are finding new and creative ways to bring the elves to life across categories. Each partnership helps extend the story of mischief into everyday festive touchpoints, while ensuring the brand remains accessible and affordable for families everywhere.

As the elves prepare to take centre stage at BLE 2025, it’s clear that the magic and the mischief of Elves Behavin’ Badly is stronger than ever. With the baby elves joining the family, new live activations set to delight audiences and a growing network of partners around the world, PMS International’s flagship festive brand is proving once again that it is far more than a seasonal fad. Instead, EBB has become an enduring global tradition, one that families eagerly anticipate year after year.

Stand A141

In its 80th year, Mattel is bringing its expansive slate of brands and their diverse array of offerings to Brand Licensing Europe 2025 this October. Building on eight decades of cultural impact, Mattel brands are moving boldly into new categories, reaching new audiences and reshaping the way fans engage with play – on screen, in stores, in fashion, in food and in the digital world.

Mattel’s content slate is expanding to build on this momentum. A major motion picture, Masters of the Universe, is set for worldwide theatrical release on 5th June 2026. Another live-action film, Matchbox, is also now in post-production and is slated to hit the big screen in autumn 2026. Other films in development include: a liveaction Hot Wheels film; the first-ever Barbie theatrical animation; a brand-new Monster High live-action movie and a Barney live-action feature. Finally, a Whac-A-Mole feature film is on the way from TriStar Pictures.

In TV, Mattel is releasing more hit animated series on platforms such as Netflix and Nickelodeon, reaching over 190 countries in more than 30 languages. Mattel Television continues to deliver high-performing series with global distribution and strong consumer engagement. In doing so, Mattel is building an ecosystem by aligning content with fashion collaborations, toy innovation and live experiences. Expanding digital experiences on YouTube, Roblox and gaming platforms, meanwhile, are set to extend physical play to the virtual world.

Barbie continues to defy the standard toy lifecycle, connecting meaningfully to culture while nurturing brand love across generations. With 99% global brand awareness, a social footprint of over 23m followers and the most inclusive doll line on the market, Barbie’s influence spans content, fashion, digital experiences and real-world activations.

The future of Barbie is anchored in storytelling innovation, cultural connection and purposeful play. Fresh content for streaming and broadcast audiences will emphasise diversity and friendship, reflecting the brand’s inclusive ethos. Mobilefirst experiences and interactive platforms designed for Gen Alpha will build on the success of the Barbie Dreamhouse Tycoon Roblox game and the Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures app, which have a combined 300m downloads. Launching in Amsterdam, Barbie: The Dream Experience will offer a new format of interactive storytelling, blending history, role-play and visual spectacle to create an allages destination. An extended careers publishing series will deep dive into Barbie’s expansive 250+ career history, spotlighting women in underrepresented fields such as film, engineering and space exploration, inspiring the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Hot Wheels is revving up to become an icon in both automotive and pop culture, thanks to live events such as the Hot Wheels Legends Tour, action sports events and amusement park attractions, as well as partnerships with the world’s hottest consumer brands. Benefitting from record-breaking consumer engagement, new storytelling platforms and unprecedented event expansion, the brand’s momentum is unmatched.

There is a plethora of upcoming experiences for the brand. Racing into homes is a digital Hot Wheels universe with AR integrations, AI-powered toy-to-game experiences and STEM-focused racing kits, positioning play as both immersive and educational. The Hot Wheels Legends Tour continues to outpace itself, particularly across EMEA and Latin America. In 2025, the tour has expanded to a record-breaking 16 countries, with new stops in Benelux, Peru and Turkey cementing the tour’s prestige across continents. Hot Wheels is next in line for a cinematic adaptation, with Jon M. Chu tapped as director for the live-action feature from Mattel Studios, Warner Bros. and Bad Robot. Hot Wheels is transforming into a franchise that connects kids, collectors and competitors across storytelling platforms.

Masters of the Universe is enjoying a global brand resurgence driven by theatrical, fashion and publishing activations. Its upcoming 2026 live-action film is at the heart of the revival. Much like Barbie’s record-breaking 2023 cultural moment, which saw over 165 brand partnerships drive engagement across the Fashion, Beauty, Travel and Lifestyle categories, Masters is set to follow the same multi-sector playbook by blending blockbuster entertainment with a cross-category brand takeover.

Now in post-production, the Masters of the Universe movie is directed by Travis Knight and produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Mattel Films. The stellar cast includes Nicholas Galitzine, Camila Mendes and Idris Elba, with the film promising to bring the world of Eternia to life for a new generation. This bold reimagining combines epic fantasy with modern themes of identity, duty and self-empowerment, positioning Masters as a cinematic tentpole with global appeal.

Masters of the Universe will expand beyond the screen with fashion-first collections, publishing programmes, global brand campaigns, toy lines and streaming content. The revival is a fully immersive, transmedia franchise strategy. With its expansive visual universe, high-profile cast and a marketing plan inspired by one of Mattel’s most successful brand moments, Masters of the Universe is poised to become a premier action-fantasy franchise that blends legacy with limitless creative potential.

To see the licensing potential of these brands and more on Mattel’s stand at BLE, get in touch via the details above to schedule and appointment.

BLE

Planet Rights

www.planetrights.media | rob@planetrights.media

Stand D207

Planet Rights, the London-based rights and licensing agency, will be exhibiting for the first time at BLE this year, with a stellar line up of brands across entertainment, toys and publishing. From iconic Japanese anime to lifestyle brands and original children’s content, the portfolio reflects both global reach and fresh opportunities, including brands not seen in the market before.

As Japan’s first anime superstar and a pioneer of manga culture, Astro Boy, created by artist Osamu Tezuka, continues to inspire fans across generations. In 1963, the animated programme made its debut on TV as the first commercial animated TV programme in Japan. The 30-minute programme was aired weekly, receiving high public and critical acclaim, and led to Japan's first TV animation craze.

Also making waves at BLE will be Talking Tom Heroes: Suddenly Super, a new animated series bringing a thrilling twist to the Talking Tom & Friends universe, coming to BBC iPlayer and CBeebies this year. The series follows Talking Tom and his friends Angela, Ben and Hank as they discover a strange device that grants them amazing powers and makes them Suddenly Super. With core themes of self-discovery, humour and friendship, Talking Tom Heroes: Suddenly Super is full of action and comedy.

Planet Rights will be representing Two Daughters Entertainment’s slate of IP including Moley, a hit 52 x 11’ pre-school TV property that uncovers a world underground. This hero has a brand-new series in development and has recently launched a global partnership with FEE, one of the world’s leading environmental organisations engaging children all over the world. From the same stable comes The Land of Sometimes, an animated musical feature film launching this year. With a cast including Ewan McGregor, Helena Bonham Carter and Mel Brooks, and music by Tim Rice, the film blends original music, fantasy storytelling and cross-generational appeal.

Whatsitsface offers a patented plush toy, teaching children about emotions through play. The award-winning accredited MESH toy can also be adapted for favourite characters, adding a new dimension to the plush category, while creating deeper emotional connection and a fun way for children to express how they are feeling.

Kitchen Disco brings a playful lifestyle brand celebrating a love affair between food and music. Developed by ex-Aardman creative Danny Heffer, the vibrant look, upbeat humour and playful characters combine the perfect ingredients to get any party cooking. Meanwhile, Little Rebels introduces a toy, app and entertainment concept rooted in history’s great trailblazers, designed to engage audiences with stories of change-makers. The brand aims to encourage young people to dare to make a difference and follow their dreams through the power of play.

Studiocanal Kids & Family

www.studiocanal.co.uk info.scuk@studiocanal.com

Stand B182

At BLE 2025, Studiocanal Kids & Family will celebrate Paddington’s global legacy with a bold new look and feel for the much-loved bear. This refreshed visual identity lifts Paddington into the modern day while staying true to his timeless values – kindness, curiosity, humour and charm – that audiences of all ages adore.

Following the worldwide success of Paddington in Peru, developed, produced and distributed by Studiocanal and grossing more than $212m at the global box office, Paddington stands as a true cultural icon.

Studiocanal’s cross-platform strategy, rooted in storytelling, drives creative innovation across collaborations and formats. Recent Gen Z-focused launches with Skinnydip London, Wild Cosmetics and Dr. PawPaw, demonstrate the brand’s evolution and wide appeal to new audiences. From Paddington’s Roblox adventures and Crayola’s Create & Play+ App, his digital world also continues to grow, inviting further generations to connect with his story in exciting ways.

At BLE this year, Studiocanal will spotlight these milestones and share an exclusive reveal of the eagerly anticipated Paddington: The Musical, which opens in London’s West End this November. It will also highlight the growing success of its retail business, in-store and online, bringing highquality collections to fans worldwide.

Backed globally by the Canal+ Group, a global media and entertainment company based in more than 50 countries with near to 27m subscribers worldwide, Studiocanal Kids & Family is shaping Paddington into a global phenomenon. Using its extensive experience and careful curation, Studiocanal will soon be partnering with other significant family brands.

Stand C151

The Talking Tom & Friends brand has grown over the past decade into a global entertainment phenomenon loved by a diverse audience. Known for its blend of humour, relatable characters, engaging storytelling and an expanding range of consumer products, the brand has successfully evolved from mobile gaming into a multi-platform experience. The latest series from the franchise, Talking Tom Heroes: Suddenly Super, is specifically crafted to capture the imaginations of children through exciting superhero adventures and positive messages about teamwork and friendship.

Building upon the hype surrounding the show, Outfit7 is introducing an official Talking Tom Heroes: Suddenly Super toy line, developed in partnership with Spider International Business Development, to bring the adventures into the real world. Italy will be the first market to welcome the toys, with distribution planned through Maggio3 and availability at major retail stores and online platforms. This launch represents a key milestone as Outfit7 strengthens the connection between its video content and physical products. Further expansions are planned for the UK, Portuguese and Spanish markets, extending the toy line’s reach to even more fans.

The series itself began its global rollout in January 2025, premiering on Cartoonito in Italy. Following its success there, it quickly expanded to key markets in the Asia-Pacific region, including Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and South Korea, and later reached audiences in the Baltic states, specifically Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. This autumn, the UK will welcome the show on CBeebies, bringing the heroic adventures of Tom, Angela, Hank, Ben and their friends to an even wider audience. The coordinated launch of the Talking Tom Heroes: Suddenly Super toy range and animated series reflects Outfit7’s commitment to creating a well-rounded entertainment ecosystem, where physical products complement on-screen storytelling and encourage hands-on play that inspires creativity and connection among kids.

Rocket Licensing

020 720 76241 | www.rocketlicensing.com charlie@rocketlicensing.com Stand A205

The European Space Agency (ESA) licensing campaign has already taken off with four engaging and authoritative children’s books that target the space scientists of the future, along with apparel, toys and art that bring space a little closer to Earth. ESA, Europe’s comprehensive space agency, has been dedicated to the peaceful exploration and use of space since 1975.

Now, in its 50th anniversary year, ESA is charting bold new paths: from Earth’s orbit to the Moon, Mars, Jupiter and beyond, while empowering human beings to protect the planet and elevate the future of Europe. All these priorities are set out in Strategy 2040, ESA’s long-term vision for the future of European space activities. It’s a roadmap that will inspire future generations of scientists, engineers and astronauts to follow pioneers and famous space travellers like ESA astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, the record holder for the longest uninterrupted spaceflight by a European astronaut (at 199 days and 16 hours). Samantha, a role model for young explorers, is celebrated as an ESA Barbie doll, an emblem of aspiration and possibility. She is also co-author of The Astronaut Diaries: Journals of Andi Futura Aged 11 ½, a book about the first family in space, thanks to a partnership between ESA and DK, the world’s leading children’s non-fiction publisher. As well as books and dolls, ESA has inspired a Playmobil Mars exploration kit, a Lego International Space Station and Lobster and Lemonade t-shirts and sweatshirts, not to mention extraordinary views of the world from Art Photo Limited based on ESA images taken from space.

With the help of Rocket Licensing, ESA is ready to expand further. The necessary elements are in place, including a style guide and a trend guide highlighting assets like the ESA logo, mission patches and drawings, diagrams and space imagery, as well as of satellites, space stations, launchers and astronauts.

This licensing campaign will support the activities of ESA and raise awareness, as well as meet demand for products that reflect the excitement and mystery of space exploration. ESA is uniquely placed to inspire and keep space close to people everywhere.

