Global independent animation studio ZAG in conjunction with local licensing partners Novabrink and Xalingo have unveiled the first Ghostforce toy products at ABRIN in Sao Paulo, Brazil, the largest event in the toy sector across Latin America.
ZAG is most well-known for mega hit global brand Miraculous – Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir, and Ghostforce; and the company is in production on Melody, an animated feature starring singer, songwriter and actress, Katy Perry. Several additional new IPs are also in development.
Ghostforce (52 x 11’) is an original comedy/action series for kids and families that follows three junior high school students who form a secret team to defend their city from the ghastly ghouls haunting it. The series premiered in Latin America on Discovery Kids on December 6th, 2021, except for Brazil, where it premiered on May 6, 2022, with fantastic ratings. Additionally, Ghostforce will soon be available on terrestrial TV in Brazil.
At ABRIN, Novabrink, a strategic partner for ZAG in the region, presented costumed 18-inch figurines of the Ghostforce heroes and villains. Novabrink is also the costume licensee for the brand. In addition, Xalingo, a premier developer of products and toys that help children’s social and intellectual development, unveiled their line-up of Ghostforce branded products made from wood including board games, jigsaw puzzles, activity sets, coloring activities, memory games and dominoes. Products will launch in Brazil in time for Halloween 2023.
The new product lines will complement the toys to be launched in 2024 by global master toy partner, Playmates Toys, that will feature figurines of the major heroes and a collection of boo capsules that will play on the collectivity of the ghosts.
“ABRIN is such an important market for toy manufacturers to present their new products to retailers across Brazil, and it’s a fabulous opportunity to showcase our new Ghostforce products from Novabrink and Xalingo, and increase awareness for the brand,” commented Angela Cortez, VP, Licensing, Brazil, and Canada, ZAG. “With its stunning visuals, great costumes, iconic bad guys, and extended storylines, Ghostforce has charmed Brazilian audiences who have fully embraced the series.”
Additional licensing partners on board for Ghostforce include Dermiwil for luggage, backpacks, and lunch boxes; View Cosmeticos for personal care items; Lolla Sorvestes for ice cream; and C & E for experiences.
In the global market, Ghostforce has launched in most European countries becoming the market leader in various kids’ target groups, with single airings reaching up to 40.9% share among all kids ages 3-14 and 51.2% among kids 6-9! In France, where the series debuted on TF1 in August 2021, Ghostforce achieved an audience share of over 35%. In the U.S., Ghostforce is available on Disney XD. The series is also available across Japan, India, CIS, and the Middle East on Disney Channel.
ZAG’s licensing and merchandising, gaming, promotions and toy groups are helmed by Julian Jacob ZAG, EVP, Global Operations and Head of Consumer Products, which focus on developing products and experiences beyond the screen into brands that inspire the new generation to discover their true character.