Business
DHX Media signs global toy partner for new Teletubbies
HALIFAX , Sept. 8, 2014 /CNW/ - DHX Media Ltd. ("DHX" or the "Company") (TSX: DHX), ...
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[{"type":"text","content":"\n\nHALIFAX, Sept. 8, 2014 /CNW/ - DHX Media Ltd. (\"DHX\" or the \"Company\") (TSX: DHX), a key player internationally in the creation of content for families and children, has appointed leading UK toy company Character Options as global master toy partner for the new series of Teletubbies. The deal was completed by DHX Brands, the company's dedicated brand and consumer products arm. \n\nCharacter Options will launch consumer products at retail in the UK in 2016, with other territories to follow. Core categories will be plush, plastics and bath toys.\n\nThe much-anticipated new 60-episode series of Teletubbies has been commissioned by the UK's CBeebies and is being produced by award-winning UK production company, Darrall Macqueen Ltd. It will feature the same well-loved characters but will bring a refreshed, contemporary look to one of the world's most well-known pre-school properties, ensuring that it is relevant for a new generation.\n\nDHX Brands EVP Peter Byrne says: \"Teletubbies is one of the most recognizable pre-school brands globally which we believe represents a remarkable consumer products opportunity. We're very excited to be partnering with Character Options, who have an incredible track record in building and nurturing pre-school brands for the long term.\"\n\nTeletubbies was launched in March 1997 and became one of the most successful global children's brands of all time. The original episodes have aired in more than 120 territories in 45 languages, and it was the very first western pre-school property to air on China's CCTV. Its enduring resonance with children is further underscored by the brand's postings on YouTube, which garnered more than 40 million views per month through the first half of 2014.                                                     \n\nTeletubbies was named this as one of the Best Children's TV Programmes of the last 50 years, voted for by a panel of 100 international kids' television experts. Winning in the \"most risk-taking kids' entertainment programme\" category at Prix Jeunesse International, the awards honoure...