Character Licensed Merchandise

John Leisure

01616 526 661 | kay@john-toys.com

John Leisure remains a leading European specialist in the world of balls and outdoor toys. Over this past season, the company has more than doubled its distribution in the UK and Irish market and is enjoying huge success.

The company’s strength lies in its longstanding partnerships with major licensors such as Sanrio, Mattel, Hasbro, Universal, Paramount and Disney, however it is constantly seeking new licensing partnerships - and is set to announce a huge new licence agreement very soon.

Leading John Leisure’s collection are 5” and 9” licensed playballs. These brightly coloured, durable balls are perfect for outdoor play and available in multiple licences, including (but not limited to) Disney and Pixar’s Stitch, Spidey and His Amazing Friends, Gabby’s Dollhouse, Paw Patrol, Peppa Pig, Hot Wheels and Barbie.

Another integral and rapidly growing part of John’s lineup is its 2.5” licensed high-bounce balls, crafted from high-quality polyurethane (PU). These balls are designed to deliver exceptional bounce, making them ideal for energetic play. They feature licences such as Paw Patrol, Peppa Pig, Disney and Marvel, and are available either as a PDQ display unit or on a clip strip.

Gathering a lot of attention and performing extremely well, the brightly coloured John pop-up tents are available in multiple licences, including Stitch, Spidey and Peppa, to name a few. The perfect playground for little adventurers, princesses, explorers and superheroes, no poles are needed, and the tent is up and ready for play in seconds. John’s tent range is enjoying tremendous success and gaining momentum.

Clementoni

020 3206 1397 | www.clementoni.com | clemuk@clementoni.com

Clementoni has added the Metamorphic Art Collection – Stranger Things range to its portfolio – a revolutionary product designed to elevate puzzle play to a whole new aesthetic and sensorial level.

A fusion of art, design, innovation and enthusiasm for a compelling story, the Metamorphic Art Collection – Stranger Things set includes a 520-piece jigsaw puzzle, a frame to be assembled and a multicoloured adhesive LED-light strip. Thanks to a special heptachrome print and RGB Art technology, the completed jigsaw puzzle turns into a picture showing three different images per subject depending on the light projected by the red, blue and green LEDs. Icons from the Stranger Things universe, such as the Demogorgon, the Upside Down and the menacing presence of Vecna, come to life in the dark, offering a real wow-factor.

With images that metamorphose, lights that reveal unseen details and a visual identity designed to astonish and amaze, this innovative collection has been developed by an in-house team of avid fans of the hit Netflix series, which returns for its fifth and final season in November. The project provides an immersive experience developed for all fans, with a particular lean towards the kidult audience.

The Metamorphic Art Collection is just the first of a broader range of products inspired by Stranger Things and designed to delight fans and non-fans alike with an unforgettable and highly engaging experience. Also available is Friends Don’t Lie, a cooperative board game that covers the previous four seasons of the Stranger Things franchise. Players choose from 13 iconic characters to form a team and tackle missions in the Upside Down, experiencing the mysterious and grim atmosphere of the television saga. There’s also a Premium Puzzle collection of 1,000-piece puzzles featuring images of the iconic posters from the series.

Clementoni's journey into the world of Stranger Things began in 2019 as one of the very first Italian brands to collaborate with Netflix, kickstarting its product offering for the kidult market. Since then, the company’s catalogue has been enriched with games and jigsaw puzzles inspired by numerous cult series, cartoons, anime and cinematic masterpieces, redefining the concept of a modern jigsaw puzzle and engaging an increasingly wide audience that encompasses children as well as grown-ups.

Hunter Price

www.hunterprice.co.uk | home@hunterprice.co.uk

Crayola has taken a fresh approach for this year’s back-to-school campaign, with its brand-new collection, Foodie Friends, created by Hunter Price. From 30-page drawing folders and activitypacked craft pads to sticker rolls, sewing kits and mini canvases, every item is bursting with personality. With adorable avocado pals, smiling doughnuts and cheeky French fries and hamburgers, each character has been designed to spark joy and inspire imagination.

Crayola’s partnership with Hunter Price expands the possibilities children in the UK have to creatively express themselves. Offering a customisation element, kids can colour their own pencil cases and sticker sets, adding a personal splash of style to their school supplies. The award-winning, innovative products complement Crayola’s core range and open up new ways to inspire and engage young imaginations.

The Crayola’s Foodie Friends range is gaining attention from retailers and consumers alike, and the Crayola ImagiPals, a surprise ball concept with collectible novelty erasers and stationery, is already an award-winning line. Early feedback to Foodie Friends has been very positive, and Hunter Price says the impactful, playful range is just the start of some exciting developments in its product innovation strategy for Crayola.

Character Licensed Merchandise Spin Master

Spin Master continues to captivate families worldwide with its diverse portfolio of character-led ranges that bring storytelling and imaginative play to life. With strong partnerships across some of the most beloved entertainment franchises, the company is poised for an exciting Q4 2025, featuring a lineup that combines innovation with evergreen favourites.

Leading the way is Jurassic World Primal Hatch. This interactive toy lets kids hatch and train their very own dinosaur. As the T-Rex emerges, children can decide whether it grows into a loyal companion or a fierce predator. With articulated features, more than 100 sounds, reactions and interactive play modes, Primal Hatch delivers hours of entertainment for Jurassic World fans who want to bring the prehistoric adventure home.

Also launching in the festive season is the How to Train Your Dragon: Tame & Train Interactive Toothless. With over 60 sounds and interactions, the beloved dragon responds to touch and movement as kids work to earn its trust – from tracking and reacting to their actions to forming a bond with their dragon. Young fans can step into the role of dragon rider and recreate magical moments from the franchise.

Gabby’s Meow-mazing Dollhouse, inspired by Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie, stands over 60cm tall. This hero play set offers 360-degree play across seven themed rooms and play areas. Kids can use the Cat-a-vator and send deliveries down the delivery tower. Complete with a movie-styled Gabby figure in her signature cat-ears hairband, the set encourages endless adventures, enhanced by a QR code that unlocks a digital surprise in the Gabby’s Dollhouse app.

Paw Patrol is back with an action-packed new theme: Fire Rescue. The Rapid Reload Fire Truck is a 50.8cm-long fire engine loaded with lights, sound effects, a movable ladder and a built-in launcher that fires water projectiles. With space for Marshall in his fire rescue gear, a mini rescue vehicle and multiple interactive features, the Fire Truck ensures kids can jump straight into heroic missions, time and time again.

Rounding out the line-up is the expansion of Bitzee, the innovative digital pet experience that children can touch, interact with and nurture. New licensed editions – Bitzee Harry Potter and Bitzee Jurassic World – bring fan-favourite worlds into the palm of kids’ hands. Whether it’s hatching magical creatures from the Wizarding World or raising prehistoric companions, Bitzee continues to redefine interactive play while broadening its appeal to collectors and fans of all ages.

With innovation at its core and some of the biggest character licences in the world, Spin Master’s Q4 portfolio is perfectly positioned to inspire collectability and play for children everywhere.

Character Licensed Merchandise

Flair

GP

0208 643 0320 | enquiries@flairgp.uk

Flair GP has unveiled a brand-new range of plush toys, further enhancing its evergrowing portfolio within the UK. At the heart of this launch is Hello Kitty, a timeless icon from Sanrio. This new plush collection comes to the UK through PlaybyPlay, the plush toy division of the Famosa/Giochi Preziosi Group. As PlaybyPlay continues to extend its international footprint, the introduction of this Hello Kitty plush line represents a key step forward in offering UK consumers high-quality, trend-driven products that resonate across generations. The collection is carefully designed to bring both nostalgia and innovation, marrying beloved characters with thoughtful craftsmanship.

Crafted from ultra-soft polyester fibres, each plush toy in the range offers a comforting tactile experience, making them ideal for bedtime snuggles, travel companions, or even as cosy décor for desks and shelves. Reinforced stitching and premium fill materials ensure long-lasting quality, allowing for safe and enduring play across all age groups. Among the standout releases is a unique twist on the traditional plush format: the Macedonia Scented Hello Kitty range. These 12cm plush companions combine visual charm with a soft fragrance inspired by the scents of Macedonia. Whether perched on a bookshelf, clipped to a backpack or resting on a car dashboard, these compact scented plush are a treat for both the eyes and the senses.

The new plush collection also features familiar faces such as My Melody, Kuromi and Keroppi, each brought to life with signature details and luxurious plush fabrics. Fans of Kuromi will enjoy Flair GP’s range of edgy plush toys that highlight her gothic-lolita style. Available in 16cm, 22cm and 30cm sizes, these plush versions of the mischievous Kuromi are perfect for display, cuddling or collecting.

The collection also embraces nature-inspired themes with the Hello Kitty Plants series. These 20cm plant-themed plush fuse cuteness with natural charm, offering an ideal gift for fans who love the botanical aesthetic. In addition, the Hello Kitty Fruit collection adds a splash of colour and character. Featuring plush designs themed around watermelon, strawberry, lemon and orange, the fruity Hello Kitty plush are available in three sizes – 16cm, 22cm and 32cm.

Robosen Robotics, a leader in advanced consumer robotics, has announced the lineup of its highly anticipated Disney and Pixar inspired Mini Robots, blending beloved storytelling with cutting-edge robotics. The brand-new collection brings iconic Disney and Pixar characters to life just in time for holiday shopping, including fan-favourites from Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story and Wall-E. The new lineup marks the debut of the world’s first smart toy platform, offering high-precision robotics, lifelike movements and voices and endless opportunities for creativity through programming and downloadable content.

Each Robosen Mini Robot is crafted with high-precision engineering, enabling expressive gestures and authentic sounds that capture the personality of every character. Designed for both play and programming, the Mini Robots connect to computers, allowing users to programme custom movements, download new content and unlock unlimited creativity. The collection is designed to captivate parents of kids aged 4-10 looking for holiday gifts; Toy Story fans celebrating 30 years of adventures with Woody, Buzz and friends; WALL-E fans reliving the heartwarming story of WALL-E and Eve; and tech enthusiasts who love exploring robotics and programmable play.

Designed like a cartridge-based game console, this innovative system brings toys to life. By integrating servo motors, circuit boards, batteries, speakers, connectivity and software into a central base, and connecting through standardised interfaces with encryption chips, the base unlocks advanced software capabilities for all IP toys. The first-generation offline base features two modes: Playback Mode, where users can play the robot’s built-in audio and action programmes with the press of a button; and Programming Mode, allowing users to fully customise actions and download shared content through the Robosen Studio software.

The full collection, including the Disney and Pixar Toy Story 30th Anniversary Collectors Set and the Disney and Pixar WALL-E Collectors Set, will be available at retail from November 2025, ahead of Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Christmas.

The range will be distributed in the UK by Wind Designs.

Character Licensed Merchandise

Blues Group

07764 223 068 | christina.cockill@bluesgroup.co.uk

Blues Group is entering Q4 2025 with a sharp focus on character dress-up, bringing two much-loved properties to life through innovative new ranges. With Bullseye preparing for its highly anticipated TV revival and The Traitors firmly established as one of the most talked-about formats on British screens, both brands present powerful opportunities for the party and dress-up market.

Few programmes have the cross-generational recognition of Bullseye. The darts-based game show has entertained audiences since the 1980s and is set to capture fresh attention with its upcoming relaunch. To support the return of this iconic format, Blues Group has developed a dedicated range of Bullseye dress-up products that celebrate its best-loved imagery and humour. The collection includes a ride-on Bully costume, allowing fans to literally piggyback the show’s legendary mascot; a classic darts shirt, instantly recognisable and supplied with a character Bully head and oversized gloves; a dartboard tabard, complete with Velcro balls; and a child’s character onesie. Each piece balances playfulness with quality, making the range accessible for both casual partygoers and committed fans. Retailers can expect strong consumer appeal across multiple age groups, particularly as the new Bullseye series is set to reignite nostalgia while introducing the brand to younger viewers.

If Bullseye represents classic British television at its most nostalgic, The Traitors showcases the power of a modern format. The psychological reality show has become a global phenomenon, with the UK version consistently drawing huge audiences. This winter, anticipation is especially high for the launch of Celebrity Traitors UK, a spin-off guaranteed to create headlines and social media buzz. Blues Group is supporting the franchise with a new unisex Traitors cloak. Sleek, dramatic and instantly recognisable, the cloak captures the atmosphere of secrecy and suspense that defines the show. Designed to fit a wide range of body types, it works equally well for themed parties, fan events, or as a standout piece for content creators looking to channel the show’s energy.

