New York-based video distribution company The Orchard has inked North American and UK deals with Mercis, 6Sales and licensing agent Big Tent Entertainment for the new full-length feature film Miffy The Movie, including theatrical, VOD and DVD distribution rights. The launch of a Miffy YouTube channel is also part of the package.

Through the partnership, Orchard will develop and operate a new English-language Miffy YouTube channel that includes the entire run of preschool series Miffy and Friends, along with music and other branded content. Distribution plans for the film will be announced early next year.

Produced by Telescreen Filmproducties and distributed by 6Sales, Miffy The Movie is a 70-minute animated feature that stars the famous Dutch rabbit. Netherlands-based Mercis owns the copyright to Miffy and Friends and is the brand’s worldwide licensor.

The Orchard’s current YouTube Multi Channel Network, ranked sixth in the US and seventh in the world based on unique viewers (ComScore), will soon include The Orchard’s own children’s channel, PlumTum.