NEWS Doc stock shock
Sales of Doc McStuffins toys “on fire” as supplier Flair is working hard to get more product on shelves by Dominic Sacco
DISNEY’S DOC McStuffins toys are a sell-out. Supplier Flair says it is
experiencing stronger than expected UK sales, and it is working closely with US partner Just Play to keep stock in the channel. “Doc is really selling well and is a great hit in our portfolio with fantastic results that have echoed the launch success in the US,” Flair’s marketing director Nic Aldridge told ToyNews. “I think we all knew that
this property was going to be successful, but it is fair to say that the extent
of that success has caught everyone a little by surprise. “The current stock situation is definitely tight and this is quite simply because in every territory Doc has launched so far, the brand has been such a big hit. The US launched back in October and had a sell-out situation and we’re experiencing the same effect at the moment. We have plenty of stock coming, but each time it hits our warehouse, its allocated and out again. “As with all of our launches we always strive to fairly distribute the product that we have in
stock. We are also working very closely with our partner, Just Play, to minimise the downtime. “Doc McStuffins however, is a sales phenomenon, so each time we think we are getting on top of the demand, the sales increase and the supply issues arise,” Aldridge continued. Flair expects the Doctors Bag Set (pictured)to be a “huge hit” between now and Christmas. As the best seller in the range, it is forecasted to shift over 200,000 units. Other toys include The Check Up Centre, the Time for a Check Up doll which has its own heartbeat), other
interactive plush, a dress up set and more.
The Entertainer’s Buying
Director Stuart Grant said sales were “on fire”. “We haven’t had a red
hot pre-school licence since In The Night Garden,” he added. “We cannot keep Doc McStuffins on the shelf.” Flair: 020 8643 0320
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New partners line up for Something Special Fresh Golden Bear ranges to hit stores in August Egmont picks up master publishing licence for brand
By Samantha Loveday
NEW PUBLISHING, seasonal confectionery and electronic learning partners have been secured for pre- school hit Something Special, BBC Worldwide has confirmed.
The popular Cbeebies
show stars Justin Fletcher and his alter ego, Mr Tumble, and encourages children to explore the world around them. New ranges from master
toy licensee Golden Bear will hit stores in August, following a successful soft
IN BRIEF
EVENTS MANAGER BOOSTS RAINBOW PRODUCTIONS Mascot costumes manufacturer and children’s character events firm, Rainbow Productions has hired a new events manager. Amy Gregitis will focus on the licensed character events side of the business. She has worked on events including London 2012. Rainbow Productions: 020 8254 5300
38 May
CORPORATE REBRANDING FOR GEMMA
Gemma International has shortened its trading name to Gemma, following a corporate rebranding. The logo has been streamlined to reflect the greeting firm’s vision for the future. The firm holds over 30 licences including Hello Kitty, Disney, Thomas, Ben 10, Mr Men and Moshi Monsters. Gemma: 01264 388400
NEW TOY LICENSING CONSULTANCY LAUNCHES AT New Media and Virtual World Licensing have joined forces to offer services to gaming, social and virtual brands looking to enter the toy licensing space. It will first manage the brand licensing roadmap for digital brands, ensuring they are ready for licensing.
www.virtualworld
licensing.com
STAR CUTOUTS UPS DOCTOR WHO MASK RANGE Life-size character cutout and celebrity face mask firm, Star Cutouts has increased its range of Doctor Who products. It has launched new Classic cutouts and masks to coincide with the brand’s 50th anniversary. Other new lines will include the new companion. Star Cutouts: 0161 344 5839
MIKE THE KNIGHT SECURES SECOND SEASON Pre-school favourite Mike the Knighthas been signed for a second season. The series will be produced jointly by Hit Entertainment in the UK and Nelvana Studio in Canada. Cbeebies has already committed to air the second series in the UK, which will begin from the summer.
Hit: 020 7554 2500
www.toynews-online.biz
launch in selected retailers last autumn. Additions to the range
will include the Something Special Mr Tumble 3D Backpack and Aunt Polly’s Tea Party Puzzle. Meanwhile, Egmont has
been awarded the master publishing licence and will roll out five titles in August: an annual, two novelty books and two activity titles. “We know how much children love learning the songs and actions and in the vein of the show, our publishing will feature lots of
repetition, rhyming, colourful illustrations and visual Makaton signs where appropriate,” said Sarah Bates, publishing director at Egmont Publishing Group. “We also know how much children love Mr Tumble, so he will feature prominently throughout the publishing range.” Kinnerton will produce seasonal confectionery – including advent calendars and Easter eggs – and Inspirationworks will launch electronic learning aids, including Mr Tumble’s Tablet in autumn/winter.
“We always knew that the show, and Justin’s popularity, would mean that product extensions were going to be a hit with pre-schoolers, but we were delighted with the response,” commented Julie Kekwick, senior licensing manager at BBC Worldwide. “Now we’re pleased to be able to announce new licensees. “We’re also really looking
forward to Golden Bear’s new and exciting ranges,” Kekwick continued. BBC Worldwide: 020 7612 3000
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