Both Bullseye and The Traitors highlight the growing role of licensed dress-up as more than simple fancy dress. These products connect consumers to experiences, from nostalgic quiz show humour to the intrigue of a psychological game. For retailers, this means positioning licensed dress-up not only as partywear but as a form of fan engagement, social media content and even collectible memorabilia.

As Blues Group continues to expand its licensed portfolio, the Bullseye and Traitors ranges underline the company’s approach: high-quality, UK-focused design that captures the essence of beloved entertainment brands. With Bullseye’s relaunch and the buzz around Celebrity Traitors UK, both properties are set to generate real excitement this season, giving retailers a timely opportunity to deliver products that consumers will recognise, share and enjoy.

Topps 01908 800 100 | www.topps.com

Topps has unveiled the highly anticipated new edition of the popular Match Attax UCC Collection for the 25/26 season for collectors and football fans across the globe. The brand-new collection takes design and collectability to the next level, featuring bold new aesthetics, ultra-rare chase inserts, retail exclusives and innovative card materials that reflect both the passion of the players and the energy of the collecting community.

Unmissable Relic and Autograph cards return to Match Attax, with Player-Worn Jerseys and UCL Medal Winner relics from stars including Toni Kroos and Wesley Sneijder forming key highlights of the set. In addition, 5,000 genuine player autograph cards will be made available globally, alongside a first-ever fan-designed card, depicting Phil Foden’s ‘point to the sky’ celebration.

Collector excitement is set to peak with the return of 100 Club Cards, Wordlies Limited Edition Cards, Infinity Exclusives and the Red Hot & Cold series featuring two of football’s brightest young talents: Lamine Yamal and Cole Palmer. Collectors can also chase a Lethal Chrome Combo Autograph Variation dual card starring both Neymar Jr. and Ronaldinho - with only five versions available to chase worldwide.

The Chrome Match Attax Hall of Fame subset also adds another chase element, dropping just once in every 50 packs. Fans have been invited to vote for the next Hall of Fame inductee, with candidates including Steven Gerrard, Ronaldinho and Rio Ferdinand. The winner will be honoured with a special card featuring a unique fan-awarded badge.

The 25/26 Match Attax UCC Collection will be available in a wide range of formats, designed to cater to both seasoned collectors and new fans joining the hobby. Retail-exclusive Mega Multipacks and themed tins will also roll out across key retailers in due course.

The Match Attax UCC Collection 25/26 is now available at Topps.com and select retailers nationwide.

Character Licensed Merchandise

UNDEREMBARGO

Bladez Toyz

www.bladeztoyz.co.uk | charlotte@bladeztoyz.co.uk

Following the success of A Minecraft Movie earlier this year, Bladez Toyz is bringing new products to the popular Minecraft Make Your Own Characters range in 2026. Leading the way is the viral sensation that is Chicken Jockey. This buildable character kit is the latest addition to the bestselling Maker Kitz range and is the ultimate display piece for fans of the game and movie. Made from sustainable materials, these easy-to-assemble kits require no glue or scissors and are suitable for children aged six years and above.

Also joining the Maker Kitz range will be the Wolf Training Pack and the life-sized Axolotl. These new sets expand the current lineup, which already includes the iconic Steve, Creeper and Alex, meaning fans can reenact more of their favourite scenes from the movie or fend off a Zombie Attack.

Rounding out the range for spring/summer 2026, Bladez Toyz will launch the Make Your Own Torch Maker Kitz. This iconic torch comes with LED lights so that it really glows. The pop-out parts are easy to slot together, and once complete, the torch can be hung on the wall, making it the perfect creative project for fans of the gaming licence. There’s also a triple pack to create a real statement.

In addition to expanding the offering within its current licensed ranges, Bladez Toyz is also pleased to announce a brand-new licensing partnership with Blue Zoo, adding the popular Blocks Universe brands to its growing arts and crafts portfolio.

The beloved characters from Numberblocks, Alphablocks, Wonderblocks and Colourblocks will be brought to life with a fun and educational range of Arts and Crafts products. This new range will include the best-selling Sticker Activity Sets and Bumper Activity Sets in playful and vibrant designs, as well as new additions such as the Mega Marker Sets and Colouring Tables, perfect for young fans of the show. Pre-schoolers will also be able to colour and squish with the new Colour-In Inflatables, a creative and tactile product perfect for reinforcing learning concepts such as vowels and number bonds. With the Blocks Universe brands trusted by parents and educational professionals alike, these sets will provide children with the chance to further their development through a powerful blend of play and learning.

Character Licensed Merchandise DKB Toys

and Distribution

07813 725 480 | www.dkbtoys.com james.luff@dkbtoys.com

Monogram Collectables bag clip range appeals to toy fans and collectors alike, offering ultra-cute chibi renditions of beloved characters from across pop culture. These pocket-sized delights are ideal for fans who can showcase their passion in a fun, accessible way. The formula is simple: instantly recognisable characters designed in a super-adorable style and packaged in mystery blind bags at an affordable price point.

This year, Monogram has expanded the range further, leaning into the evergrowing popularity of anime. The Crunchyroll collection has been a standout success, featuring characters from some of the biggest titles in Japanese animation. The collection includes favourites from Chainsaw Man, Spy x Family, Jujutsu Kaisen, Sailor Moon and the cultural juggernaut that is Demon Slayer. With breathtaking visuals, heartfelt storytelling and action-packed battles, Demon Slayer continues to dominate the anime landscape. The latest blockbuster film has taken the world by storm, driving even more excitement for the property, and Monogram has capitalised on this momentum, with fresh waves of Demon Slayer clips introduced this quarter to meet surging demand.

Stranger Things is returning for its highly anticipated fifth and final season this Christmas and New Year. The show’s nostalgic 1980s setting and iconic characters have made it a multi-generational hit, and its swan-song season represents a massive opportunity for retailers and collectors alike. Monogram is rising to the occasion with the launch of Wave 5 of its Stranger Things bag clips, perfectly timed to ride the wave of global attention. Plush and magnets are also joining the collection, giving fans even more ways to celebrate their love for the series.

Thumbs Up’s brand-new Care Bears Digital Pets offer pocket-sized interactive toys blending retro appeal with modern flair, giving kids and collectors the chance to care for Care Bears in a colourful pixel world. Players can feed, nurture and play mini games with their virtual companion, all brought to life with the vibrant Unlock the Magic design. The Care Bears brand has enjoyed a remarkable revival, reconnecting with long-time fans while charming a new generation with its timeless messages of sharing, joy and positivity. The digital pet perfectly captures that ethos, ideal for spreading smiles and a touch of retro charm.

From anime heroes to Netflix icons, and from cuddly Care Bears to pixelated pals, 2025 is shaping up to be another exciting year for DKB Toys’ collectibles that connect fans to the characters and stories they love most.

Blokees

07585 400 586 | www.blokees.com | sales@theleftfieldgroup.com

Blokees firmly believes in the power of building to inspire unlimited creativity through powerful licences and brands, such as Hasbro, Disney, Pokémon, Transformers, Hello Kitty, Minions and Naruto, with a major emphasis on collectability.

Blokees specialises in creating highly detailed, licensed, fully articulated, construction led, ‘snap-fix’, character assembly toys with different sizes suitable for all age groups. With its products ranging from £2.99 to £39.99, the supplier offers very affordable pricing and great value for money, satisfying both the kidult, toy and collector markets.

The Blokees Transformers range offers five different collectible versions; Defender Version at 5.5cm, Galaxy Version at 10cm, Shining Version at 10cm with light feature, Classic Class at 13cm with light up eyes and chest and Action Edition at 18cm comprising a magnetic light up feature and around 200 pieces to construct. Each version has regular wave introductions to keep the collectability high and maintain newness on shelf to deliver strong retail sales.

Blokees new pre-school segment creates simpler characters with larger parts for smaller hands. The first ranges, Sesame Street and Minions, are aimed at preschoolers aged three and up, and cement Blokees’ belief that building is for everyone. Sesame Street is pure nostalgic indulgence with iconic characters, Elmo, Cookie Monster, Big Bird and Abby. Soon to join them are Oscar, Bert, Ernie and Count von Count featuring the new muppetry feature. The Minions Jelly Factory series launched earlier this year featuring Bob, Kevin, Otto and Stuart and the Minions Mokoo series features King Bob, Knight Dave, Caveman Kevin, Soldier Stuart, Golf Tim and Maid Phil. Children should also look out for the new Celebrations Party and Crocodile Sofa.

New anime licences Naruto, Miku and Evangelion will launch soon with more licences to be announced. Consumers can expect more Blokees product releases throughout the rest of this year, as the company continues to build brands and provide strong sales for retailers.

Character Licensed Merchandise Edx Education

www.edxeducation.com

mia@edxeducation.com

Edx Education has unveiled its brand-new licensed collection inspired by Eric Carle’s timeless classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Launching in Q4 2025, this vibrant range has been created with The World of Eric Carle, which is managed in the UK by Penguin Ventures, through the worldwide agent, The Joester Loria Group. The collection combines the magic of storytelling with the power of play-based learning, creating hands-on educational experiences that children and caregivers will love.

The new The Very Hungry Caterpillar range launches with four products designed for children aged 18 months+. Each toy encourages creativity, critical thinking and joyful learning, perfect for gift-giving, family playtime, or classroom activities.

Forming part of the offering is The Very Hungry Caterpillar My First Stamp Art. Designed for little hands and big imaginations, these rainbow inkpads are non-toxic, washable and perfectly safe for young creators. The included activity book features projects such as stamping, finger painting and storytelling prompts that build creativity, fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Older children and adults can also enjoy the tactile experience of stamping, using the inkpads to craft personalised cards, decorations, or scrapbook pages. This set promotes meaningful family bonding by blending art, literacy and Eric Carle’s love of nature into every activity.

Edx Education’s best-selling Rainbow Pebbles take on a new look in this special licensed edition. The smooth, stackable pebbles now feature the iconic colours and illustrations from the story, encouraging open-ended play, pattern-making and early STEAM exploration. Children can balance, build and sort while strengthening problem-solving skills, creativity, and hand-eye coordination. The set is an ideal resource for both playrooms and classrooms, and a keepsake for fans of the book.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar My First Construction Cubes are an essential tool for early years learning, reimagined with playful caterpillar patterns and colours. Children can connect, build and create 2D and 3D shapes while learning concepts such as measurement, patterns and sequencing. Loved globally as a learning aid, Construction Cubes are now even more engaging, with the addition of character recognition, storytelling prompts and opportunities for imaginative play.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar My First String Art is an engaging activity set that brings Eric Carle’s iconic story to life through construction, STEAM learning and artistic exploration. The Very Hungry Caterpillar My First String Art kit includes colourful, sturdy pegboards, vibrant strings and themed activity cards featuring The Very Hungry Caterpillar and its enchanting world. Young children can practise threading strings to create charming patterns, while older children and adults enjoy experimenting with intricate designs and imaginative storytelling. This hands-on activity nurtures fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and creative thinking while introducing foundational STEAM concepts such as geometry and spatial awareness. Themed activity cards offer both step-by-step guidance and open-ended challenges, fostering confidence and creativity through play.

Available from Q4 2025, this collection offers ideal gifting opportunities during the holiday season and beyond.

Casdon

01253 766 411 | www.casdon.com uk@casdon.com

Casdon, renowned for creating miniature versions of household favourites that captivate children and adults alike through imaginative play, has expanded its licensed portfolio this year with two new partners: Heinz and Build-A-Bear Workshop.

Staying true to its ‘live playfully’ ethos, Casdon’s new Heinz collection brings everyday food items into the world of role-play. Designed for children aged two and above, the range includes six engaging toys such as the American Diner Set, Fish & Chips Takeaway Set, All-Day Breakfast Set and the Beanz and Hoops Make and Play Set. Innovative features like flip-n-dip sauce pots and the signature Heinz Tomato Ketchup bottle with a surprise ‘squirty’ sauce offer hands-on fun while encouraging motor skills, social development and creativity. Designed in close partnership with Heinz, the toys mimic recognisable products to add authenticity to play kitchens and inspire early meal prep skills. Breaking into the plush category for the first time, Casdon is bringing the magic of the Build-A-Bear Workshop in-store experience into homes with its new Build-A-Bear Workshop Stuffing Station, designed for children aged three and over. The innovative set comes complete with two bears, bags of stuffing, outfits, hearts and birth certificates. Children can attach a bear to the nozzle, push the handle and watch their bear fill up, allowing an immersive play experience that develops coordination and fine motor skills.

