Bulldog launches its partnership with iconic kids’ brand at BLE 2024

Independent licensing agency Bulldog Licensing has been appointed as UK licensing agent for Beano, one of the best-known and most recognisable brands in children’s entertainment.

With superb timing, the appointment was unveiled recently as the licensing industry gathered for the 25^th anniversary edition of Brand Licensing Europe – and as UK comic fans celebrated National Comic Book Day on 25 September.

Bulldog’s stand at BLE included a dedicated display unit showcasing the Beano comic, which was given out to visitors both on the stand and at the show entrances. Dennis and Gnasher also made an in-person appearance at the show, during the much-loved characters parade.

Beano, the world’s longest running weekly comic, was first published in July 1938 and continues to be produced weekly at its original headquarters in Dundee and printed in the UK. In addition to a healthy comic circulation – a Beano is sold every 7 seconds, Beano holds the top spot for annuals in 12 out of the last 14 years and reaches millions of fans on its digital network, most notably the award-winning site Beano.com, as well as YouTube and the Beano app on Amazon Kids+.

This strong brand recognition has boosted a growing licensing list that ranges from gifts, cards and dress-up to toys, jewellery, plush, fashion bags, books, and more. Beano is also a popular choice for promotions and events, collaborating with major names such as Ocado, Netflix, and Kew Gardens, as well as shopping destinations and family-focused events.

Bulldog Licensing will be building on Beano’s existing licensing footprint and pursue new and expanded opportunities in kids’ markets. Importantly, it will also be targeting new opportunities in adult markets, where Beano enjoys strong awareness among many generations.

And that’s not all. As well as exploring opportunities for 2025, there’s also the exciting task of building towards Dennis’ 75^th anniversary in 2026!

The strong interest Beano attracted at BLE from existing and potential partners underlines the continuing popularity of the brand at retail and the many opportunities available for a licensing campaign, supported by a well-established and extensive range of style guides and assets.

Rob Glenny, Head of Commercial & Business Development, Beano Studios says: “Beano is both an iconic name for adults and a popular modern kids’ brand, making it a winning proposition for licensing partners and retailers alike. We’re delighted to be working with Bulldog to develop a brand that resonates across and continues to delight kids and families today.”

Bulldog Brand Manager Sophie Yates adds: “Beano is a brand like no other. It’s a part of comic history and the childhoods of many generations, whilst remaining up to date and loved by millions of today’s kids. It offers numerous opportunities for licensing growth across multiple categories and age groups – as the strong interest it attracted at BLE indicates. We are looking forward enormously to building on the existing licensing programme for this iconic brand.”

Strength and diversity of Bulldog offering highlighted at Europe’s biggest licensing show

Bulldog Licensing has announced its plans for BLE 2024, where this leading licensing industry agency is once again welcoming visitors to stand A190.

Bulldog will be promoting an impressive selection of brands ranging from world-renowned classic property Care Bears, the iconic Me to You character brand, the incredibly successful Magic Mixies toy-based brand, evergreen hit Sesame Street, the much-loved, classic crime-fighting franchise Totally Spies, the iconic comedy character Mr Bean and one of the most successful children’s publishing brands of the past 25 years, That’s Not My….

Care Bears continues to show incredible growth more than 40 years after the property first appeared on greetings cards and inspired one of the most successful licensing programmes of all time. The clear and relatable brand identity – rainbow colours, loveable characters, and unique belly badges, along with the core messages of kindness and caring – remains as popular as ever.

Not surprisingly, costume character appearances from the Care Bears at the recent Gloworm festival proved popular with kids and parents alike, as did a highly successful two-week Care Bears Forever London art exhibition, which began on 29^th  August at gallery@oxo. Its display of new and original, never-before-seen of Care Bears-inspired artwork attracted fans of all ages, as well as the odd celebrity Care Bears fans!

The Care Bears licensing programme is seeing huge retail traction across multiple categories, ranging from plush through to apparel, accessories, and homewares, collectibles and gifts, making Care Bears one of the must-have multi-generational brands in the UK.

Since 2000 Carte Blanche has partnered with best-in-class licensees to bring to market best-selling Me to You products across many categories including apparel, print on demand, food, gifting and nursery – selling millions of licensed products every year. Tatty Teddy is already one of the most popular character brands on the market with 83% brand awareness among UK adults, and has a full, cross-category licensing programme with enormous appeal, particularly among adult women, children and infants, showing strong growth at retail across multiple categories.

