Disney inks multi-year licensing deal with Lego

Disney inks multi-year licensing deal with Lego

MUMBAI: Disney Consumer Products, the merchandising arm of Walt Disney, has signed a multi-year licensing agreement with the toy manufecturer Lego Group.

With the deal in place, Lego will get access to the portfolio of Disney and Disney Pixar properties. Lego has started working on the development of three franchises - Toy Story, Cars and Prince of Persia. All are scheduled to launch in 2010.

Lego Group CEO Jorgen Vig Knudstorp said, "When two brands who share similar values bring their franchises together and combine their access to families, retail strength and marketing power, amazing things can happen. We can‘t wait to launch the first three lines and look forward to exploring all of the ways in which we bring the wonderful world of Disney to life in Lego form."

"Joining forces with Lego Group speaks to the commitment and vision both companies share for quality product and innovative creativity that invigorates kids play," added DCP SVP global toys Vince Klaseus. "Through these new Lego product lines, Disney will continue to build presence in the construction toys category and grow market share in the boys demographic."

Toy Story-themed construction sets will be available on both Lego Duplo and Lego System platforms for children aged 2-12. Lego System products based on Toy Story and Toy Story 2 will launch in January 2010, to be followed in May by construction sets based on the new animated feature. Toy Story 3 is scheduled to hit the theatres in Disney Digital 3D by June 2010.

Cars-themed Lego Duplo products are scheduled to launch in June 2010, while Prince of Persia-themed Lego products are scheduled to launch in April 2010.