The Stuffing Station, showcased at this year’s London Toy Fair, was recognised as one of the British Toy & Hobby Association’s (BTHA) 30 Hero Toys, selected by a panel of industry experts. The Build-A-Bear range also includes a Shop & Checkout Set, Furtastic Bear & Outfit packs, and a Pawfect Adventure Bear Carrier, expanding imaginative role-play at home. Like the Heinz range, the Build-A-Bear collection launched this summer, supported by PR, influencer partnerships, social media and marketing activity.

Together, these new licensed ranges reinforce Casdon’s commitment to creating engaging, authentic role-play experiences that encourage creativity, skill development and fun for children.

Character Licensed Merchandise

Funko

www.funko.com | newtradeenquiries.emea@funko.com

Funko regularly collaborates with licensing partners to produce a wide range of releases celebrating a vast array of fandoms. From Funko’s iconic Pop! vinyl figures, to the miniature world of Bitty Pop!, as well as the surprise of Mystery Minis and exclusive Loungefly bags accessories, the brand has significant releases in the pipeline for Q4 this year, as well as early 2026.

Funko will welcome Universal’s Wicked: For Good film with an all-new collection of Pop! figures featuring Elphaba, Glinda and other fan-favourite characters reimagined in Funko’s signature Pop! style. The line captures the magic, friendship and rivalry at the heart of Wicked. Alongside the new figures, which are set to be released later this year, Loungefly will debut a whimsical collection of bags and accessories, poised to enchant theatre enthusiasts and collectors alike and bridge the worlds of Broadway and cinema through Funko’s artistry.

Also set to captivate collectors is the upcoming Zootopia 2 Pop! collection, celebrating the return of Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde and a host of new and familiar faces from Disney’s beloved animated universe. With vibrant figures that capture the adventure of the sequel, this line promises to delight fans of the film.

Another major highlight from Funko’s upcoming releases is the forthcoming Stranger Things Pop! collection, coinciding with the globally anticipated final chapter of Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things. Featuring updated Pop! figures of Eleven, Mike, Dustin and Lucas, as well as wider characters, alongside a few surprises straight from the Upside Down, this release captures the nostalgia and supernatural intrigue that have made the show a cultural phenomenon.

Funko’s commitment to honouring global sports fandoms will also continue to evolve this year after recently expanding Pop! Football line-ups with Manchester City FC icon Erling Haaland. The refreshed Pop! sees formidable striker, Erling, in the legendary sky-blue kit whilst posed in his iconic yoga goal celebration. The all-new Funko Pop! Lamine Yamal, in partnership with FC Barcelona, also joined the Pop! football series earlier this year, targeting both the football community and collectors. Funko has even more football and wider sports-inspired releases to come, as the brand continues to spotlight athletes and teams that define global sporting culture.

Anime will remain a key category for Funko this year and 2026, with releases lined up to celebrate fandoms across One Piece, Chainsaw Man, Attack on Titan and CrunchyRoll. These Pop! figures are designed to capture the iconic looks that define each series, giving the anime community new ways to showcase their passion. Loungefly will also continue to complement anime storytelling through accessories that allow fans to wear their favourite characters and series in bold, fashion-forward ways.

Collectors can look forward to even more surprises and exclusive reveals in 2025, as well as early next year, all of which support Funko’s unmatched ability to turn pop culture moments into collectible items.

Heathside

Heathside Trading has announced various new licensing deals for its own manufacturing and for distribution globally, including an agreement with CultureFly as the exclusive distribution partner for all CultureFly pop culture and entertainment products for the UK and Europe.

CultureFly currently services most retailers in the US with fastmoving, innovative and trend-based products which include licensed lines from brands such as Disney, Paramount, Universal and Warner Brothers. With many lines ready to go and more to come as agreements are expanded in due course, this distribution agreement will bring a wealth of new and exciting products to the UK and Europe.

An expansive range of products will be on show at the 2026 Toy Fairs, including blind boxes, plush, novelty collectibles, figures and more. This partnership will foster new concepts being introduced to the European market that are predicted to cause buzz with fans and collectors alike throughout the continent.

The first range on show for 2026 will be samples for the launch of the global merchandising programme for Dandy’s World. The range will include plush and toys/impulse, and Heathside will be presenting the range in the new year at both the London and Nuremberg toy fairs.

Heathside has also announced a distribution partnership with Kaleidos Creative for Europe. Kaleidos Creative is an artist-led, people-first company that believes in ‘Seeing Things Differently’. Since launching in February 2024, the team of experienced artists has created fan favourite collectible toys and blind boxes, including Tiny Shiny Hineys, Capkins, Catscans, Moth Fairies, Odds N Sods, Cosmo, Dark City Kitty, Kappa Ramen, Wind Magic Tarot and much more.

Character Licensed Merchandise

Hornby (Scalextric)

01843 233 500 | www.uk.scalextric.com sales@hornby.com

Scalextric continues to strengthen its licensing portfolio with the launch of Supercar Showdown, a new set that brings some of the world’s most desirable cars to the slot track. The set includes two officially licensed Lamborghini Revuelto models, with Scalextric working closely to capture the cars’ distinctive design and detail in miniature. From the trademark lines to the authentic colours, each model reflects the real vehicle’s look and feel. Supercar Showdown features five different track layout options, offering variety for each race session, while speed-limiter controllers make it accessible for younger players without reducing the challenge for more experienced racers. The set reflects Scalextric’s longstanding ability to balance playability and authenticity - a key reason the brand continues to have broad appeal.

By securing licensing agreements with automotive leaders like Lamborghini, Scalextric continues to connect with enthusiasts and new audiences. For collectors, the Revuelto models provide a chance to add a 1:32 scale version of a notable supercar to their lineup. For families and fans, Supercar Showdown offers an engaging way to enjoy performance car racing at home.

With licensing playing an increasingly important role in the toy and hobby sector, Scalextric demonstrates how partnerships with premium brands can add relevance and authenticity to a classic product range.

Deddy Bears is starting to turn heads across the pond. Following the brand’s growing popularity in the US, with licensing deals that include backpacks by Accessory Innovations, sticker books by Thunder Bay Press and candy and energy drinks by Boston America, Deddy Bears is now setting its sights firmly on the United Kingdom.

Created to capture the imagination of kids, teens and collectors alike who crave something a little offbeat, Deddy Bears blends traditional plush toy charm with an alternative twist. Each bear in the lineup boasts its own quirky backstory, giving fans not just a toy, but a character to connect with. That balance of creepy-cute has proven irresistible, allowing the brand to carve out a distinctive niche in the crowded collectibles space.

The brand’s growing fanbase and success stateside are strong indicators of untapped potential in the UK market. Early buzz from UK fans has already begun, with organic traction on social media where the bears’ distinct aesthetic and tonguein-cheek humour resonate strongly. Proof of concept has also come through retail: exclusive Deddy Bear jumpers created with HMV became instant fan favourites and remain one of the most requested items in the brand’s catalogue. This success demonstrates that the UK audience is ready to embrace Deddy Bears not just as a collectible, but as a lifestyle brand spanning fashion, publishing, gifting and more. The cult appeal of Deddy Bears aligns perfectly with wider pop culture trends, from Halloween styling becoming year-round mainstream, to the growing popularity of dark yet playful fashion. Consumers are leaning into products that stand out and allow them to express individuality. Licensing opportunities for Deddy Bears in the UK range from apparel, publishing and stationery to gaming, home décor and beyond. With a built-in fanbase and eye-catching look, the brand provides a ready-made platform for partners looking to engage both mass and niche audiences.

Innov8 Creative Academy is also home to the Kreepy Collectibles range, a collection of brands that push the boundaries of traditional toys and character design. Titles include Limbz, a quirky line of fully posable, eerily cute characters. Gothic Girlz is a collection of Gothic, kawaii and cute all in one collectible girls that contain a scratch to reveal astrology card. Meanwhile, Axe-alotls, the mischievous, battle-ready amphibians that wield deadly axes, bring fresh, unconventional energy to collectibles. Each property offers licensing potential across multiple categories and shares the same DNA: playful, edgy and designed to capture the imaginations of fans who want something different. With strong momentum in the US, proven retail success in the UK and a diverse pipeline of brands under the

a major impact in the UK licensing landscape. For retailers, distributors and partners looking to tap

ready to deliver.

Kreepy Collectibles umbrella, Innov8 Creative Academy is positioned to make

into the next wave of cult-favourite collectibles, Deddy Bears and its kreepy companions are

INNOVATIVE FAN-FAVOURITE

GIFTS AND LICENSED COLLECTIBLES

Character Licensed Merchandise Just Play

www.justplayproducts.com uksales@justplayproducts.com

As master toy licensee for Disney Stitch, Just Play’s new lines include Disney Ultimate Stitch, the interactive feature plush with over 100 sounds and motion combinations. Kids can tap or press Stitch’s nose, tongue, belly, or hand for hilarious antics and sayings in his Tantalog language. He giggles, blows kisses, dances and more. Also new this season is the Disney Stitch Talking Mask. When kids put the mask on, Stitch comes to life with 25 phrases and sounds.

In addition, the Stitch Movie Time Blind Boxes capture iconic movie moments and Disney Stitch Squish-A-Stitch Blind Figure Capsules bring fans stylised, glittery renderings of Stitch, as well as six Disney Stitch Swirl-a-Stitch Clip-On Figures to discover. Disney Stitch Many Moods Stitch Plush remains a smash-hit, with his light-up, animated LCD eyes.

The portfolio is also home to the FurReal collection, licensed from Hasbro. This interactive tech toy range brings plush animal friends to life. The new pals this season are FurReal Coco, FurReal Maggie and the FurReal Handfuls. Coco the Tumbling Panda has 40+ sounds and reactions. Meanwhile, FurReal Maggie the Feed & Follow Cow walks to follow her bottle, making realistic animal sounds. FurReal Handfuls allows kids to warm up, calm down and make friends with mini pets that have 50+ sound and movement combinations.

Demand for all things Disney Doorables continues with regular releases of new, captivating experiences. The newest theme for the season is Disney Doorables Let’s Party, with favourite Disney characters dressed in six party themes. Kids can discover Minnie Mouse ready for the Skate Party, the Genie from Aladdin dressed for a Pool Party and more. There are 60 figures to find, including six special editions with features like a colour change or bobblehead. Disney Doorables Costume Cuties offers a new trend item that allows kids to dress up the characters and customise their wardrobe with stickers.

Disney Duckalooz are super-cute, stylised ducks based on characters from Disney and Pixar stories, while Warner Bros. DC Duckalooz are inspired by DC Superheroes stories. These classic toys make great display items.

Tiny Nightmares is a new IP that will delight fans of the horror genre. The three-inch figures depict horror movie characters from both classic and modern films from Universal and Warner Bros. Each blind box contains a highly detailed figurine with eyes that hold detailed reflections of their victim. The first wave of six characters includes Halloween’s Michael Myers, M3gan and Chucky.

Families with pre-schoolers can bring on-screen magic into the playroom, with toys based on Disney Junior Minnie Mouse, Disney Junior SuperKitties and Sesame Street. Sesame Street Cookie Monster Basic Feature Plush brings joy with laughter, shaking and munching sounds, all activated at the press of his belly. The Disney Junior SuperKitties Purr ‘N’ Play Playset unfolds to reveal 20” of colourful play space, and it comes with figures and accessories. For Disney Junior Minnie Mouse fans, the all-new Pet Hotel Playset provides the ultimate luxury destination for pets.

Curious Universe

01225 614 310 | www.curiousuniverse.co.uk sales@curiousuniverse.co.uk

The Curious Universe portfolio includes a host of creative licensed lines, including those inspired by the iconic, collectible Squishmallows brand and the beloved pre-school property, Paw Patrol.

The top-selling rock painting format is paired with the best-selling Squishmallows brand for a new activity kit: Squishmallows Rock Painting. Fans of the brand can use this activity pack to create art. With four river stones, paints, stencil sheets, paintbrushes and a design book, this kit will help children perfect and collect adorable Squishmallows rocks to treasure or share.

Squish fans can squad up and get creative with the Squishmallows Cam and Patty Plush Colouring Journals. Each journal comes with a squishable plush cover that’s super soft. With writing prompts featuring beloved Squishmallows characters – Cam, Patty and many more – as well as colouring pages of favourite Mallows and activity pages where fans can add their own designs and doodles, these journals are perfect for taking Squishmallows out and about and getting arty on the go.