Bulldog is now taking the extraordinary reach of Me To You’s signature character Tatty Teddy and the nursery property Tiny Tatty Teddy to the next level. Recent licensing deals include Brand Threads for nightwear, Brand Alliance for leisurewear, Pawprint Family for patches and pins and Craft Buddy for arts and crafts kits. In addition, a network of international agents is working with Bulldog to build on the brand’s strong presence in international markets. They include such major names as Revolution in South Africa, Kopa in South America and MJA Licensing France, with another signing – for Australia and New Zealand – expected soon.

Bulldog is also building on the incredible licensing success of Moose Toys’ Magic Mixies toys range, which began with the Magic Mixies Cauldron. This special toy comes with a spell book and everything else needed to mix a potion to create an interactive magical Mixie pet. The newest, highly successful innovation has been Magic Mixies Pixie Supreme – 10.5″ fashion doll with stunning detail and an enchanting style – and the 50 lights and sounds of the Magic Mirror that sets the beautiful Pixie Supreme free.

The range has been a runaway hit since launch, both in its own right and now as the inspiration for a variety of licensed products.

All products are aimed at the children’s and tweens’ market and are designed with help from the comprehensive Magic Mixies style guide, which makes full use of the colourful characters, logos and imagery that have underpinned the success of the brand in the toy and plush space.

Nightwear, publishing, food and drink containers, bags and accessories are just some of the Magic Mixies-inspired products at retail already – and many more licensing extensions are signed or on the way.

Magic Mixies is a hit on streaming services too! Magic Mixies webisodes, which first launched on YouTube and Kidoodle TV in May 2022, have also been available on Netflix since early 2023 and are boosting an already phenomenally successful brand.

Sesame Street is one of the most iconic brands in the world, engaging fans of all ages while delivering on its mission to help children grow smarter, stronger and kinder.

Sesame Street is a key focus for Bulldog in the UK. Working on behalf of the global non-profit organisation Sesame Workshop, the agency has announced numerous deals for Sesame Street as it continues to grow its presence at UK retail. In addition to Just Play’s master toy programme, there is a rapidly growing pre-school licensed product range at all major retailers. Sesame Street also has strong appeal to the adult market, inspiring successful ranges of apparel, badges, embroidered patches and more.

This retail and licensing growth is supported by Sesame Street’s strong multi-platform presence across the UK including the recent expansion to Amazon Kids+ with a new season launch in Fall 2024. Sesame Street content is also available on Tiny Pop’s FAST channel, Channel 5’s Milkshake! pre-school programming block, and Sesame Street’s YouTube channel attracts an incredible 94 million annual views from the UK and Ireland as well as a strong social media engagement and reach.

In addition, the brand is going from strength to strength in soft lines, with a major fashion retailer recently launching a broad new range. In the run-up to BLE, Elmo made a long-awaited visit to the UK sharing laughter and learning with all his friends.

BEYBLADE X makes its BLE debut for Bulldog and marks the fourth iteration of the hugely popular anime series and toy brand which has sold over 500m lifetime units of the iconic toy lines. With a high profile TV platform launching this year, support across digital channels and a huge toy plan from partner Hasbro, this is set to be one of the biggest boys’ brands in the UK and excitement amongst licensees is palpable. Initial licensed lines will roll out from early 2025 in support of the incredible toy lines and a full cross-category campaign will build throughout next year, making BEYBLADE X a must-have for retailers everywhere.

Produced by Banijay Kids & Family label Zodiak Kids and Family France, animated spy-fi series Totally Spies! originally ran from 2001 for six seasons. It hooked a generation of fans with its iconic aesthetic and powerful female leads, and has recently returned with an all-new 7th season.

The initial licensing focus for Bulldog is on a strong adult nostalgia market keen to revisit an entertainment classic which has been viewed over 2.1 billion times on YouTube. Some of the early categories targeted will be apparel (daywear and nightwear), fashion accessories, tech products, health & beauty and stationery.

The campaign will be further boosted with the brand’s introduction to a whole new generation of fans. A new season of the animated show has already begun airing internationally with Gulli (France), and will soon be heading to Discovery Kids LATAM and across EMEA and the US with Warner Bros Discovery. An 8th season of the animated seris has been confirmed, and a live action version is also in development with Amazon MGM Studios, Banijay Kids & Family, and Jessica Elbaum and Will Ferrell’s Gloria Sanchez Productions. Licensing industry interest is already strong, with the first deals expected to be announced soon.

Bulldog Licensing has also been appointed by leading children’s entertainment powerhouse Banijay Kids & Family as UK licensing agent for Mr Bean – the iconic comedy character, co-created by Rowan Atkinson and Richard Curtis,  that has been wildly popular for nearly 35 years in both live action and animated formats (produced by Tiger Aspect Kids & Family).

