eOne Expands Peppa Pig’s Presence in France

LONDON: Entertainment One (eOne) has unveiled new developments across broadcast and licensing for the hit preschool property Peppa Pig in France.

Peppa Pig consumer products, which launched in France last year, are slated to enter the country's mass-market retail sector, with merchandise becoming available in such retail stores as Carrefour and all mass-market food chains, in addition to Toys "R" Us, La Grande Recre and Joué Club. The licensing program currently comprises more than 35 licensees, including Giochi Preziosi as master toy partner, Diset for board games and Taldec for computer games. Hachette Jeunesse, the brand's publishing partner, introduced a line of story, activity and coloring books, in addition to stationery, earlier this year. Cijep is on board for plush, accessories and furniture. Other partners have signed on for magazine, apparel and accessories, homeware, partyware, toiletries, confectionary and food. These licensees will begin rolling out with full listings next year.

Meanwhile, the Peppa Pig TV series has had a strong broadcast presence on France 4 and France 5, where multiple episodes air back-to-back each day. eOne is also working with France TV Distribution and U.K. partner Fiery Angel to bring the popular live stage show Peppa Pig's Big Splash to audiences in France, where local production will be handled by Decibels Productions. A nationwide tour is set to kick off in late 2016, with a premiere planned for Paris; the show will then roll out into additional cities the following year.

Ami Dieckman, the head of international licensing at eOne, commented: "Initial sales of Peppa licensed merchandise have surpassed the expectations of retailers in France and with the added exposure of France 4 and France 5's daily broadcasts and the upcoming live show, it's clear that the time is right to bring the brand to the mass market."