Rocket Licensing has signed a deal to manage the consumer products programme for new stop motion animation, award-winning series Kiri and Lou. The series, centered around two little prehistoric creatures, was launched in New Zealand, Canada and Australia and now airs weekdays on CBeebies in the UK.
Launched in the UK on April 27th, 2020, this delightful series has had a strong initial reception and during its first week, Kiri and Lou was the most requested CBeebies brand. In 4 weeks, Kiri and Lou has achieved over 2 million requests on iPlayer. New episodes are premiering on the 8th of June, and a free Kiri and Lou Hide and Seek app is now available to download from the App Store and Google Play.
Written and directed by prominent New Zealand writer, actor, musician and director, Harry Sinclair, the series also features original songs co-written for each episode with well-known NZ musician, Don McGlashan. A Kiri and Lou album will be released later this month. The loveable characters are also voiced by famous names, including Jemaine Clement (Flight of the Conchords) as Lou.
Rocket will manage the licensing rights in the UK and Eire and will be discussing the exciting new brand with potential partners in a wide range of categories, including toys and games, stationery, publishing, homewares, apparel, accessories, food and drink, educational tools, partyware and digital. Rocket also sees great potential to explore options for sustainable and environmentally conscious products and partnerships, in keeping with the brand’s core values and messaging.
Charlie Donaldson, Joint MD, Rocket Licensing, said, “Kiri and Lou bring something completely fresh to the preschool sector. The animation employs a traditional stop motion animation technique, which brings not only a different look, but a different pace to the screen and enables fully developed characters, environment and stories.”
“The brand is the perfect mixture of a calm and gentle approach to exploring personal and social education for young children, with fun, laughter and adventure. The rich design and writing offer a huge scope for licensed products,” Donaldson added.
Fiona Copland, CEO and Producer at Stretchy, stated, “We are delighted to partner with Rocket Licensing for the UK and Eire. They share the values of this brand and bring a wealth of experience working with high-quality IP that is beloved across the UK.”
Collectibles brand Funko has announced the addition of new Pop! figures inspired by the popular titles Obsession and Off Campus, expanding its portfolio of entertainment and literary collectibles.
As part of the latest release, Funko is introducing POP! Nikki, based on the viral character from Obsession. The collectible is now available for pre-order through the company's official website.
The company has also unveiled a new Off Campus Pop! collection, featuring characters from Elle Kennedy's bestselling romance series. The lineup includes Allie Hayes, Dean Di Laurentis, Garrett Graham and Hannah Wells, bringing some of the franchise's best-known characters into Funko's signature Pop! format.
Designed for fans and collectors, the new figures recreate the characters with the brand's distinctive stylised design while celebrating the growing popularity of both Obsession and Off Campus.
The new releases reflect Funko's continued strategy of expanding its portfolio through partnerships with popular entertainment and literary franchises. By introducing collectibles based on well-known books and fictional characters, the company continues to strengthen its presence among readers, pop culture enthusiasts, and memorabilia collectors.
Both the POP! Nikki figure from Obsession and the Off Campus character collection are now available for pre-order on Funko's official website. The latest additions further broaden the brand's catalogue of licensed collectibles, giving fans new ways to celebrate two of the most talked-about titles in contemporary fiction.
The LEGO Group has introduced the LEGO Icons SpongeBob SquarePants: Bikini Bottom building set, its first SpongeBob SquarePants-themed collection created specifically for adult builders. Developed in collaboration with Paramount Products & Experiences, the set recreates iconic locations, characters and memorable elements from the long-running animated series.
The 1,794-piece building set brings together some of Bikini Bottom's most recognisable landmarks, including SpongeBob's pineapple house, Squidward's Easter Island-inspired home and Patrick Star's rock residence. It also features a Jellyfish Fields scene, allowing fans to recreate one of the show's well-known settings.
Each structure has been designed with detailed interiors to enhance the building experience. SpongeBob's pineapple home includes a fully furnished living room and bedroom, while Squidward's house showcases his personal living space. Patrick's rock can also be lifted to reveal an interior beneath its familiar exterior.
The set includes Minifigures of SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star and Squidward, along with brick-built versions of Gary the Snail and DoodleBob. Additional accessories inspired by the series include the boatmobile, Squidward's clarinet and a portrait of Gary, offering fans several references to the animated franchise.
The LEGO Icons SpongeBob SquarePants: Bikini Bottom building set (11386) is currently available for pre-order and will be available for purchase starting September 1.
Alongside the collector's edition, LEGO has also introduced a 72-piece SpongeBob SquarePants set designed for builders aged 10 years and above. The smaller set includes a SpongeBob Minifigure equipped with his signature jellyfishing net, offering a build experience for younger fans of the franchise.
Green Gold Animation, in collaboration with EBG Group, has launched the first Chhota Bheem Cafe in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad. Inspired by the popular animated series, the themed cafe is designed to offer a combination of dining, entertainment, and interactive experiences for children and families.