With Curious Universe’s Paw Patrol Fun Box offering: Colour Your Own Pup-Tastic T-Shirt, little ones can design their own rescue-ready T-shirt. The kit includes a cotton T-shirt printed with the Paw Patrol characters, ready to be coloured and decorated using the 10 washable pens provided. Once designed and worn, the top can be washed to repeat the process. The set comes with a colouring book full of action-packed scenes to enjoy.

The Paw Patrol fun continues with the Paw Patrol Magic Water Beads set. Children can stick, spray and create bead art designs inspired by their favourite pups. The set comes with everything needed to get started on cool designs.

A feature-rich, buildable kit with app control and codable interactivity

Character Licensed Merchandise

Posh Paws

01268 567 317

www.poshpawsinternational.co.uk sales@poshpawsinternational.co.uk

In 2025, Posh Paws has seen the big-screen success of blockbuster movies How to Train Your Dragon and Jurassic World Rebirth convert into strong sales for its new plush ranges that include the 7” Toothless Dragon Expressions and 10” Aquilops dinosaur plush, with more to come this autumn.

With the release of the new Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie on 16th October, Posh Paws has unveiled new plush toys for characters that will be making their big screen debuts and has also refreshed some of its best-selling lines. The new character releases include a 10” Cookie Bobby, Chumsley and beautiful Mermaid Gabby plush that will be seen for the first time in the new movie. Refreshed designs for leading characters Cakey Cat, Kitty Fairy and Pandy Paws offer retailers something new for their Gabby’s range which children will want to add to their collections. At lower price-points, the 7” plush assortments are perfect for under £10 pick-ups at till-points.

The sequel to last year’s global blockbuster movie phenomenon, Wicked: For Good, will be flying into cinemas on 21st November, and Posh Paws has a magical set of 10” plush dolls that kids can cuddle up and sing along with when they watch the movie. Available to order now are two 10” Wicked plush dolls that include Elphaba Thropp dressed in her purple dress, black pointed hat and cape, with her green face and the elegant Glinda in a beautiful pink dress and sparkly tiara on top of her golden hair. Arriving in time for the movie’s release and with the growth of fashion-led plush products, Posh Paws is releasing a new assortment of six double-sided plush bag clip charms featuring colourful designs that will stand out on whatever fans want to accessorise. As seen with the first movie, the magic of Wicked entertained fans just as much when it was released to buy and rent, so these plush products are expected to be in high demand throughout Q4 and Q1 2026.

Posh Paws’ licensed offering of Bullseye, that is returning to ITV this Christmas; Wednesday, with the success of season 2 on Netflix and the Swizzels Love Hearts plush gifting range, are all set to be high on consumer purchases in this golden quarter, appealing to the expanding kidult sector. Anime/Manga continues to be a category in growth and with collections from One Piece, Chainsaw Man and Demon Slayer, Posh Paws has product that appeal to all ages from tween, teen and adult.

The company’s leading own-brand ranges, Kawaii Kuties and Cuddly Capybara, will remain a key focus for the company in 2026, with both brands increasing their distribution channels and sales throughout this year, coinciding with the growth of the plush category and bag clips, surprise capsules and blind boxes being standout items from these product ranges.

Epoch Making Toys

0208 049 1377 | sales@epochmakingtoys.com

Autumn sees Epoch add several new character licensed sets to its Aquabeads portfolio. Available as part of the brand’s Nail Studio range is the Stitch Nail Designer Kit, which includes themed nails and decorations to make 40 unique designs featuring Stitch and Angel. The Barbie Nail Designer Kit also joins the Nail Studio range. The creative nail art set comes with over 40 eye-catching and colourful designs, including gems and 3D decorations featuring Barbie and friends. Requiring only a simple coat of water to apply, the nails are reusable, allowing them to be worn multiple times.

Paw Patrol fans will enjoy the new Aquabeads Paw Patrol Keychain Craft Kit. Featuring 600 shiny and star beads, kids can make their favourite characters and turn them into bagready charms, including Marshall in his fire truck, Chase, Skye and Rubble. In addition, the Paw Patrol Starter Craft Kit comes with a handy storage case and 700 beads and easy-to-follow templates for five creations, including Chase, Rubble, Marshall, Skye and Chase in his police vehicle. Pati-school has also added a Stitch set, complete with Hawaiian blue Pati-school paste, Stitch-inspired paper decorations and three treat-inspired craft bases, including a treasure box, a parfait glass base and a keychain.

Following hot on the heels of the two new Jurassic World Rebirth games launched to tie in with the movie earlier this year, Jurassic World Twin Tornado Attack has joined the Epoch Games range. In this thrilling game of skill, players must act as a rescue ranger on a helicopter, striving to save the dinosaurs from the dangerous island. Users must dodge the spinning tornado tops, be the first to reach the helipad and rescue the dinosaurs to win. The game is suitable for 2-4 players aged 5+.

Joining the popular line-up of Super Mario games is the Super Mario Question Block Game. The game offers multiple ways to play, including classic Bingo, or a game of teamwork where players work together using the transparent window to guess the mystery items in the box. The game is designed for one or more players aged 4+.

Character Licensed Merchandise Paladone

01273 230 037 | www.paladone.com info@paladone.com

Tapping into the vibrant world of kidults and with over three decades in the business, Paladone has built a global presence, offering over 1,000 trend-led, officially licensed products ranging from games, lighting and drinkware, to homeware and seasonal gifts, across more than 60 countries.

Paladone’s Icon range turns legendary figures from film, TV, gaming and comics into practical and stylish items designed for everyday use. Whether it glows, moves, or interacts, every Icon product is an officially licensed statement piece that’s both useful and made to delight fans of all ages.

The collection began with the classic Icon Light, a collectible character light featuring popular licensed designs. Building on that success, the range has grown into a versatile line-up of innovative formats. Icon Lights+ take the original concept and super-sizes the fun by grouping multiple characters in one display. Room Guards combine fandom with function, using motion sensors to detect movement and play an official themed sound from the associated character or franchise. Icon Alarm Clocks keep the character front and centre, often in an interactive format where consumers can tap them to turn off the alarm or activate a light, adding a playful touch to the morning routine.

With multiple licences available, the Icon range has been designed to delight fans who love building in Minecraft, hanging out with Hello Kitty and her friends, journeying to a galaxy far, far away with Star Wars, or smashing blocks with Super Mario. There’s an Icon design that speaks to every fandom, and the range continues to grow. Although the full details remain under wraps, Paladone is preparing to add a new collection inspired by the hit supernatural series Stranger Things to its licensed line-up.

These products combine the joy of collecting with the practicality of everyday use, making them perfect for birthdays, holidays, or surprises. With so many iconic characters and styles, gifting one is like giving a piece of pop culture magic that fans can enjoy every single day.

Simba Smoby

01620 674 778 | sales@simbasmoby.com

Simba’s vast licensed offering spans replica role-play toys, Disney Plush and die cast across a range of properties. It’s the year of Disney Stitch and, as a key Disney licensing partner for plush toys, Simba’s portfolio includes the immensely popular Stitch Movie Plush. This super-soft, long-pile toy enchants with its large eyes and ears. Perfect for cuddles, the Stitch Movie Plush also makes the most beautiful display toy. An extra-special highlight of this character plushie is that Stitch can stand freely. Simba’s Disney plush collection is packed with the most beloved Disney characters in an array of formats and styles. Some of the latest lines added to this year’s offering include Disney Doorables Plush, the collectibles brand as adorable soft toys, and Disney Snuglets, the weighted character plushies styled as though they’re off to bed. Jada’s Action Figure range has expanded further this season to include Scooby Doo figures. This new collection captures the fun of the iconic, pop-culture franchise, with 1:12 scale Shaggy Rogers, Mummy of Ankha and Creeper figures to collect in Series 1. Each features authentic styling, Jada’s renowned high level of detail, multiple points of articulation, pinless double joints, super-cool alternate hands and head sculpts, as well as an effect piece.

With the much-awaited fifth and final season of Stranger Things arriving in December, fans of the sci-fi hit can celebrate their fandom by collecting an all-new offering of Stranger Things 2.5” Metal Figs from Jada Toys. With three characters to discover in the range, including Vecna, Demogorgon and Demodog, these highly detailed die cast collectibles create an eye-catching display. There are other highly collectible, fan-favourite die cast vehicles to be discovered, including the Stranger Things Billy’s Chevrolet Camaro, a 1:32 scale replica of the 1979 Chevy Camaro from the show, and Stranger Things Hopper’s Chevy Blazer, a second 1:32 scale model that faithfully captures the Chevy K5 Blazer that Chief Jim Hopper drives.

After its sell-out success, stock has been replenished of Minecraft Movie 2.5” Metal Figs, and the Minecraft Nano Figure Blind Bags remain as popular as ever. This super-affordable line is kept fresh with regular wave updates, so consumers always have new figures to choose from. It’s the perfect way for fans to collect, play and display numerous characters from the world of Minecraft.

Character Licensed Merchandise Rainbow Designs

01329 227 300 | www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Known for high-quality, educational and inspirational toy collections, Rainbow Designs brings to life some of the most cherished and best-loved characters, including Paddington, Peter Rabbit, Disney’s Winnie the Pooh and Wizarding World’s Harry Potter. This year the portfolio has been further strengthened with the arrival of two new properties, the colourful Mr. Men Little Miss characters and the multi-award-winning pre-school favourite Bing.

The highly anticipated, reimagined Bing range is available now. Adapted from Ted Dewan’s much-loved books for television, Bing has captured the hearts of pre-schoolers with its focus on the small yet significant moments of pre-school life. Rainbow’s new Bing range features creative plush toys and play sets that have been specially tailored for an even younger audience. Created from baby-friendly materials and enriched with thoughtful developmental features, the new collection has been designed to entertain and to inspire creativity, imagination and sensory discovery.

The range includes the new Bing’s Favourite Things Activity Toy, bursting with tactile textures, gentle sounds and engaging elements to captivate curious little minds, as well as the Interactive Bing, Flop and Hoppity plush toys that interact when together. The innovative Bing Wooden Busy Board introduces hands-on play with cogs, beads and hidden doors, while the Wooden Shape Puzzle and Multi-Layer Wooden Shape Puzzle encourage problem-solving and exploration. These new additions build on the success of proven best-sellers such as the Talking Bing Soft Toy, the Bing and Flop Twin Pack and the 6 Figure Pack, while the line has been extended further with the introduction of a Bing Clip-On and a Bean Toy Assortment now featuring Sula alongside Bing and Flop.

The nation’s favourite bear, Paddington, stars in four of Rainbow’s best-selling collections, to cater for all fans. The Adventures of Paddington remains a strong favourite with pre-schoolers, and Rainbow’s best-selling toy range includes the award-winning Paddington Tea Set, Paddington Talking Soft Toy, 4-in-1 Dress Me Paddington and the Bessie the Campervan Play Set. Rainbow’s Paddington Movie collection includes a cuddly Paddington Soft Toy, an ultra-soft Giant Paddington and a Paddington Talking Soft Toy that plays five memorable phrases from the movie. The newly refreshed Paddington for Baby range offers beautifully designed nursery toys, comforters and rattles that make wonderful first toys for newborns and young babies, while the best-selling premium Classic Paddington collection makes a heartfelt keepsake gift.

Mr. Men Little Miss has captured the hearts of generations with its colourful characters and distinctive personalities. Rainbow’s vibrant new range includes large, huggable cushions, collectible soft toys and plush keychains featuring favourites such as Mr. Tickle, Mr. Happy, Mr. Bump and Mr. Strong, alongside Little Miss Hug, Little Miss Sunshine, Little Miss Princess and Little Miss Chatterbox. Perfect for gifting, this collection is sure to bring smiles to both children and nostalgic adults alike.

Beyond these headline ranges, Rainbow’s extensive licensed portfolio includes Guess How Much I Love You, Disney Baby Lion King, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Elmer, Giraffes Can’t Dance, Spot the Dog, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and the much-loved festive classics The Snowman and The Snowdog. Looking ahead, international viral sensation, Pembe the Pink Cat, will be joining Rainbow’s esteemed licensed character portfolio for 2026.

Toytopic

www.toytopic.com | sales@toytopicgroup.com

This year, ToyTopic is continuing its growth trajectory with its latest licensed ranges, all available now, covering the plush and plush accessories categories. Key licences include Paw Patrol, Peppa Pig, Furby, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, SpongeBob SquarePants, Sonic the Hedgehog, Minecraft and Swizzles.

The company has also announced two new brands that will be launching later this year and into spring 2026 – an all-new Peanuts range of plush as well as Sesame Street collectible plush keychains, with further new additions to be announced very soon.

