MD Licensing to Rep Paddington Bear in Italy

LONDON: The Copyrights Group has tapped Maurizio Distefano the Evolution of Licensing (MD Licensing) to represent the popular brand Paddington Bear in Italy.

MD Licensing is planning a wide-ranging licensing campaign spanning toys, gifts, games, confectionery, plush and more. Paddington Bear has been featured in a number of books and TV adaptations. The first full-length film based on the property hit theaters in November 2014. A second movie, starring Hugh Grant and Brendan Gleeson, is slated for release in December 2017.

Maurizio Distefano, the president of MD Licensing, said: “Paddington is a much-loved children’s brand whose many fans worldwide love his friendly manner and adventures. With the film sequel on its way, we expect brand awareness to be stronger than ever in the Italian market in the coming year and the Paddington brand to be more successful than ever among licensees and at retail.”

Polly Emery, the brand and marketing director at The Copyrights Group, added: “We are thrilled to be partnering with MD Licensing to build the Paddington brand in Italy. Together with publishing partner Mondadori and Eagle, who will be distributing the Paddington movie, we are looking forward to seeing exciting activity for Paddington in Italy.”