The outlet recreates the world of Chhota Bheem by bringing together familiar characters such as Chhota Bheem, Chutki, Raju and Jaggu in a themed environment. Alongside its food offerings, the cafe features dedicated play areas, learning activities, toys and branded merchandise, as well as spaces for birthday celebrations and children's events.
The menu has been curated for both children and adults and includes millet-based pizzas, burgers, snacks, themed desserts, beverages and the show's signature-inspired Power Laddoos. In addition to dine-in services, the companies have introduced a Bento Box subscription programme for school-going children, providing breakfast and lunch options through offline delivery channels and the cafe network.
Irfan Khan, Founder and Chairman, EBG Group said, “Families today are looking for destinations that offer more than dining. Through the Chhota Bheem Cafe, we want to bring together healthy food, play, learning and shared family experiences in one place. There's a real opportunity to build a homegrown Indian family entertainment brand, one built around characters children have actually grown up with across the country. Beyond the business opportunity, this is also about creating jobs, in hospitality and operations today, and in franchising as we expand over the next few years.”
Rajiv Chilaka, Founder and CEO, Green Gold Animation shared, “Chhota Bheem has been part of people's homes for almost twenty years. This café is our way of giving him an address - a place where children and families can step into the world of Chhota Bheem and enjoy an experience inspired by the stories and characters they love, beyond the screen. We've had families write to us for years asking for exactly this kind of experience, and this is our response. It's the first step in a much bigger vision for us: taking our characters beyond animation and into everyday life, starting with food, play, and storytelling brought together in one place.”
To further engage young visitors, the cafe will introduce Junior Chef Quest, a supervised cooking programme where children can participate in guided culinary activities. The company is also planning to launch a membership programme that will offer rewards, workshops, educational sessions, and exclusive experiences for members.
As part of its expansion strategy, Green Gold Animation and EBG Group plan to open 25 Chhota Bheem Cafe outlets in the first phase with an investment of Rs 50 crore. The initial rollout will focus on major Tier I cities through company-owned outlets before gradually adopting a franchise-led expansion model.
The partners aim to increase the network to 50 outlets over the next three years, depending on the performance of the first phase. The planned expansion is expected to create more than 500 direct and indirect employment opportunities across hospitality, kitchen operations, franchise management and support functions.
boAt has partnered with Legacy, a community-led talent platform judged by hip-hop artists KR$NA and Raftaar, as part of its efforts to support emerging creators and creative communities in India.
The collaboration builds on boAt's continued association with music, creators, and youth culture. The partnership is aimed at supporting platforms that help identify and nurture new talent while strengthening creator-led communities.
Legacy focuses on discovering emerging artists within India's growing hip-hop ecosystem. Through the partnership, boAt aims to contribute to the development of the next generation of creators by supporting a platform that encourages artistic expression and community engagement.
Commenting on the partnership, a boAt spokesperson said, "At boAt, we've always believed that the strongest communities create the biggest cultural movements. Every generation has creators who redefine music, challenge convention, and inspire millions. Legacy represents that spirit. Through this partnership, we're proud to support the next generation of artists and the communities helping them build India's cultural future."
KR$NA shared, "Having been associated with boAt as a brand ambassador, it’s exciting to now extend that partnership through Legacy. It’s great to see a brand continue to invest in the culture beyond campaigns and become part of a platform that helps discover and nurture the next generation of hip-hop talent. Hip-hop has always been driven by the community, and every new voice deserves the opportunity to be heard."
Raftaar added, "Every generation creates its own sound and its own culture. Legacy is about discovering those voices, but it’s equally about the community that supports them. We’re proud to have a brand like boAt backing this movement. When brands invest in communities rather than simply moments, they help strengthen the entire ecosystem and empower the next generation of artists."
The partnership comes as creator-led communities and independent music platforms continue to gain momentum in India. Through its association with Legacy, boAt aims to further its engagement with emerging talent and support the country's evolving creative and cultural ecosystem.
Warner Bros. Pictures Animation (WBPA) has introduced a refreshed studio logo and opening sequence during the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where it also presented its theatrical release slate for 2026 to 2028.
The updated visual identity replaces the studio's previous glossy, textured shield with a design inspired by the look of traditional hand-painted animation. The new logo also features Tweety Pie flying alongside the iconic shield, while the "Animation" wordmark has been repositioned beneath the logo in a clean script-style typeface.
The redesigned opening sequence highlights the animation process through a short visual narrative. It begins with the studio's signature water tower, which changes through different colours and shades as the scene gradually transforms from a hand-drawn sketch into a fully painted animation. During the sequence, the earlier gold, glossy logo briefly appears before transitioning into the new matte version, reflecting the studio's renewed focus on the craftsmanship of traditional animation instead of computer-generated visuals.
Alongside the rebrand, Warner Bros. Pictures Animation confirmed its upcoming theatrical projects. The studio's slate includes The Cat in the Hat, scheduled to mark its theatrical debut in November 2026, as well as several films currently in development, including Tom & Jerry, Thundercats, Meerkats, Bad Fairies, and the original musical Prehistoria from creator Vivienne Medrano. During the festival, the studio also screened the new Looney Tunes short film, Daffy Season.
