Jazwares subsidiary Kellytoy has partnered with Sanrio to develop a new Hello Kitty and Friends Squishmallows squad, rolling out at retailers now. Fans will be able to get their hands on seven-inch, eight-inch, 12-inch, and 20-inch plush versions of the Hello Kitty characters, including Hello Kitty, Tuxedosam, My Melody, Pompompurin, Badtz-Maru, Chococat, and Keroppi. Kellytoy will offer various styles of the characters, such as Hello Kitty dressed as a flower, mermaid, or pineapple; or Pompompurin dressed as a burger or sundae.
Hello Kitty squads are available now at Claire’s and will hit shelves this month at Hallmark, TJX, Learning Express, Sav On Foods, London Drugs, Hot Topic, EB Games, Mr. Toys Toyworld, and Toymate. Five Below and Costco (U.S., Canada, Australia, UK, and France) will carry Hello Kitty collections starting in May 2021 as well as Sanrio.com.
“We know how much fans and collectors have been clamoring for a Hello Kitty and Squishmallows collaboration, so we’re excited to partner with the global icon to bring these characters to fans around the world,” said Kellytoy Co-President Jonathan Kelly.
“For over 60 years, Sanrio has been committed to spreading friendship and kindness through small gifts,” said Jill Koch, Sr. Vice President of Sales and Business Development at Sanrio, Inc. “Plush has always been a top category for Sanrio that ties back to our heritage. In partnering with Squishmallows, who also aims to fill hearts with love and affection, we are able to deliver new interpretations of our lovable characters as well as the exciting element of collectability.”
Hello Kitty and Friends join the the brand as it is growing in popularity on TikTok, with almost two billion organic video views on #Squishmallows and related video tags. Since their debut, more than 80 million Squishmallows have found homes with fans of all ages.