9 Story Signs Licensees for Almost Naked Animals

TORONTO: 9 Story Entertainment has signed license agreements with Freeze, a division of Central Mills, and ABG Accessories for product lines for the kids’ series Almost Naked Animals.

Freeze has secured rights for apparel, while ABG has secured the rights for cold-weather accessories, headwear and rainwear for the U.S. market. Both plan to launch in 2012.

The animated comedy series is produced by 9 Story Entertainment and launched on Cartoon Network in June. It is based on the designs of books illustrator Noah Z. Jones. Almost Naked Animals features underwear-clad animals that run a beachfront resort hotel.

Natalie Osborne, the executive VP of business development for 9 Story Entertainment, said: “Almost Naked Animals is a property with such strong character designs that people laugh out loud on first sight. It’s not surprising that our first license agreements are from the fashion industry. We are thrilled to have these successful licensees, who are leaders within their respective product categories, jump onboard!”

Kim Cauley, the VP of licensing at Freeze, added, “We loved Almost Naked Animals immediately. The designs are so funny and original that they could stand on their own. The great TV exposure is really gravy!”

Michael Brett, the president of ABG Accessories, added: “When we returned from the Licensing Expo, it was unanimous amongst my creative design team that we should secure the rights to Almost Naked Animals. It’s rare to get that kind of support and enthusiasm so early in the process. We’re excited!”