Mr Bean tries to solve apparently minor problems presented by everyday tasks and often causes major, and hilarious, disruption in the process. The visual and often non-verbal comedy that drives the character has ensured there have been no language barriers to a success that has brought Mr Bean high awareness and enormous popularity in close to 200 countries. Mr Bean also has a staggering online presence that has attracted 19 billion lifetime views on YouTube and placed the property at the number one spot for TV and film brands on Facebook worldwide.

Bulldog Licensing will be building on Mr Bean’s existing licensing presence and pursuing new and expanded opportunities in kids’ and adults’ markets, focusing on both the iconic original series and the highly popular animated series. Already a hugely successful brand in retail, imagery from both live and animated formats will inform growth in the licensing campaign, targeting multiple categories including (to name only a few) homeware, stationery, t-shirts, toys, collectables, bags and greeting cards.

Recent signings for the iconic comedy character include Whitehouse Leisure/Posh Paws for plush aimed at both the retail and amusement sectors and Heathside Trading which will be developing collectables and gift lines.

Published by Usborne, That’s Not My… is the bestselling touchy-feely book series for babies and toddlers and a gifting favourite for newborns as their first book. Featuring bright pictures, with patches of different textures, the books are designed to develop sensory and language awareness. There is also a little white mouse for children to spot on every page.

The humour, bright colours and distinctive That’s Not My… illustrations have inspired a delightful, top-selling range of babywear/accessories, kidswear, apparel, footwear and luggage from some of the UK’s major names in licensed apparel. Other licensed products currently available include wall stickers, bags and a gift range. That’s Not My… is firmly established as an evergreen property that is a part of the childhood of millions of children and, after the recent launch at retail in the US, the fan base is still growing.

Bulldog will be targeting a wide range of categories ranging from toys and apparel to nightwear and games for the US, while continuing to build on the already established UK licensing programme. It has also signed WB Brands as agent for the key Australia and New Zealand markets.

There’s a lot more news at stand A190, including licensing deals for Popeye in his 95th birthday year, the ten-year licensing success of hit TV darts-based quiz show Bullseye and new brand representations, including attitude, the definitive gay magazine.

Bulldog Licensing Group MD Rob Corney says: “We’re looking forward to highlighting both our established representations and some very exciting new brands that are already inspiring a strong industry buzz. All of the brands we represent highlight the strength and diversity of the Bulldog offering, a theme that will be key to the company’s message to its visitors at Europe’s biggest licensing show. See you on stand A190!”

UK licensing programme for iconic character continues to enjoy strong support

Bulldog Licensing, the leading licensing agency which represents Popeye in the UK on behalf of brand owner King Features Syndicate, has announced two more major deals for the iconic brand, with leading fancy dress, Halloween and carnival manufacturing company Smiffys and with Player Ammo, which produces a healthier alternative to sugary energy drinks.

Smiffys will produce a range of costumes and accessories for adults and kids based on Popeye, his girlfriend Olive Oyl and other friends and foes of the popular sailor man. They will be available at Smiffys stores as well as online from early 2025.

Player Ammo proudly presents a limited Popeye 95th Anniversary Edition, powdered energy drink and shaker bundle. This special bundle features a Mango & Guava flavour with vibrant designs showcasing the legendary sailor man squaring up to Brutus. Having debuted at London MCM comic convention at ExCel in May, it’s now available for purchase via www.playerammo.com and marketplaces.

RH Smith – universally known as Smiffys – has been in the business of fancy dress since 1894, becoming a global organisation with offices and showrooms worldwide. As the leading fancy dress, Halloween and Carnival manufacturing company in the UK, the company distributes nearly 7,500 products to over 2,000 stockists around the world, with over 26 million items shipped every year.

Player Ammo produces energy supplements with a difference. Not fans of sugary or fizzy drinks, the team behind the company aimed for something that was tasty, affordable and healthy. A supplement created to boost cognitive energy and focus that is a healthier, vegan-friendly alternative to sugary energy drinks. Infused with potent nootropics, Player Ammo delivers the sustained energy and mental clarity necessary for peak performance in gaming, sports, and is utilised by professionals ranging from nurses to engineers.

Popeye is one of the world’s best-known brands, with a strong appeal to people of all ages for nearly a century. His signature muscle-enhancing diet of spinach and his catchphrases “I Yam What I Yam” and “Well Blow Me Down!“ have inspired thousands of comic strips, hundreds of books, and over 600 episodes of cartoon content, not to mention songs, posters, films and much more.

