Classic Media Inks New Tinga Tinga Tales Deals

LONDON: Classic Media has signed up a host of new licensees for its preschool brand Tinga Tinga Tales, which already features Bandai as master toy and Penguin as the global publishing partner.

Classic Media has signed a number of deals across all categories including William Lamb for footwear, Roy Lowe & Sons for socks and hosiery, VMC Accessories for dress up and accessories, Trademark Collections for bags, umbrellas and wallets), Zap for bedding and towels, Hall & Associates for health and beauty, MV Sport for bikes, trikes and scooters, Paul Lamond for boardgames and puzzles, Titan for a standalonem agazine, BBC Worldwide for the CBeebies Weekly and CBeebies Animals Magazine. These follow apparel deals with TDP & Aykroyds and Blues Clothing.

The series premiered on CBeebies in the U.K. in February. Penguin Group books will hit British shelves in May, with Bandai to follow with toys in September. All remaining product is currently in development and will launch at retail across the U.K. for Spring/Summer 2011.

Claire Shaw, VP of consumer products at Classic Media, commented: "We’re thrilled to announce a fantastic lineup of quality partners for Tinga Tinga Tales and are in the privileged position of being able to implement a strategic L&M prograe that will do this brand the justice it deserves. We’re very excited by the retail response to date and will continue to work together with our licensees to create synergy across the range and develop truly colourful, original and appealing products that reflect the vibrancy of this fantastic show."

The Tiger Aspect production, produced on location in Nairobi, was co-commissioned by CBeebies and Playhouse Disney in the U.S.