Copyrights nabs U.K. Seuss representation rights

Dr. Seuss Enterprises has appointed The Copyrights Group as its U.K. agent for the late author’s slate of literary properties. This month’s Brand Licensing London show is set to get a little more Seussian, with Copyrights showcasing the brand and lining up licensees for a summer/fall 2003 merch launch. Dr. Suess joins Copyrights’ growing portfolio of literary properties, which include Peter Rabbit, Fungus the Bogeyman and Maisy.

CPLG goes ga-ga over Arma’s costumed cuties

Copyright Promotions Licensing Group has been named European licensing agent for baby photographer Tom Arma. CPLG will create merch programs based on Arma’s series showing infants dressed in animal outfits for France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, the U.K. and Benelux. Arma is the author of 16 children’s books (including Animal Time! And Dress-Up Time!), which have collectively sold more than 1.5 million copies.

Granada revs up Engie Benjy merch program

Following the debut of its new preschool series Engie Benjy on CiTV last month, Granada Media has announced its starting lineup of merch partners. Among those gearing up for a Q4 2003 retail launch are Racing Champions International (diecast vehicles), Martin Yaffe (soft toys), Carlton Books, Portico Designs (cards and stationery), Dekkertoys (costumes), Redan (learning tapes), Somerbond (nightwear) and Tex UK (bed/bath textiles). Created by Cosgrove Hall producer Bridget Appleby and featuring the voice talents of U.K. TV duo Ant & Dec, Engie Benjy follows the adventures of an engine doctor and his vehicle team of Jollop and Dan the van.

Egmont gives Lizzie McGuire some TLC

Lizzie McGuire distributor and rights-holder Egmont Imagination has signed on London-based agent The Licensing Company (TLC) to manage the brand in the U.K. market. TLC is currently hunting for licensees in major categories including toys, fashion apparel and accessories. Egmont has also inked rep deals for Lizzie in France (RMP Licensing), Italy (DIC2) and Benelux (Telescreen) and was in the process of finalizing deals in Germany and Australia at press time.