CARTOON NETWORK Cartoon Network’s fresh take on Ben 10 will center on a new animated series that re-introduces an energetic and fun-loving 10-year-old named Ben Tennyson. The series will kick off with the adventures of Ben, his cousin Gwen, and Grandpa Max as they travel the country during summer vacation. Playmates Toys will anchor the brand’s consumer products program, and serve as the master toy partner with a line of figures, play sets, and roleplay items slated to launch worldwide next fall. Cartoon Network launched products around the new The Powerpuff Girls series this year, with global master toy partner Spin Master releasing toys in key markets starting this fall. Recently green lit for a fifth season, Steven Universe tells the story of Steven—the proverbial “little brother” to the Crystal Gems—and three magical defenders that form a team to guard humanity. USAopoly signed on for games and puzzles, while Rubie’s Costume Co. and Funko will offer seasonal costumes and novelty toys, respectively. The Adventure Time series has more than 100 licensees globally, and has products in all categories and all channels of distribution. Jazwares is The Powerpuff Girls signed on to produce action figures, role-play, and plush toys, while Rubie’s is signed on for seasonal costumes for kids and adults. The 30-minute animated series Rick and Morty follows a sociopathic genius scientist who drags his timid grandson on dangerous adventures across the universe. The consumer launch will focus on buzz-building collaborations to create limited-edition products for fans, and a broader program for wider distribution at specialty.
MOOSE TOYS
Shoppies
90 THE TOY BOOK | MAY/JUNE 2016 | TOYBOOK.COM
Moose Toys will launch a licensing program for its doll line, Shoppies, separate from the Shopkins merchandise program. New licensees for Shoppies include The Bridge Direct for construction toys and Disguise for Halloween costumes. The Licensing Shop will represent Shoppies in addition to Shopkins. Shoppies dolls launched last October, and the line expanded earlier this year. The line includes characters such as Jessicake, Popette, Bubbleisha, and Peppa-Mint. Featured webisodes and other entertainment will be announced shortly. The Shopkins U.S. licensed merchandise program is on track to reach $250 million in retail sales this year. New licensees on board include KOBA for live entertainment, Kurt S. Adler for holiday ornaments and décor, Pangea Brands for small electric appliances and cook/bake ware, and Wonder Forge for games.