Popeye is not only ingrained in pop culture he has become one of the most recognisable and beloved characters in the world. Now, with his 95th birthday in 2024, Bulldog Licensing is building on the already strong Popeye licensing programme within the UK, most recently through a deal with Skinnydip for phone cases apparel, accessories, and much more.

Bulldog’s Licensing Director Vicky Miller says: “The appeal of Popeye remains powerful after nearly a century, and it is no surprise that he is an inspiration for dress-up and energy drinks from two companies that are admired for quality and innovation. The UK licensing programme for this iconic character continues to enjoy strong support – and it’s still growing; we look forward to making more announcements soon!”

Dominique Peckett, Director at Smiffys, says: “Popeye is one of the most identifiable and popular characters on the planet, with a look and style perfectly suited to fancy dress. We’re thrilled to be working with a brand that enjoys such incredible levels of awareness and popularity – and that has been around almost as long as we have!”

Mohammed Javed at Player Ammo, says: “Popeye’s active, can-do image and confident, upbeat attitude have made him a hit for decades and are perfect for a product range that emphasises energy and positivity. It’s a real thrill to be working on this legendary property.”

Bulldog brings world’s biggest LGBTQ+ media brand to licensing for the first time

Independent licensing agency Bulldog Licensing has been appointed by brand owner Stream Publishing Limited as licensing agent for the UK and Ireland for attitude, the definitive gay magazine.

Bulldog Licensing will be building on the strong awareness and positive associations of the brand and pursuing new and expanded opportunities in the adult market as attitude comes to licensed products for the very first time.

Key initial categories will including apparel, accessories, gifts, wall art, houseware and health and beauty. The magazine’s design assets also support numerous opportunities that embrace famous magazine covers and features as well, of course, as the iconic attitude logo.

Launched in March 1994, attitude is the best-selling gay magazine in the UK and Europe and the world’s biggest LGBTQ+ media brand. It combines a reputation for major exclusives news on serious issues affecting LGBTQ+ people all over the world with blockbuster celebrity interviews, hot men, the latest fitness tips, cutting-edge fashion and profiles of the best travel destinations.

The print title is sold in 31 countries worldwide, many in translation, while in digital form subscriptions are downloaded in more than 120 countries. It has a massive social media following, in the millions across multiple platforms, and has inspired the establishing of the Attitude Magazine Foundation, a registered charity which has raised and distributed more than £500,000 for LGBTQ+ causes since its founding in summer 2018.

Darren Styles, MD of Stream Publishing, says: “We have long believed that, as the world’s biggest LGBTQ+ media brand, attitude has a lot to offer in the realms of licensing and branding with the help of the right partner: in Bulldog we have undoubtedly found that partner. Its understanding, expertise and vast network of contacts across the industry, as well as its skill in managing diverse brands and target groups, will help us to build on the enormous success and strong awareness that attitude has attracted over more than 30 years.”

Bulldog MD Rob Corney says: ““attitude is a byword for excellence in writing, design and campaigning that stands out not just among gay magazines, but as an iconic brand in its own right. Popular, admired and culturally significant from day one, attitude offers numerous design assets and fantastic opportunities for licensing that demonstrably unique – for licensees to address a discerning audience across many categories.”

Summer launch for fourth and fastest generation of classic toy brand at retail and on TV

Independent licensing agency Bulldog Licensing has been appointed by ADK Emotions NY Inc. and T-Licensing Inc. as UK and Ireland licensing agent for BEYBLADE X – the fourth generation of the classic toy brand that has entranced kids and adults since it burst on the scene 25 years ago.

Starting as BEYBLADE in 1999, then launching as BEYBLADE: METAL FUSION in 2008 and BEYBLADE BURST in 2015, the iconic battling spinning tops and launchers have sold over 500 million toy units globally.

The toys have also inspired hit animated series: the show based on the most recent generation, BEYBLADE BURST, has been broadcast and streamed worldwide.

Now with the arrival of BEYBLADE X, launched this summer in the UK and Europe, BEYBLADE’s already stellar success is about to reach another level. The exciting new BEYBLADE X is the fastest BEYBLADE ever, boasting a customisable three-piece system, die cast metal battle layer, burst function and brand-new gear system.

After its launch in Japan in July 2023, BEYBLADE X became one of the best-selling toy brands of the year in that country and is rolling out across multiple territories throughout 2024, backed by a massive cross-media marketing presence, including a global strategy involving regional YouTube channels featuring animation, toy, influencer, and trending content. And of course, there are iconic all-ages BEYBLADE tournaments taking place all around the world and a brand-new multi-language Roblox online gaming collaboration.