In addition to core and seasonal plush, Toytopic’s ranges now include mini collectible plush, snap bracelets, backpacks, 2D cushions and pillow & blanket sets. The company is also launching its first non-plush ranges this year including make-yourown bath bombs and soaps based on the hugely popular Swizzles confectionery brands Love Hearts and Squashies.

From 2.5cm collectible Mini Palzzz plush, up to giant 100cm super soft plush and everything in between, Toytopic has something for everyone. With keen RRPs from £2.99 up to £69.99, the company offers exceptional value to customers and consumers alike, whilst keeping the highest of product standards.

UNDEREMBARGO

Character Licensed Merchandise

Nixy Toys info@nixytoys.com

Nixy Toys has announced the launch of Wind-Upz, a brand-new range of licensed collectible wind-up figures that have been designed to delight fans young and old. Taking inspiration from the timeless appeal of classic wind-up toys, Wind-Upz combines nostalgia with innovation, delivering a product that feels both familiar and completely fresh.

A key strength of the Wind-Upz brand lies in its impressive portfolio of licences. Nixy Toys has partnered with some of the most iconic entertainment properties, ensuring that every collector will find a favourite. Highlights include Warner Bros. DC superheroes Superman and Batman, family-friendly favourites such as Gabby’s Dollhouse, beloved nostalgic properties like Care Bears, and even pop-culture icons such as Mr Bean. This diverse character line-up allows Wind-Upz to appeal to multiple generations and audiences, from children who want to play to adults who love to collect or gift a touch of fun.

At the heart of the collection is the core 4-inch figure, designed with attention to detail and playful personality. Each figure walks and shuffles across the floor, and comes complete with hand accessories, character cards and special licensed styling that transforms a simple mechanical toy into a true collectible experience. Accompanying the core range are Mini Wind-Upz. These 2.1” figures are a perfect pocket-money purchase for kids or a novelty item for adults. With their mix of movement, character authenticity and display value, Wind-Upz are more than a toy.

The line is supported by Nixy Toys’ commitment to quality, creativity and innovation. The company believes that the toy and collectibles category thrives on surprise, delight and play value, and Wind-Upz embodies all three. With accessible price points, strong character branding and shelf-ready packaging designed to catch the eye, retailers can be confident in both sales performance and repeat purchases.

After a successful showcase at the Nuremberg Toy Fair in February 2025, Nixy Toys has seen overwhelming interest from retailers and distributors worldwide. The company has begun shipping orders throughout the UK, Europe and the Middle East. With placements already secured in several major retail chains, Wind-Upz is poised to become one of the standout collectible ranges for Q4 2025 and beyond

As we move into 2026, Nixy Toys is expanding the Wind-Upz universe with new characters, special editions and seasonal exclusives. With innovation at the core of its brand, Nixy Toys brings something truly fresh to the licensed toy market while celebrating the enduring charm of classic mechanical play.

Peers Hardy www.peershardy.com phayward@peershardy.co.uk

Peers Hardy has been a leading supplier of watches, clocks, jewellery and gifts for nearly half a century, with its much-loved Tikkers brand helping children learn to tell the time for over 25 years.

Building on the huge success of its licensed character watches and jewellery, the company has steadily expanded its licensed product offering. What began with stationery and umbrellas has since grown into a much broader lifestyle range, now including backpacks, hats, sunglasses, beauty products, a seasonal winter collection and more.

Peers Hardy recognises the ever-changing market and continues to evolve with popular trends such as anime-inspired design and the growing kidult movement. Its backpack collections combine high quality with affordable pricing, featuring a wide range of much-loved characters and franchises, including Stranger Things, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Minecraft, Peanuts, Disney, Marvel, Hello Kitty and many more. This diversification demonstrates Peers Hardy’s ability to adapt to consumer demand and strengthen its presence across multiple categories, ensuring its products remain both relevant and appealing to today’s retailers and fans alike.

To support its growing portfolio, Peers Hardy has recently unveiled a brand-new showroom at its head office in Solihull, conveniently located near the airport. The new space provides the perfect setting to showcase its expanding collections and welcome retail partners to experience the ranges first-hand. With a strong sales force of agents and the recent appointment of Sales manager Penny Hayward, the team is well-positioned for growth. To book an appointment to visit the showroom and view the full range, please reach out to Penny via the contact details above.

HELLO

Character Licensed Merchandise

Learning Resources

www.learningresources.co.uk | salessupportuk@learningresources.com

Numberblocks continues to captivate young audiences with new series and fresh content, keeping the learning journey exciting and relevant. Its clever storytelling, colourful characters and curriculum-based approach make it a show that resonates just as strongly in classrooms as it does at home.

Learning Resources helps transform the magic of Numberblocks into tangible, handson experiences that support children’s learning. As a licensed partner, the company works closely with the series’ creators to develop products that reflect the educational integrity of the episodes while offering children new ways to explore maths through play. Since launching its first MathLink Cubes Numberblocks set in 2020, Learning Resources’ partnership has continued to grow. What began as a single product has developed into a comprehensive, multi-category range spanning classroom resources, maths activity sets, figures, interactive play sets, plush, games, puzzles, sensory toys, wooden toys and electronic toys.

In addition, the company’s collaboration with the show’s creators has led to a collection of unique YouTube videos starring the toys. The latest, The Driving Dance, is a catchy song that invites children to count and sing along with One to Five, each in their mini vehicle representing their number. It didn’t take long to surpass 600k views, showing the popularity of these loveable characters.

Available from October and in time for Christmas is this year’s highly anticipated deluxe new play set: the Numberblocks Counting Car Garage. Children can count, learn and play as they race the Four and Six mini vehicles down the ramp, zoom off to the carwash, take the working lift and more. Packed with interactive features including lights, sounds and audio, as well as numbery details to reinforce maths learning, there are ten parking spaces so children can add the rest of the Mini Vehicles sets (sold separately) to their adventures.

Earlier this year, Learning Resources introduced several new products that continue to bring the loveable characters to life. The Numberblocks MathLink Cubes Activity Set: Heroes with Zeroes, is proving especially popular at retail. Inspired by the much-loved episode of the same name, it’s a great example of how Learning Resources brings key learning moments from screen to product.Young fans can also own plush versions of One to Ten, including interactive feature plush for Five and Eight with lights, sounds and audio. Learning Resources has also added wooden toys for open-ended play, such as stacking blocks and character sets that support fine motor development and problem-solving skills.

These launches, along with two new collectible figure sets, the Add It Up Mini Market play set, Numberblocks Dominoes and the tactile Numberblocks One to Five Sensory Bottles, have broadened the range’s appeal and given families even more ways to engage with the world of Numberblocks beyond the screen.

Learning Resources looks forward collaborating with its trade customers to create tailored marketing campaigns that support their online and in-store promotions of its licensed Numberblocks range.

Klein Toys

(49) 6345 4080 | www.klein-toys.com

Theo Klein is expanding its successful John Deere product line with new additions. Coming soon, new, detailed toy vehicles will complement the existing range. The new 1:24 scale vehicles are based on the popular John Deere design and have high-quality craftsmanship, play value and strong brand recognition. These vehicles are perfectly sized for little hands and suitable for children aged three and up.

The detailed John Deere 1:24 scale Tractor is a replica of the popular John Deere models. Designed for little hands to easily push across lawns, fields and playroom floors, it features large, sturdy wheels for smooth movement on any surface. The working forks can lift and transport wood, hay, or anything young farmers imagine. This product is ideal for developing imagination, motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The John Deere 1:24 scale Loader features a robust build and wide tires for top performance across all terrains. The large adjustable shovel is attached with strong, easy-to-use joints designed for small hands. Whether on an imaginary farm or construction site, this toy delivers big-time fun and adventure.

The John Deere Hauler guarantees plenty of playtime fun. With its wide tires, it easily conquers any terrain to transport or haul building materials. Crafted with care in 1:24 scale, it stands out with its realistic design and sturdy build. Even the youngest construction pros can handle it easily, turning every play session into a world of construction role-play. A rotating drum and sturdy funnel mean kids can load sand on the John Deere Cement Truck and simulate real construction action. Built in 1:24 scale, it features wide tires for smooth movement and robust construction to handle every construction site adventure. The new additions to the John Deere range by Theo Klein combine authentic design and durable quality. Perfectly suited for young hands and curious minds, these 1:24 scale models bring the excitement of farming and construction to life, indoors and outdoors.

Character Licensed Merchandise

MV Sports

With her evergreen appeal and strong heritage, Dora remains a licence that delivers excitement at retail. MV Sports presents a refreshed collection that blends durability, fun and innovation, ensuring standout products with strong play value and consumer demand.

The Dora Deluxe Tri Scooter is the perfect introduction to independent riding. Its sturdy threewheel design provides stability and balance for young riders, while bright Dora graphics give instant shelf appeal. Easy-steer handlebars and a robust frame ensure a safe and enjoyable first scooter experience, making it an ideal entry-level wheeled toy for retail.

The Dora 2 in 1 10" Training Bike supports the next stage of development. Starting as a balance bike, it helps children build core riding skills before converting smoothly into a pedal bike. The twoin-one format offers parents excellent value while encouraging brand loyalty, making it a versatile and attractive retail proposition.

For those ready for more, the Dora 12" Bike is a standout. Safety features include removable stabilisers, spoked wheels and a fully enclosed chain guard. A colourful Dora backpack squishle, which attaches neatly to the bike, adds a fun play element and strong point of difference at retail. With adjustable handlebars and seat height, it also offers long-lasting value for families.

The Dora Safety Helmet complements the wheeled range, combining lightweight comfort with a ventilated design and adjustable straps. Essential protection is paired with bold Dora styling, creating a cohesive accessory that supports attachment sales in-store.

Completing the line-up, the Dora Play Tent brings Dora’s adventurous world into any home or garden. Quick to assemble and easy to store, it inspires imaginative play while showcasing vibrant Dora graphics. Its cross-category positioning offers retailers an additional sales opportunity beyond wheeled toys.

MV Sports’ Hot Wheels range is bursting with energy, bold graphics and iconic flames, capturing the thrill of Hot Wheels and offering children the chance to bring the racetrack to life in their own back garden, driveway or park. From exhilarating ride-ons to feature-packed scooters and bikes, this line is built to fuel adventure, imagination and active play. The Racer Ride-On takes pole position in the line-up. Featuring bold Hot Wheels flame decals across a striking blue frame, it is packed with features including a large steering wheel, smooth wheel motion and realistic horn and engine sounds.

Barbie continues to inspire through a collection bursting with colour, character and creativity. From dazzling scooters and skates to the enchanting Barbie Dreamhouse Tent, these products let children embark on their very own journey to Barbieland while developing balance, coordination and imaginative play.

For timeless railway fun, Thomas & Friends is also full steam ahead. The Thomas Engine Ride On is the standout, this charming ride-on captures the look and feel of Thomas himself. Perfect for little ones, it encourages imaginative play while offering a smooth ride both indoors and out.

Red Robin Design

www.redrobindesign.be | elian.bernon@redrobindesign.be

Red Robin Design believes in the power of creativity, imagination and strong partnerships. Since July 2025, the company’s journey has reached a new milestone: alongside its established stationery contract, the supplier now owns the Minecraft bags and luggage contract for Europe, while also holding the rights for a growing DIY category, giving it a truly well-rounded presence in the Minecraft universe. This expansion is a natural evolution of Red Robin Design’s vision to deliver beloved creative worlds into the hands of fans in ways that feel both inspiring and practical.

By combining stationery, DIY and luggage categories under one roof, Red Robin Design has reinforced its position in the licensing market. The synergy between these lines is undeniable. Stationery, DIY and luggage often complement each other in the daily lives of students, young creators and Minecraft fans. From the backpack that carries the notebook, to the pencil case that holds crafting tools, to the DIY kits that bring digital creativity into the real world, Red Robin Design’s products form a consistent and recognisable ecosystem that extends the Minecraft experience beyond the screen.

Minecraft, with its boundless creativity and universal appeal, has long been one of Red Robin Design’s strongest and most important licences. Its core message: ‘imagination builds world’, aligns perfectly with the company’s own design philosophy. Red Robin Design strives to create products that embody the spirit of Minecraft: playful, innovative and inspiring.

This expansion is also a statement about the future. Red Robin Design believes that the licensing industry is at its best when it brings together brands, creativity and everyday life in seamless and meaningful ways. With Minecraft, the company aims to build bridges between the digital and physical, between play and practicality, and between fans and the worlds they love.

