Mookie Toys to produce The Gruffalo and Friends toys

The UK-based toyco has inked a licensing deal with Magic Light Pictures to design, manufacture and distribute a range of wooden Gruffalo playthings to retailers in August. Initial SKUs include a blackboard, drawing slate and cut-out figures all featuring the characters and art style of the iconic British picture books. 

Goliath acquires its own putty and slime brand

After becoming its exclusive European distributor last year, Goliath has decided to acquire sensory putty brand Crazy Aaron’s for an undisclosed amount. Crazy Aaron’s will continue to operate and produce new putty products independently after the sale closes, but it will also collaborate closely with Goliath as the brand scales up and enters new markets. 

Simple Modern renews its Sesame Street license

The Oklahoma-based lifestyle goods manufacturer will continue to work with Sesame Workshop to produce drinkware, backpacks and lunch bags featuring iconic Sesame Street characters for an additional three years. The new agreement also expands distribution of the collection into European markets, which Simple Modern will kick off with an EU e-commerce launch later in Q1. 

Trends UK to rep sales for Stor

The Spanish homewares company has named Trends UK as its exclusive distributor in the UK, where it will enter the market with a retail launch planned in late spring. Stor produces several licensed ranges of homewares and tableware for kids and families, featuring brands including Bluey, Pokémon, Minecraft, Lilo & Stitch and KPop Demon Hunters.