Supporting this activity will be an all-new TV series delivered by an all-star team of manga and anime greats and, of course, a major licensing campaign, managed in the UK and Ireland by Bulldog. ADK Emotions NY Inc. and T-Licensing Inc. recently announced the launch of BEYBLADE X in several new global markets, with the UK premiere of the whole series dropping on BBC iPlayer on Monday 19^th August 2024.

The licensing potential of BEYBLADE X is clearly extraordinary, as the success of previous BEYBLADE generations makes clear. BEYBLADE BURST alone has inspired a wide range of SKUs, encompassing everything from bikes to bedding and from backpacks to books.

The BEYBLADE X licensing campaign, aimed at a core market of children to teens but with a strong nostalgia appeal to the adult market, is certainly extensive, encompassing multiple categories that range from kids’ and adults’ apparel to backpacks, lunchboxes, stationery, party goods, food, confectionery, publishing, collectibles, digital gaming, apps and much more, supported by promotions involving restaurants, stores and many other partners.

A representative from ADK Emotions NY Inc says: “The design brilliance of BEYBLADE X and the BEYBLADE brand values of competition, strategy, community and friendship have once again produced a memorable generation of toys that are set to be a worldwide hit. The licensing campaign will further extend brand reach to the vast BEYBLADE fanbase and we’re delighted to be working with Bulldog, one of the leading agencies in Europe, to bring BEYBLADE X to multiple licensing categories across the UK and Ireland.”

Bulldog MD Rob Corney says: “BEYBLADE X combines the powerful appeal of an established brand with the excitement of a new generation in a way that will galvanise demand both for the core product and for licensed product inspired by the brand. The arrival of BEYBLADE X in Europe is an extraordinarily exciting event and one we fully intend to support with a comprehensive and multi-category licensing strategy that does full justice to this incredible brand.”

Multi-category deal for classic show launches with apparel and phone cases
as new season is announced

Bulldog Licensing, the leading licensing agency which represents much-loved, classic crime-fighting franchise Totally Spies! in the UK on behalf of brand owner Banijay Kids & Family, part of content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment, has announced a new deal for the iconic brand with Skinnydip, a renowned supplier of fun and quirky accessories, clothing and lifestyle product.

Recently launched on the Skinnydip site is the first product in the Totally Spies! x Skinnydip London collab, a series of phone cases featuring colourful, action-packed illustrations starring Sam, Clover and Alex, three teenage girls from Beverly Hills, who live a double life as undercover agents fighting crime while trying, not always successfully, to live normal lives as students.

Much more is on the way; this agreement extends to tech accessories, apparel, accessories, beauty and bathing, gifting and travel and homeware.

Produced by Banijay Kids & Family label Zodiak Kids & Family France, Totally Spies! originally ran from 2001 for six seasons, hooking a generation of fans with its iconic aesthetic and powerful female leads.Totally Spies! has sold to 220 territories and is available in 60 languages, with an impressive 1.63 million subscribers, 2.1 billion views and 362 million hours streamed on YouTube alone. The show also has 1.4 million Facebook followers worldwide.

A seventh season was announced in 2022 and has launched in France on Gulli (M6) and will air around the world on Discovery Kids LatAm, and Warner Bros. Discovery across EMEA and the US. Last month Gulli and Warner Bros. Discovery EMEA confirmed season 8, plus Amazon has unveiled development on a young adult live-action adaptation of Totally Spies! with Amazon MGM Studios, Banijay Kids & Family, and Jessica Elbaum  and Will Ferrell’s Gloria Sanchez Productions.

The licensing campaign for the brand launched late last year and licensing industry interest is already strong. The initial focus for Bulldog is on a strong adult nostalgia market keen to revisit an entertainment classic. Some of the early categories targeted will be apparel (daywear and nightwear), fashion accessories, tech products, health & beauty and stationery.

Skinnydip launched its first phone case design in 2011. Since then, it has evolved to become a go-to destination for female Gen-Z clothing and accessories. Today it serves up unique, witty and stand-out products to an ever-growing community of customers, influencers and celebrities around the globe through Skinnydiplondon.com, its two standalone stores and over 200 stockists worldwide The company has also collaborated with a wide range of household-name entertainment brands.

