King Features Syndicate, a unit of Hearst and home to some of the world’s most popular entertainment characters, announces the appointment of a new international licensing agent in the United Kingdom and Ireland – Bulldog Licensing. Continuing King Features’ momentum throughout the region, Bulldog Licensing will expand the reach of the iconic characters Popeye, Betty Boop, Cuphead, Flash Gordon and The Phantom to fans across the U.K. and Ireland. The appointment follows the semi-retirement announcement of Allsorts Licensing, King Features’ long-term U.K. agent.
Bulldog Licensing will look to build upon the success of the established licensing program in the U.K. and Ireland, with representation for these classic characters across merchandising categories. The creative licensing agency, which is responsible for growing brands such as Sesame Street and Angry Birds across the U.K., will work with King Features to bring its portfolio of renowned characters to life through a variety of unique merchandise. The appointment of Bulldog Licensing comes at an exciting time for King Features as they continue to celebrate two brand anniversaries this year: Betty Boop’s 90th and Olive Oyl’s 100th.
“We’re extremely excited to have Bulldog Licensing onboard to represent our iconic characters in the U.K. and Ireland, and we expect great things to come for our brands,” said Carla Silva, vice president and general manager, global head of licensing, King Features. “But the appointment is bittersweet. John McInnerny of Allsorts has been a dedicated agent and friend to the King Features family for many, many years. He is extremely well respected across the industry and his great sense of humor endears him to everyone he meets. We regret that our working relationship has come to an end but wish him a very happy and restful semi-retirement. Looking toward the future, we are eager to explore the next era of merchandising and promotions in the territories with Bulldog Licensing, who is one of the leading agencies in Europe and an innovator in the field.”
“King Features owns one of the most iconic collections of character brands in the world and the team at Bulldog are incredibly excited to have the opportunity to continue their expansion in our home territory,” said Rob Corney, group managing director, Bulldog Licensing. “On a personal note, I would like to wish John McInnerny all the very best as he moves to semi-retirement. John has been a huge influence on the licensing market and has been someone who has provided untold help and advice to me over the years. To pick up his mantle is a great honor.”
The appointment of Bulldog Licensing in the U.K. and Ireland continues King Features’ global expansion strategy as it looks to extend its international reach with new licensing deals and product offerings. King Features has shown tremendous international growth in recent months with the appointment of agents across the world including MJA Licensing in France, CPLG in Germany, Black White Orange in India, Vertical Licensing in Brazil, as well as renewing its relationship with current agents around the world.