New Seasons of Octonauts: Above & Beyond Lift Off on CBeebies

Sony Pictures Television – Kids (SPT – Kids), announces that the BBC has acquired the UK rights to the latest season of Octonauts spin-off series, Octonauts: Above & Beyond. The deal will see the new 52 x 11’ episodes available on CBeebies and BBC iplayer from 16th October 2023 bringing new adventures for the beloved Octonauts as they continue to explore dynamic landscapes, experience new climates, rescue animals and protect the land they live on.

Nelvana Secures Distribution Deals for Highly Anticipated Preschool Series Millie Magnificent

Corus Entertainment’s Nelvana, a world-leading international producer, distributor and licensor of children’s animated and live action content, announces two new distribution partners for its new 3D animated original series Millie Magnificent (52×11) to Canal+ in France and Treehouse in Canada. With deliveries starting early 2024, the endearing preschool series will be prominently featured by Nelvana at MIPCOM this fall.  Kids Can Press, Corus Entertainment’s award-winning, internationally acclaimed children’s book publisher, has further expanded the Most Magnificent franchise with the new book The Most Magnificent Maker’s A to Z and the Make That Most Magnificent Thing board game, produced in collaboration with Fat Brain Toys, both launching this fall.

Moosh-Moosh Kicks off the Holidays with Spooktacular Offerings

Before you buy the Halloween candy, get the slippers! Moosh-Moosh, makers of soft plushy toys and accessories, has an entire collection of not-too-spooky themed Slipperz, nine Halloween Pillows, six cuddly Starlight Buddies, and nine Plushies. The spooktacular assortment, available now at moosh-moosh.com, lets kids (and grownups) know the unofficial start of autumn has arrived. As its online warehouse is being stocked with friendly vampire slippers, witch-y sleep pillows and a Starlight Buddy devil with candy-corn horns, parents and grandparents may be asking, what’s a moosh-moosh? Sean Price, Executive VP, Chief Marketing Officer of parent brand MMG Brands has the answer. “Moosh-Moosh is your ultimate cuddly companion designed to bring joy and comfort wherever they go, serving as a cozy pillow pal, a bedtime buddy, or simply a delightful plush friend to share your day with. From plush slippers to cuddle buddies, we have something soft and friendly for everyone.”

Contemporary Artist J. Pierce to Launch New Consumer Products for 2024

Fans of J Pierce have always admired his unique art style and the positive feelings his art evokes. J Pierce’s vibrant universe will be introduced into several new consumer product categories, strategic partnerships and retail collaborations beginning in 2024. The new program will also include a charitable alliance with LRG Giving Tree, with a percentage of royalties to be donated annually. “We are very grateful for the opportunity to align with Justin and his partners to utilize a charitable portion of their royalties towards building wellness rooms for underserved youth in foster care and school settings,” says Eunnie Hur, executive director, LRG Giving Tree.

Universal Products & Experiences Adds PUMA to Best-in-Class Partners for Trolls BandTogether

Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E) proves that all that glitters is Trolls as partners from across the globe band together for the launch of new consumer products in celebration of the newest chapter in DreamWorks Animation’s blockbuster musical franchise, Trolls Band Together. PUMA, one of the world’s leading sports brands, is the latest partner to join the technicolor line-up with the exclusive PUMA x Trolls collection of footwear, apparel and accessories set to launch in early 2024. DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls Band Together premieres in cinemas worldwide from 20th October 2023 supported by a multi-category licensing programme that is set to sparkle at retail this holiday season and beyond.

Scoobtober Extravaganza Unleashed in EMEA

Hold onto your magnifying glasses and get ready to join the grooviest celebration of the year! Scoobtober is the annual month-long extravaganza and thrill ride through the world of Scooby-Doo, bringing fans a tidal wave of programming, products and events across all of Warner Bros. Discovery. Originally launched in the US, it is now a firm fixture in the seasonal calendar with an ever growing list of activations that include spooky social clips and crossovers, 48-hour Watch Party live stream of content with links to exclusive Scooby product from best-in-class partners such as Playmobil, Plastoys and Funko. In line with the growth of Halloween in Europe, Scoobtober is gaining momentum in the EMEA region, led in 2023 by the strongest ever slate of Scooby-Doo content programming for the initiative in this market.

MGA Entertainment Initiates Merger with Zapf Creation AG

MGA Entertainment, Inc (MGA), one of the world’s largest and fastest growing privately held toy and entertainment companies, announced that it intends to merge with Zapf Creation AG, Europe’s leading manufacturer of nurturing dolls. Specifically, MGA’s wholly-owned German subsidiary, which is the current direct major shareholder of Zapf Creation AG, has approached Zapf with an invitation to enter into negotiations of a merger agreement. MGA and Zapf Creation AG have had a collaborative business relationship for the sales and distribution of both companies’ brands for nearly 20 years. The merger is expected to close in Spring 2024.

The Significance of Toy Packaging Design

Toy packaging is the bridge between the product and the consumer. It’s the first interaction a potential buyer has with a toy, and as the saying goes, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” An effective toy package has the power to:

1. Create Anticipation: Engaging packaging triggers a sense of curiosity and excitement, making children eager to unwrap and explore the toy.
2. Convey Brand Identity: Packaging is an extension of a brand’s personality. Consistent design elements help establish brand recognition and trust.

Spin Master Launches New Preschool App Subscription Service Piknik

Spin Master , a leading global children’s entertainment company, announced the launch of Piknik, a new app subscription service for preschoolers featuring games from award-winning digital studios Toca Boca and Sago Mini. Included in the Piknik subscription bundle is unlimited access to Toca Boca Jr – a new collection of fan-favorite Toca Boca apps including Toca Kitchen 2TM, Toca NatureTM, Toca Lab: Elements, Toca Builders, Toca Pet Doctor, and Toca Lab: Plants, with more on the way – in addition to Toca Boca Hair Salon 4, Sago Mini World, Sago Mini School, and Sago Mini First Words – all for just $11.99 USD per month. Piknik is available globally, today at www.playpiknik.com or within any of the included apps on the Apple App store or Google Play store.