As Red Robin Design continues to grow, the company remains proud to be part of this creative universe. With stationery, DIY and bags and luggage now united under its care, the road ahead looks brighter and more creative than ever.

Character Licensed Merchandise

Trends UK

01295 768 078

info@trendsuk.co.uk

The Learn with Peppa range features three items which benefit from fresh packaging for the autumn/winter season. Peppa’s Laugh & Learn Alphaphonics lets pre-schoolers practise phonics and spelling with their favourite character from the show. It features seven activities, along with sounds and music. Peppa fans can also enjoy eight engaging activities with Count with Peppa. Peppa will ask the child to insert the play coins into her purse, as they identify different numbers, colours and pictures. With Peppa’s Phonic Alphabet, children will be introduced to letters and the sounds they make, helping to build vocabulary.

The Trends ELAs range includes a host of Paw Patrol lines. There’s the Smart Phone, Flip & Learn Phone, as well as the Flip Up Learning Pad, Ryder’s Alphabet Tablet and the Count with Marshall play set.

Colourblocks is introducing three new items. Colourblocks Paint Sticks is a pack of six character-shaped, mess-free paint sticks. The Colourblocks Paint, Draw, Stamp & Sticker Set comes with Paint Sticks, a 24-page activity book, stencils, stampers and more. Another set is the Stamp, Colour and Paint Stick Fun Pack.

Trends UK’s Numberblocks ELAs help children master new key maths skills with every adventure. The Numberblocks Mini Tablet is ideal for on-the-go lessons, programmed with four Numberblocks maths games. With this fun, low-priced line, children can familiarise themselves with addition, comparing numbers, sequencing and fine motor development. The range also includes Numberblocks Number Fun and Numberblocks Clip & Learn Number Fun.

The recently launched Alphablocks Character Playset provides an engaging, hands-on way for kids to master phonics and build reading confidence, with 26 Alphablocks Characters and included activity book. The new Alphablocks Jigword is a 26-piece alphabet puzzle that helps children develop early literacy skills while having fun, while existing favourites in the range include the Alphablocks Mini Tablet, Alphablocks Word Builder and Alphablocks Matchums and more.

The Bing Flip & Learn Phone is perfect for learning all about colours and numbers through engaging activities.

Rubies

0845 307 0707 | www.rubiesuk.com customerservices@rubiesuk.com

Rubies continues to deliver high-demand, expertly crafted character licensed costumes that bring favourite stories and icons to life. As consumers increasingly seek immersive toy experiences, Rubies’ character ranges remain a key driver of retail growth through Q4 2025 and into early 2026, giving consumers the ability to embody and become the character.

Among the standout offerings this season is the globally beloved One Piece range, featuring Monkey D. Luffy and Nami costumes that capture the spirit of the hit Netflix series. The Monkey D. Luffy costume set includes the character’s signature straw hat, top and trousers, perfect for fans eager to embody the adventurous captain of the Straw Hat Pirates. Equally, the Nami costume is designed with a skirt, top and a striking wig to bring the navigator’s vibrant personality to life. With One Piece continuing to dominate worldwide streaming charts and fan conversations, these costumes are proving extremely popular among younger consumers eager to step into the world of the Grand Line.

Joining the highlights is the timeless British favourite Paddington. Rubies offers both classic and deluxe costume options to suit a variety of occasions. The classic range features a hooded top and trousers, while the deluxe costume set includes a top, trousers, a soft plush headpiece and the signature red hat, making Paddington bear instantly recognisable. Paddington’s enduring charm and universal appeal ensure strong demand across all age groups, blending nostalgia with ongoing storytelling in new films and media, and also making the costume a perfect choice for World Book Day.

Looking forward to 2026, Rubies is introducing fresh licensed ranges that will expand its portfolio and delight fans of all ages. Coming soon are new dress up collections for beloved children’s favourites Bluey and Paw Patrol, both of which enjoy vast popularity and active fan communities. These new releases will complement the existing lineup by offering familiar characters in new costume styles.

Further blockbuster launches on the horizon include Spider-Man: Brand New Day, a highly anticipated sequel set to reignite fan passion for the web-slinging hero. Ahead of the film’s release, Rubies’ Spider-Man costumes will feature updated designs, perfect for consumers looking to embody the superhero.

Character Licensed Merchandise

Vivid Goliath

01483 449 944 | www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk

Vivid Goliath collaborates with a diverse range of licensors across its dynamic games portfolio –spanning iconic publishing brands, beloved TV hits, blockbuster movies, timeless pre-school classics and cult favourites. These partnerships lie at the heart of its innovation, helping the company deliver compelling, high-quality experiences to families and fans around the world. From the thrills of horror icons like Scream and Chucky, to the gentle fun of Paw Patrol Sequence for Kids and Triominos, Vivid Goliath’s licensed games portfolio spans the full spectrum of fans, from cult classic enthusiasts to pre-school favourites.

The Sims: The Board Game has launched to rave reviews from fans, just in time to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this iconic franchise. Capturing the spirit of creativity, self-expression and engaging gameplay that made the original a global pop culture phenomenon, the game brings The Sims to life in an entirely new way.

Murdle continues to challenge and captivate puzzle enthusiasts, with new puzzle books set to launch throughout 2025, supporting the board game. The Traitors fans will enjoy the Celebrity Special airing this autumn and can play the game to discover who is Faithful or a Traitor at their very own Round Table. Following the success of the Scream Party Game launched last season, horror fans are in for another treat with Chucky. This new party game features the infamous doll with 36 years of terror under its belt. Players must work together to explore an abandoned toy store, survive the night and stop Chucky from transferring his soul into one of them.

PMI

www.pmitoys.com | omer@pmitoys.com

PMI celebrates the power of character licensed merchandise with two headline launches that turn fan favourite characters into collectibles.

The Fuggler collectible line from PMI continues to grow. Fugglers are famous for weird charm, mischievous humour, human-like teeth, vacant eyes and a cheeky personality. Season 2 takes that attitude to a new level with beloved characters reimagined in true Fuggler style. Officially licensed by Paramount and Nickelodeon, this line features SpongeBob and Patrick from SpongeBob SquarePants, plus the full Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles team with Raphael, Michelangelo, Donatello and Leonardo. The range is built for discovery, surprise and repeat purchase. Shoppers can chase blind pack collectibles, clip Fuggler keychains to a bag and mix parts with switch and swap modular characters to create custom chaos. The line also includes fart activated figures that deliver a silly sound payoff and invite repeat interaction.

The figures have a bold look that sparks instant recognition. The Fuggler twist keeps everything fresh while staying true to brand authenticity that the community shares online. Unboxing moments are designed for short-form content and quick laughs. The signature button detail on the backside remains a wink for fans who know the brand, while the new character crossovers invite a wider audience to take a closer look. With strong shelf presence and social-ready personality, Fuggler Season 2 is set to deliver a steady drumbeat of newness, giving retailers a reason to refresh and consumers a reason to come back for more.

Booksy consists of a collectible figure that opens to reveal a tiny book inside. Each figure stands ready for play with articulated arms. When kids open it, there is a tiny storybook filled with vibrant illustrations that turn a quick moment into a little reading break. Each Booksy is a gift, a display piece and a spark for imagination in one neat package.

Booksy’s Disney licensed range features the most beloved characters, including Stitch from Disney’s Lilo and Stitch, Elsa from Frozen, Simba from The Lion King and Moana. The mix spans adventure and heart, giving children a favourite to connect with and a new story to share with friends or family. Parents will appreciate the calm pause that the book creates, while kids will love the surprise reveal and the chance to act out scenes with the figure in hand. Compact sizing supports front-of-store placement, travel and reward missions. The format also invites seasonal extensions and new character drops to refresh the line.

Together, Fuggler Season 2 Paramount Edition and Booksy The Disney Edition show PMI at its playful best, blending bold character worlds with clever formats that make collecting feel fresh, social and fun.

Character Licensed Merchandise

University Games 02072 540 100 | www.university-games.co.uk

University Games continues to lead the way in licensed games and puzzles, with a starstudded portfolio of licensed characters featuring household favourites from Matilda, Gangsta Granny, Dog Man and The Very Hungry Caterpillar, through to Paddington, Harry Potter and TV’s iconic Bullseye family quiz show character, Bully.

The spotlight will be shining on the award-winning Bullseye Board Game this festive season. In this game, players take aim with magnetic darts before answering tricky trivia across the nine TV show categories to win Bully’s Star Prize. Perfect for families, the Bullseye Mini Dice Game is also available either as a standalone or as an add-on for more competitive fun. Supported by a Q4 marketing campaign, a brand-new TV series launching this autumn and the darts craze that is sweeping the UK, Bullseye looks set to be a Christmas family favourite.

University Games’ best-selling Roald Dahl range features some of the author’s most celebrated characters, including Matilda in The Extraordinary Challenges Board Game. Combining mental and physical challenges, players race to collect books before Miss Trunchbull catches them. The popular new Swashboggling Story Telling Dice Game and the Roald Dahl Find It Fast Game are also providing even more imaginative fun and join the best-selling range of educational games: Matilda’s Splendid Spelling, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’s Marvellous Maths and The BFG’s Whizzpopping Letters.

Dog Man continues to build on the success of the blockbuster animated movie released earlier this year. University Games' latest addition, Dog Man Big Jim Begins, joins University Games' best-selling board games Attack of the Fleas, Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea, Flip-O-Rama and the Hot Dog Card Game to offer plenty of action-packed fun for fans.

University Games’ licensed character pre-school portfolio offers little learners a mix of fun and educational play. The range includes board games, floor puzzles and memory card games featuring much-loved storybook favourites such as The Very Hungry Caterpillar, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, Dinosaur Roar and Mog the Forgetful Cat, along with lots more new characters for 2026. Designed to support learning through play, these titles spark imagination and support early learning milestones, offering pre-schoolers an engaging way to play and discover.

For fans of the Wizarding World, University Games’ collectible Chibi range of Harry Potter 3D Puzzles lends itself to the kidult market as well as the latest generation of movie enthusiasts. Starring the young wizard, Harry Potter, and his friends, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, this magical trio can be constructed without the need for scissors or glue. The extensive 3D Puzzle range also features a series of famous landmarks and iconic transport from the movies, including Hogwarts Castle, the Hogwarts Express, the Knight Bus and buildings from Diagon Alley such as Gringotts Bank and Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes.

Wigston Global

ben.cornwell@wigstonglobal.com

Wigston Global has partnered with MGA Entertainment to launch the latest addition to the fastgrowing collectible brand MGA’s Miniverse Create Your Own Erasers. This new activity blends DIY craft with everyday stationery, delivering a new twist on collectability.

Children can design and make their own mini erasers using colourful compounds, themed moulds and accessories such as mini tweezers and decorating tools. Once shaped, the creations are simply baked in the oven to set, transforming them into real, usable erasers.

The debut series arrives in a blind box format with eight mini meal designs to collect, inspired by favourites such as fish & chips, jacket potatoes, burgers and pizzas. For extended creative play, the range also includes two larger box sets packed with additional moulds and designs.

With Create Your Own Erasers, children can craft their own mini meals and then use them every day at school, making the range both playful and practical.

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Character Licensed Merchandise

Enjoying a resurgence amongst Millennials, Tamagotchi remains a pop culture powerhouse, and its Tamagotchi Nano collections have been created to combine the experience of Tamagotchi with blockbuster entertainment licences in smaller, themed shells. While the core play pattern remains the same, gameplay unlocks exclusive content based on how users interact. With animated clips and themed mini games, the Nano range includes a brand-new Jurassic World Rebirth SKU alongside Hello Kitty, Tiny Tan, Spy×Family and One Piece.

The Premier Plastic Model kit from Japan, based on the globally iconic Gundam IP, combines technical quality with affordable value. A variety of grades means the collection is suited to modellers of all experience levels, and new dedicated locations and high-profile brand activations are coming up.

At the heart of Bandai’s DNA is a close relationship with the world's most beloved Anime Titles, including Dragon Ball and One Piece. Present across both Toy and Collector ranges, Bandai offers UK Manga and Anime enthusiasts dynamic action figures, miniature collectibles, plush characters, model kits and showcase statues. The Bandai Anime series encompasses Banpresto, Dragon Stars, Anime Heroes, Bandai Hobby, Ichibankuji and more.

