Cartoon Network Inks New Merchandising Deal for Foster's

August 8, 2007 World Screen

NEW YORK, August 8: Cartoon Network Enterprises, the global
branding and merchandising arm of Cartoon Network, has reached a two-year deal
with E.S. Originals for a range of products, including bags, shoes and watches,
based on the Emmy Award-winning original series Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends.

The product line from E.S. Originals will launch this fall
in the U.S., beginning with the rollout of slippers at the fashion retailer Hot
Topic. E.S. Originals joins other Cartoon Network Enterprises merchandising
partners such as Franco Manufacturing, who created Foster’s bedding, slumber bags, pillows, bath accessories and
beach towels; Logotel and Mighty Fine, who developed custom Foster’s tees; and H.E.R. Accessories, who featured custom
jewelry and a range of accessories.

The new merchandising deal is part of a 360-degree marketing
plan that includes programming highlights, promotions, new media, consumer
products and gaming. Some of the highlights for this year include Foster’s
Home for Imaginary Friends: Imagination Invaders, a video game developed by Midway; a new toy line from Mattel; a first
season DVD which debuted in March; a continuing online game Big Fat
Awesome House Party; and featured voices on
Cartoon Network’s “CallToons”—ring tones for cellular phones announced
earlier this year.

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Created by Craig McCracken, who was also responsible for the
Cartoon Network’s The Powerpuff Girls, Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends can be seen Monday through Friday at 9 a.m. on the
network. The series follows the adventures of a group of imaginary friends who
have been outgrown by their creators and the humans who care for them.

“We know the Foster’s
fan base is always looking for new fun ways to express their affinity, and our
creative line with E.S. Originals increases our ability to deliver to that
group,” said Christina Miller, the VP of consumer products for Cartoon Network
Enterprises. “Through these types of collaborations, we continue to offer the
fans the opportunity to spend more time with their favorite friends, Mac, Bloo
and the gang.”