Bulldog’s Licensing Director Vicky Miller says: “It’s no surprise Totally Spies! is attracting such a positive licensing industry response. The show enjoys enduring appeal among adults who fell in love with the original action, gadgets and missions, alongside young audiences who also enjoy the show’s wit, invention, and positive messages about friendship and teamwork. It’s ideal for many categories, which is why we’re thrilled to be working with Skinnydip, a company with a strong offering that appeals to multiple age groups.”

Lewis Blitz, Managing Director at Skinnydip, says: “Totally Spies! ticks so many boxes for our customer base in terms of humour, excitement, style and of course female empowerment, all combined with powerful and arresting imagery. Sam, Clover and Alex are a welcome addition to our accessories, clothing and lifestyle ranges.”

Roubina Tchoboian, Head of Global Licensing at Banijay Kids & Family adds: “With the season 7 launch, confirmation of an 8^th series and the development of a live-action version, there is significant momentum for Totally Spies!. Skinnydip, with its fun and fresh approach to accessories and lifestyle products, is a great partner for the brand, and the perfect fit for our sizeable millennial and Gen Z fans,”

Bulldog Licensing, appointed to manage UK licensing for Mr Bean, announces first deal

Independent licensing agency Bulldog Licensing, which has been appointed by brand owner Banijay Kids & Family as UK and Ireland licensing agent for Mr Bean, has announced a major new licensee signing for the iconic comedy character.

Whitehouse Leisure International and its sister company Posh Paws International, will be producing Mr Bean plush for both the retail and amusement/leisure sectors, as well as designing and producing a range of Mr Bean novelty key chains and mugs.

Both ranges will be inspired by a character that has been wildly popular for nearly 35 years in live action and animated formats, both on TV and in films.

Available from spring 2025, across online, toy & gift stores, amusement, leisure and entertainment destinations, the Mr Bean plush and novelty items will be aimed at all ages, reflecting the appeal of the character to all generations.

Whitehouse Leisure is the leading manufacturer and distributor of amusement and redemption products across UK, Europe and the Middle East, renowned for its impressive product catalogue of licensed and trending own-brand products for the amusement and leisure sector. Posh Paws is a leading manufacturer and distributor of licensed and own-brand plush toys and gifts across the UK, with a wide distribution base ranging from local toy and gift shops to high street and online retailers.

Co-created by Rowan Atkinson and Richard Curtis, Atkinson describes the character as “a child in a grown man’s body”, Mr Bean tries to solve apparently minor problems presented by everyday tasks and often causes major, and hilarious, disruption in the process.

The visual and often non-verbal comedy that drives the character has ensured there have been no language barriers to a success that has brought Mr Bean high awareness and enormous popularity in close to 200 countries and a staggering online presence that has attracted more than 19 billion lifetime views on YouTube and made it the biggest Facebook page in the world for a film and television character.

Bulldog Licensing will be building on Mr Bean’s existing licensing presence and pursuing new and expanded opportunities in kids’ and adults’ markets, focusing on both the iconic original series and the highly popular animated series.

Imagery from both live and animated formats will inform a licensing campaign which will target multiple categories including (to name only a few) homeware, stationery, t-shirts, toys, collectables, bags and greeting cards.

Since 1990 the show has gone from 14 live action episodes to a globally renowned brand with over 30 years of continuous distribution. The Mr Bean live action show launched in 1990 to great acclaim, winning a number of international awards. By 1995 it had inspired the first of two movies. The animated series launched in 2002. Today the brand needs little introduction, boasting fans of all ages.

The latest animated series (produced by Tiger Aspect Kids & Family), series 4, launches in 2025, executive produced and voiced by Rowan Atkinson and will air on ITVX and Warner Brothers Discovery in the UK.

Lauren Shipman, Group Brand & Marketing Director, says: “We are excited to work with an internationally known, instantly recognisable character with cross-generational appeal. The humour and imagery that is associated with Mr Bean is also ideal for toys, gifts and novelties that we are certain will be popular with both our retail and leisure customers”.

Roubina Tchoboian, Head of Global Licensing, Banijay Kids & Family says: “Mr Bean is a global phenomenon which is instantly recognisable just about everywhere and with a new animated series on the way, the brand continues to go from strength to strength. Bringing in the expertise of Bulldog, we have an ambitious licensing programme that is perfectly timed for our existing fanbase and a whole new generation of fans – and we’re thrilled to welcome these deals with two leaders in their fields”.

Bulldog MD Rob Corney adds: “Mr Bean has been enormously popular from his very first appearance in 1990 to the present day and this high level of awareness will drive an expanded licensing campaign that will be very popular with consumers of all ages. Whitehouse Leisure and Posh Paws International have been quick to build on the brand’s massive appeal and many other potential licensees are already showing a strong interest in this unique brand. We’re thrilled to be working with these leading names in toys and gifts and looking forward to bringing this classic character to many new categories”.