Combining the high-quality and vast series of Bandai’s Gashapon collectibles with blind-bag consumption, this series also offers great value. Fans can explore a whole world of anime characters across IP including Dragon Ball, Demon Slayer and Godzilla. In addition, Bandai brings its wealth of IP expertise in Kawaii characters, including new items for Chiikawa, Kirby and Sanrio coming soon to the UK.

Littlest Pet Shop continues to build momentum as one of the strongest performing character-led properties in the category. Now in its fourth series, more than 30 bobblin’ head pets have been added, taking the total collection to over 120 characters. Alongside Blind Boxes, Pet Pairs and Surprise Plush, fresh innovations include Black Light Pets, which glow vividly under ultra-violet light, and the Sweet & Stylish Collection – a sub-£10 RRP range of food and fashion-themed sets.

2025 marks a major milestone for the hit franchise, Miraculous. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Miraculous has become an evergreen range for Bandai, which the company continues to evolve and refresh with new fashion dolls, collectibles, role-play and plush lines.

A line-up of collectible Gremlins figures brings a nostalgic twist on the iconic 80s film franchise. Tapping into a multigenerational fanbase, the mini and stylised collectible figures inspired by iconic moments from the blockbuster movie include Gizmo and Gremlins in varying poses from favourite scenes.

As distributors for McFarlane Toys, Bandai offers high-quality action figures across a range of classic and current properties, including Marvel Comics, DC Comics, The Walking Dead and more. Celebrating this year’s new Superman action blockbuster, McFarlane’s latest range of 5” and 7” Superman figures includes precision detailing, ultra-articulation, accessories, display bases and collectible art cards. The Marvel comics range of 1:6 and 1:10 scale pre-posed figures based on iconic comic book covers from Marvel’s storied history continues to expand, including Spider-Man, Fantastic Four, Deadpool and X-Men.

Character Options

0161 633 9800

sales@charactergroup.plc.uk

Character’s Peppa Pig Whizz-Around collection is a new track and vehicle-based toy range that encourages imaginative play and develops fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. With lots of vehicles, track and vehicle sets to collect, families can build their own Peppa Pig Whizz-Around world. A great place to start, the comprehensive Peppa’s Great Big World Set comes with three character-driven vehicles - Peppa’s Red Car, George’s Little Blue Train and Grandpa Pig’s Boat. These can be played with as standalone pieces or on a track using the road, train and river track pieces included.

The 4K revamped episodes of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (MMPR) are airing on Netflix now, and Character‘s portfolio includes the Playmates’ Master Toy line. The collection features action figures, vehicles, collectibles and roleplay lines. The Auto-Morphin’ Action Ranger and Alien Figures are ideal for enthusiasts wishing to immerse themselves in the show. Items from the iconic transforming Dinozord lineup can be combined to create the ultimate iconic Megazord. There’s also a 12” Scale Megazord complete with light and sound effects, Battle Bike and Figures, as well as role-play MMPR Masks, Morpher Deluxe Buckles and a Blade Blaster.

Character’s portfolio is also home to Playmates’ Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Master Toy range. Fans can celebrate all things TMNT, with toys inspired by Classic Turtles, the Mutant Mayhem movie and the Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Paramount Plus sequel show. The offering inspired by the TV series includes a core range of Mix ‘N Match Mutations figures which tap into the mutation theme with mix-and-match pieces to create custom mutants, offering a whole new way to collect TNMT figures. Fans can add other cool vehicles to their collections, including the Twist N Mutate vehicles that flip from vehicle to Ninja Turtle. The wider toy collection includes other waves of action figures to remember the Turtles in their various guises over the years.

Character Licensed Merchandise

07817 273 766

www.wowstuff.com kaya.leadsford@wowstuff.com

Following the launch of several huge blockbusters this year: DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon; Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Jurassic World Rebirth and Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch; Wow! Stuff has created Puppetronics that are engineered to the highest spec, allowing the user to recreate cinematic storytelling moments via electronically assisted, hand-controlled actions. The Puppetronics range is driven by the RealFX brand, the premium moniker within Wow! Stuff’s licensed portfolio.

Using advanced technology, Toothless Puppetronic by RealFX releases smoke through his nose and mouth, showing off his iconic purple plasma blast. Toothless also boasts over 50-character sound effects, responsive touch and motion sensors, the result being an experience that feels like it’s pulled straight from the screen.

The Dolores Deluxe Puppetronic, a lifelike

Aquilops, is set to become a familiar favourite following its October launch. At 1:1 movie scale, it has been developed to mirror Dolores’ big-screen counterpart exactly as seen in the film, encouraging inspired play. Dolores can be puppeteered from the hand and discreetly controlled from a backpack or bag, thanks to a cleverly concealed handset, allowing fans to recreate standout cinematic moments straight out of the box.

The multi-award-winning Disney Stitch Puppetronic by RealFX has now been joined by his alien counterpart, the Disney Angel Puppetronic by RealFX. Already captivating consumers, retailers and licensors, Angel boasts a host of distinct features and more than 100 interactive actions, from a playful repertoire of phrases to realistic movements and touch sensors that spark endearing reactions.

Building on the popularity of Stitch, Wow! Stuff has expanded the portfolio with the launch of the Disney Chatty Stitch and Disney Chatty Angel Deluxe Puppetronics. These super-soft, cuddly editions offer a different appeal and price point, featuring over 50 authentic sounds, phrases and lifelike movements. With lip-sync technology that brings their personalities to life, encouraging imaginative storytelling, the Chatty Deluxe characters are slightly smaller than their RealFX counterparts and designed for younger children and smaller hands. The Chatty editions also feature paired technology, meaning Stitch and Angel will uniquely interact when played with together.

Craft Buddy 020 3417 6565 | trade@craftbuddyltd.co.uk

Craft Buddy is unveiling a standout lineup for autumn/winter and Christmas, bringing sparkling creativity and collectability to all. This season’s launches are intended to capture attention as either a festive project, a thoughtful gift, an add-on purchase, or simply to bring a little sparkle into the home.

The highlight is the new Disney Crystal Art Magnetic Advent Calendar, a unique and innovative countdown to Christmas that combines crafting with display. Beautifully designed, reusable year after year and featuring daily creative reveals of twenty-four 6cm Disney and Pixar characters to craft, it combines the magic of Disney with the joy of crafting. The kit includes a 32 x 45cm festive tree-shaped magnetic display stand and frame to showcase every transformed Crystal Art character. This is a product that stands out from the usual calendar offerings, bringing adults and children together over the weeks of festive planning.

Craft Buddy’s new festive Crystal Art Grinch Collection features a classic Buddie Kit, an XL Buddie Kit and a 3D Sparkling Scene Kit. Completing the lineup is a Merry Grinchmas Crystal Art Card and How The Grinch Stole Christmas Scroll Kit.

Building on the success of the Buddies franchise launching this season are new bigger and bolder 12cm Mirror Buddies. This evolution of the Buddies range features six fan-favourite Disney, Marvel and Harry Potter premium acrylic characters on a mirrored base, giving a light-catching effect and presented in new packaging.

Series 6 of the multi-award-winning Crystal Art Buddies Kits deliver a sparkling new wave of nostalgic favourites and fresh character additions including the launch of the Care Bears licensed range with a collectible trio (Funshine Bear, Grumpy Bear and Cheer Bear) plus the Grinch and a further seven new designs from Disney-Pixar (Lotso and Nick Wilde), Zootopia (Judy Hopps), Looney Tunes (Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck) as well as Tom & Jerry.

Standing at 25cm tall, with more crystals and extra sparkle, there are four new XL Crystal Art Buddies for this season, including the Grinch, Darth Vader, Superman and Spider-Man.

Expanding into creative play, Craft Buddy is also launching a brand-new Crystal Art Friendship Bracelet Set. These twin-character sets celebrate the iconic duos of Stitch & Angel and Elsa & Anna, bringing a new twist to the friendship bracelet trend and ideal for sharing with friends or as a birthday gift.

Back for winter 2025 are the larger gifting format Crystal Art Mega Activity Sets which were a sell-out last year. With new Care Bears and Frozen editions, and everything needed to complete multiple creative activities, they provide hours of crafting fun.

Children’s Crystal Art Secret Diaries feature 48-pages plus a lock and two keys, complete with gems and tools to create a stunning front cover. Three new front cover designs feature Care Bears, Harry Potter and Frozen’s Elsa and Anna.

New formats, strong licences, best-sellers and award-winning evergreen lines position Craft Buddy’s Crystal Art ranges as a brilliant range to stock for autumn/winter and Christmas, with perfect stocking fillers and gifting products for the festive season.

Character Licensed Merchandise

winter launch of Jaws Fuggler brings a fresh twist to the Fuggler universe and is expected to drive even greater engagement across retail channels.

Zuru

Zuru’s Global Licensing team, headed from the UK, continues to drive disruption across the company’s top-performing portfolio by developing strategic relationships with key partners and delivering innovative brand extensions.

Fugglers’ distinctive design combined with a host of playful collaborations create a chaotic reimagining of iconic characters to bring humour and personality to licensed characters and stand-out at retail. Recent highlights include Fuggler SpongeBob SquarePants; Fuggler x DC, with Batman, The Joker, Harley Quinn and Superman; Fuggler Gremlins and Fuggler Lord of the Rings, with Gandalf, Frodo and Gollum. The upcoming autumn/

As part of Zuru’s long-term, multi-brand strategy, the company continues to strengthen its reputation as a trusted licensing partner. Its long-standing collaboration with Disney has already delivered some exciting launches, including Mini Brands Create Disney Snacks and Snackles Disney Edition.

Progressive licensed plush line Snackles remains a hit, thanks to a programme of limited-edition range drops. The cute, collectible velour animals each come paired with an iconic snack brand, combining on-trend plush design with strong licensing appeal. New for this year, the 5” expandable Disney Snackles are available in blind capsules, featuring eight beloved Disney characters paired with their favourite treats, from Disney Stitch with a coconut to Disney Winnie the Pooh clutching his jar of ‘Hunny’.

Zuru’s award-winning Mini Brands range has extended the Disney partnership into the creative play space with Mini Brands Create Disney Snacks. This latest launch taps into the growing miniature food trend among kidults and adult collectors, blending Disney fun with hands-on play. Fans can craft nine unique recipes, from Disney Mickey Mouse-shaped waffles to Disney Stitch sundaes and Elsa-inspired frosted delights.

Hasbro

0208 569 1234 | www.hasbro.co.uk

Peppa Pig’s new baby sibling is here, and kids aged three years and up can recreate their favourite scenes from the show with the Peppa Pig Oinks & Snuggles Baby interactive baby doll with accessories. There are over 20 different sound effects, activated by giving the pretend dummy or bottle, bouncing up and down, or laying baby down for pretend naptime. Cute accessories like a playmat, bib and baby blanket add to the nurturing play.

The Peppa Pig Peppa’s Family of Five toy set comes with Daddy Pig, Mummy Pig, George, Peppa and Baby Pig in a carrier so the new addition can join the family on their everyday adventures. Little ones can put the carrier on Mummy or Daddy Pig and recreate favourite scenes from the show or tell new stories of their own. The poseable figures can hold hands for sweet family moments.

As the Pig family is growing, so is their house. With Peppa Pig Peppa's Big Family House play set, kids can recreate favourite scenes from the show and imagine new adventures with Peppa, George and Baby. This large, 2-story, 7-room house play set opens up to be over 2.5 feet (80 cm) wide and is packed with accessories to decorate and set up the house. Peppa, George and Baby each have their own bedroom, including a rainbow loft bed for Peppa and a dino bed for George, just like in the show. There's a bathroom, a living room, a kitchen with a fridge that opens and a garage with a door that lifts. Baby Pig can play in the bouncer, sit in the highchair, or take a pretend nap in the cradle. The Peppa Pig Peppa's Big Family House toy set includes Baby Pig, George and Peppa figures; additional figure sets inspired by favourite Peppa Pig characters are sold separately to add to the family fun.

Peppa Pig Peppa and Baby's Park Fun play set is a 4-piece toy set that comes with two Peppa Pig character figures: Peppa and her new baby sibling, wearing matching yellow duck outfits. Children aged three and up can play with Peppa pushing Baby in the stroller and watching the duck swim back and forth in the pond, playing out scenes from the show and telling all kinds of stories.

The Peppa Pig Peppa's Big Family Car comes with two figures, Peppa and her adorable baby sibling. Kids can open and close the boot, bonnet and doors, and the car's open top makes it easy to put figures in the seats. Kids can pop the suitcase in the boot and install the car seat for Baby, ready for a road trip. The car can fit up to five figures (sold separately, subject to availability), so there's room for the whole Pig family.