By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief A report from NPD Group shows growth in the North American toy sector has stalled, after two record breaking years. “After three record-breaking years for the toy industry, 2022 was a challenging year. U.S. consumers were forced to endure significant economic headwinds stemming from inflation and adverse macroeconomic factors,” said … [Read more...] about North American Toy Revenue Flatlined in 2022
Canada
Music Licensing: Is Justin Bieber’s Catalog Worth More Than $200 Million?
Data From Spotify Says Yes By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief (Photo of Justin Bieber by Budiey) Justin Bieber has agreed to sell his entire music catalog to Hipgnosis Songs Capital for more than $200 million. Hipgnosis announced the deal via press release, saying it has acquired “Justin Bieber’s 100% interest in his Publishing Copyrights (including the Writer’s Share … [Read more...] about Music Licensing: Is Justin Bieber’s Catalog Worth More Than $200 Million?
King Features Scores With PUCK HCKY Popeye Apparel Partnership
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter King Features Syndicate and PUCK HCKY have entered a licensing partnership for a collection of hockey-themed Popeye apparel. The Popeye entertainment franchise is owned by the international production and distribution company, King Features. A division of Hearst Newspapers, King Features Syndicate specializes in content syndication, … [Read more...] about King Features Scores With PUCK HCKY Popeye Apparel Partnership
Chefclub Signs Five New Licenses For Cooking Themed Toys
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The food-themed content studio Chefclub has secured five new toy distribution partnerships with White Knight Toys, Autruche, Hutter Trade, JPM Toys, and CMC Global. The companies will be the exclusive domestic licensing agents for Chefclub’s line of kid-focused cooking utensils in their respective regions. White Knight Toys will be … [Read more...] about Chefclub Signs Five New Licenses For Cooking Themed Toys
Spin Master Goes High Tech With Acquisition of HEXBUG
by Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Spin Master has reached a licensing agreement with Innovation First International to acquire the company's robotic toy brand HEXBUG. Innovation First International is a privately-held corporation that manufactures and produces robotic products for the consumer, education, and business-to-business markets. "At Spin Master we are … [Read more...] about Spin Master Goes High Tech With Acquisition of HEXBUG
Sony Partners With Canada’s Crave, Paramount+ Expands in Europe
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief There were two major offensives in the global streaming wars, as both Sony Pictures and Paramount+ moved to secure international audiences. Sony Pictures and Canadian streamer Crave announced a long-term and exclusive Pay-One window licensing agreement for theatrical feature films. The deal gives Crave first pay window rights to new and … [Read more...] about Sony Partners With Canada’s Crave, Paramount+ Expands in Europe
MINI USA and ICECREAM Collection Aims at Saving Polar Bears
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The quintissentially British car brand MINI is working with the streetwear brand ICECREAM on a new collection focused on its new MINI SE Electric car. The partners are also dedicating proceeds from sales of the collection to Polar Bears International, and their education and outreach efforts dedicated to informing, inspiring, and providing … [Read more...] about MINI USA and ICECREAM Collection Aims at Saving Polar Bears
Experiential Licensing: Grand Opening Extravaganza is Scheduled for Hasbro’s Galaxyland
By Allison WatkinsonTLL Reporter The week-long Grand Opening ceremony for Galaxyland Powered by Hasbro at the West Edmonton Mall is set to begin on Dec. 17, 2022. West Edmonton Mall is a Canadian mixed-use entertainment and retail complex that is home to more than 800 stores and services. The upcoming event will celebrate the completion of the first phase of … [Read more...] about Experiential Licensing: Grand Opening Extravaganza is Scheduled for Hasbro’s Galaxyland
Ukraine’s Brave Bunnies Defy Russian Invaders, With Help From WildBrain
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The people of Ukraine have been redefining the definition of courage and perseverance under the most extreme adversity. Now, the aptly named pre-school series Brave Bunnies is going back into production with the help of Wildbrain. The global kids and family entertainment company has partnered with Ukrainian kids’ producer Glowberry … [Read more...] about Ukraine’s Brave Bunnies Defy Russian Invaders, With Help From WildBrain
Spin Master Puts the Pieces Together To Acquire Puzzle Company
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Spin Master has reached an agreement to acquire the Canadian-based puzzle company, 4D Brands International. "As part of our long-term growth strategy, we're focused on finding new, pathbreaking acquisitions that will further expand our presence in key categories of play, as well as expanding our reach and connection with consumers," said … [Read more...] about Spin Master Puts the Pieces Together To Acquire Puzzle Company