Heathside Trading and OddBalls join growing licensing programme for beloved brand

Leading licensing agency Bulldog Licensing, which represents Sesame Street in the UK on behalf of the global impact non-profit Sesame Workshop, has announced two new deals for the much-loved brand as Sesame Street continues to grow its presence on screen, on digital platforms and at UK retail.

Heathside Trading and OddBalls are the latest partners to join the fast-growing Sesame Street licensing campaign.

Heathside Trading, which specialises in branded toys and games, collectibles, drinkware and gifts, will be producing a wide range of Sesame Street gifts and novelties, including mini figures, 2D keychains, 3D bag clips, drinking bottles, bobblehead figures and die cast figures.

Aimed at children and parents, and multi-generational Sesame Street fans, the line will be launching at gift shops, toy shops and online, in a deal brokered on behalf of Heathside by Kirsty Guthrie of KJG Limited.

OddBalls, a major name in underwear design, sportswear, clothing and accessories, will be producing Sesame Street underwear and pyjamas for both children and adult fans.  The new range will be launching through multiple online outlets, including Amazon and myoddballs.com.

Both of these new lines will employ designs inspired by Sesame Street’s colourful characters, along with the brand’s positive messages about laughter and learning engaging fans of all ages while delivering on its mission to help children grow smarter, stronger and kinder.

Sesame Street is a key focus for Bulldog in the UK. Working on behalf of Sesame Workshop, the agency has announced numerous deals for Sesame Street as it continues to grow its presence at UK retail. These two latest deals, join Just Play’s master toy programme and a rapidly growing pre-school licensed product range at all major retailers. Sesame Street also has strong nostalgia appeal,  inspiring successful ranges of apparel, badges, embroidered patches and more.

This strong retail and licensing performance comes at a time when Sesame Street programming is enjoying a hugely successful and growing broadcast and digital reach on Amazon Kids+, Tiny Pop, Channel 5’s Milkshake! pre-school programming block, and a YouTube channel attracting an incredible 94 million annual views in the UK and Ireland, as well as a strong social media presence.

Max Nelson from Heathside Trading, says: “It’s amazing to think that four  generations have grown up with Sesame Street’s wonderful characters and positive messaging and that it continues to delight new fans. We’re thrilled to be part of the Sesame Street licensing programme and have no doubt that our range of brand-inspired gifts and novelties  will find a ready and enthusiastic reception from fans of all ages.”

Matthew Gibson, head of partnerships & licensing, OddBalls, says: “Laughter, learning, beloved characters and  iconic imagery are what Sesame Street has been about for over 50 years and still is about today. It’s an evergreen brand that always appeals. We’re thrilled and privileged to be bringing our expertise on apparel design and manufacture to this collaboration with Sesame Street.”

Bulldog MD Rob Corney adds: “So many licensees respect and admire the Sesame Street brand – most of them grew up with it and it’s now a hit with their kids! It’s no surprise that it has attracted such leaders in their fields as Heathside Trading and OddBalls, both of which have excelled themselves in bringing this loved and admired property to appealing ranges of gifts and apparel.”

Heathside Trading Ltd to develop mini-figures, keyrings, drinking bottles – and more!

Independent licensing agency Bulldog Licensing, which manages UK licensing for Care Bears™ on behalf of Cloudco Entertainment, the owner of the Care Bears franchise, has announced a major new deal for the much-loved property in the EMEA market.

Heathside Trading Ltd, which specialises in branded toys and games, collectibles, drinkware and gifts, will be offering a wide range of Care Bears toys, gifts and novelties, including mini figures, 2D keychains, 3D bag clips, drinking bottles, collectable chocolate, bobblehead figures and die cast figures.

Aimed primarily at the Kidult market, the line will be launching at gift shops, toy shops and online with a limited range in Q4 2024, full range Q1 2025.

The deal was brokered on behalf of Heathside by Kirsty Guthrie of KJG Limited.

Heathside Trading Ltd is an important addition to the Care Bears licensing programme, which is managed in the UK by Bulldog Licensing. It was founded in 2006 to specialise in the purchase and sale of branded merchandise of all descriptions. Today Heathside boasts a strong reputation for quality merchandise and distribution that has made it the preferred partner for many major brands across multiple product categories.

In fact Heathside’s major product categories include, but are not limited to, toys & games, homeware, stationery & books, and health & beauty products. The company has established access to markets in the UK, Europe, and further afield.

