The Puppy in my Pocket franchise is set to grow with a new TV series, licensees and head of sales to lead international distribution.

El Segundo, California-based IP company MEG has announced plans to expand the In My Pocket franchise following the introduction of Puppy in my Pocket: Adventures in Pocketville at MIPTV last week. The new HD animated series (52 x 13-minutes) will debut late this year in Italy and will roll out globally in 2011. Mondo TV Group has secured a series of broadcast commitments around the world, and presales have been negotiated throughout Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Inspired by the In My Pocket franchise created by MEG in the early ’90s, the brand has been licensed worldwide with toy distribution partners in more than 50 countries. Giochi Preziosi, co-producer of the series, distributes the In My Pocket brand in Europe. In Italy, where the toys are marketed as Cuccioli Cerca Amici, pastry decorator Modecor Group has signed on to create a Puppy in my Pocket-themed pastry line, with Puppy-inspired wafers, 3-D sugar and jelly decorations and chocolates.

MEG and Giochi Preziosi will coordinate and manage the series’ licensing program. Giochi Preziosi will manage Europe (excluding the U.K.), while MEG, in conjunction with its merchandising agent Licensing Works, will oversee the other territories. Current Puppy In My Pocket licensees include newly signed Scholastic Books, Bakery Craft, NTD, Senario, Cadaco, Wiesner and Redan.

On the sales front, Patrick Enright has been hired to lead the MEG sales organization as it transitions from the distribution arrangement with Jakks that expires at the end of this year. Enright joins MEG from plush manufacturer and Disney licensee Dream International, where he served as VP of sales and marketing.