The new Care Bear lines will employ designs inspired by the iconic Care Bears rainbow colours and characters, along with the brand’s uplifting messages of love, caring and friendship, which resonate with fans worldwide.

Care Bears continues to show incredible growth more than forty years after the property first appeared on greetings cards and inspired a plush range. The brand has continued its upwards trajectory with further strong growth in 2024 and huge retail traction across multiple categories, ranging from plush through to apparel, accessories and homewares, making Care Bears one of the must-have brands in the UK for both its core market of young girls and a significant young adult market.

Max Nelson from Heathside Trading Ltd, says: “It’s been a real privilege to work with a brand that is known and loved by so many generations – and still attracting new fans: its characters and colourful designs are the perfect style inspiration for the toys and gifts we specialise in. We’re looking forward to a great response to this range from Care Bears fans of all ages”.

Charlotte Payne, Director of International Licensing from Cloudco Entertainment, says: “This is another big win for the Care Bears licensing programme: a range of appealing, fun products from a respected company in its field that perfectly captures the joy and vibrancy of the property. We’re delighted to be working with Heathside Trading”.

Bulldog MD Rob Corney adds: “Momentum behind the Care Bears brand just keeps ramping up! Heathside Trading has done a great job of bringing this positive, fun property to a diverse selection of toys and gifts with strong multi-generational appeal. I’m sure consumers – and retailers – will welcome these new ranges with enormous enthusiasm”.

Popular brand inspires fashionable footwear, umbrellas, jewellery, accessories and much more coming in 2024

Bulldog Licensing, one of the licensing industry’s leading agencies, has announced two new partners for the phenomenally successful Magic Mixies property from innovative toymaker Moose Toys.

William Lamb Group, a major name in footwear for over 130 years and an expert in design to delivery production is planning a range of footwear, bags, purses and accessories for the Magic Mixies brand. Launching initially with a retail exclusive bag in Spring 2024, the full range of products will be in development later in the year.

Additionally, Imagine8, which specialises in manufacturing licensed character merchandise and offers a comprehensive supply chain solution for the world’s leading children’s brands, will be developing Magic Mixies jewellery and accessories. They will be launching with a retail exclusive cap and sunglasses in Spring.

Both ranges will be aimed at the children’s and tweens’ market, making full use of the colourful characters, logos and imagery that have strengthened the success of the Magic Mixies brand in the toy and plush space.

Sandra Vanstan, head of licensing, William Lamb Group, said: “This innovative and colourful toy brand has clearly caught the imagination of kids everywhere and is perfectly positioned to bring its magic to many licensing categories, We’re enormously excited to be taking Magic Mixies into footwear, umbrellas and more in which we are certain the brand will enjoy even more success.”

Norman Thompson, managing director, Imagine8, said: “Bringing together the massive appeal of Magic Mixies with our own expertise in licensed character merchandise is a great opportunity to extend this popular property into new categories. Jewellery and accessories are perfect for Magic Mixies and we’re delighted to have been chosen to bring these key products to retail across the UK.”

Magic Mixies is also a hit on streaming services too. The Magic Mixies series, which Initially launched on YouTube and Kidoodle TV in May 2022,  followed by a global launch on Netflix in early 2023, is boosting an already phenomenally successful brand within and beyond the toy category that made it famous.

Nightwear from Aykroyds TDP, and publishing lines from Curious Universe appeared in 2023 and will soon be joined by insulated, reusable containers for healthy food and drink from DNC, a Bath Potion gift set and Popping Bath Crystals from Kokomo and, along with the new ranges from William Lamb Group and Imagine8.

Many more licensing extensions have been signed or on the way. Bulldog is in advanced discussions with several partners across secondary toy, arts and crafts and activity, publishing, home and further soft lines, with new announcements expected shortly.

Bulldog and Moose Toys are building on Magic Mixies’ astonishing strength at retail, which has shown incredible growth since it first launched, supported by a strong marketing support.

Rob Corney, managing director, Bulldog commented: “The phenomenal success of Magic Mixies continues, both for the retail property and for the growing number of licensing extensions it inspires through partnerships with leaders in their field like William Lamb and Imagine8. We’re thrilled to welcome these high-quality partners to a campaign that is getting more exciting by the day.”

Lucy Wynn-Jones, licensing director, Moose Toys, added: “These important additions to the licensing campaign fuel the growing popularity of the brand and fans’ desire to share their love of all things Magic Mixes.. With retail demand high, a hit streaming show and more licensee announcements on the way,  our partners continue to build on the momentum of Magic Mixies.”