The refreshed studio logo will make its official theatrical debut with the release of The Cat in the Hat later this year.
Global gaming lifestyle brand Razer has introduced the Razer x Espeon and Umbreon Collection in collaboration with The Pokémon Company International. The new product range is available through Razer.com, RazerStores worldwide, and select retail partners across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
The collection has been launched as Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary and takes inspiration from Eevee's Evolutions, highlighting the contrasting personalities of Espeon, known for its radiant energy, and Umbreon, recognised for its calm and nocturnal nature. According to the company, the collection translates these distinctive characteristics into gaming accessories designed for fans of both brands.
Designed to cater to different gaming preferences, the collection combines Pokémon-inspired aesthetics with Razer's signature gaming technologies. Each product features Razer Chroma RGB lighting, ergonomic design, and responsive controls aimed at enhancing gameplay while offering a themed visual experience.
The lineup comprises the Razer Kraken V4 X – Espeon and Umbreon Edition gaming headset, the Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless – Espeon and Umbreon Edition keyboard, the Razer Cobra – Espeon and Umbreon Edition gaming mouse, and the Razer Gigantus V2 Medium – Espeon and Umbreon Edition mousepad. Together, the products form a coordinated gaming setup inspired by the Pokémon universe.
With this launch, Razer continues to expand its portfolio of licensed gaming accessories by bringing together its gaming hardware expertise with one of the world's most popular entertainment franchises. The collection is available through the company's online platform, RazerStores, and selected retail partners across multiple international markets.
Toy and entertainment company Hasbro has expanded its portfolio of crossover collectibles with the launch of the "Transformers" x "Scooby-Doo" Mysterious Prime and Automutt action figure set. The new release combines elements from the long-running Transformers and Scooby-Doo franchises, offering fans and collectors a themed collectible inspired by the characters and vehicles from the animated mystery series.
The centrepiece of the collection is the six-inch-scale Mysterious Prime figure, which transforms from a robot into a van inspired by the iconic Mystery Machine. The transformation can be completed in 19 steps, and the figure comes with four interchangeable heads representing Shaggy, Fred, Daphne and Velma, allowing collectors to customise the display based on different members of the Mystery Inc. team.
The set also includes Automutt, a companion figure inspired by Scooby-Doo, which converts between a dog and a box of Scooby Snacks in six steps. The addition of Automutt extends the crossover theme by incorporating one of the franchise's most recognisable characters into the Transformers-inspired format.
To complement the figures, Hasbro has included several themed accessories. The package features a camera and flashlight that can be held by the Mysterious Prime figure, along with orange and green ascots referencing the signature outfits of Fred and Daphne. These accessories are designed to reflect the mystery-solving theme associated with the Scooby-Doo series.
The launch adds to Hasbro's strategy of bringing together well-known entertainment properties through limited-edition collectibles aimed at fans of multiple franchises. By combining the transforming mechanics of Transformers with the visual identity of Scooby-Doo, the company continues to expand its range of licensed crossover products.
Pre-orders for the "Transformers" x "Scooby-Doo" Mysterious Prime and Automutt action figure set have opened on Hasbro Pulse as well as through other participating retailers, ahead of its wider availability.
Children's and family apparel brand PatPat has introduced a new Disney "Moana" collection ahead of the theatrical release of Disney's live-action adaptation of the film. The collection is designed to offer everyday apparel inspired by the popular character, catering to families planning vacations, movie outings and seasonal activities.
The 12-piece collection draws inspiration from the themes and visual elements associated with Moana, featuring colour palettes influenced by ocean blues, sunset hues, sea-glass greens and tropical florals. The range also incorporates subtle character-inspired details while focusing on wearable styles for daily use.
Sandi Graham, Vice President, Design and Merchandising, PatPat shared, "I'm a surfer, so designing for the ‘Moana’ collection felt personal. The ocean has shaped how I think about confidence, adventure and freedom. We wanted to make pieces girls can actually live in, not costumes for one weekend, but everyday clothes that carry a little of that wayfinder spirit into the rest of their summer."
The collection has been designed with mix-and-match styling options, allowing families to coordinate outfits while offering individual styles for children. It is available in sizes ranging from newborn to men's XL, making it suitable for multiple age groups.
The Disney "Moana" collection is now available through PatPat's official website and Amazon.
Goliath Games has announced the launch of "Fourth Wing: Rise of the Wingleader," a new board game inspired by Rebecca Yarros' bestselling Empyrean fantasy series. The game is scheduled to release on July 15, a date widely recognised by fans as Conscription Day.
The board game will be available through major retailers including Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and Books-A-Million. In addition, participating bookstores will offer a Bookseller Variant featuring exclusive collector packaging for fans and collectors.
Julie Doverspike, Global Games Brand Director, Goliath Games said, "Fans have made 'Fourth Wing' a cultural phenomenon, and we wanted to honor that passion with a game that feels like a true extension of the Empyrean universe. From exclusive character artwork to fan-selected creative elements, every decision was made with the community in mind. We're excited to celebrate Conscription Day by inviting players to step into the world of Basgiath and forge their own path to becoming Wingleader."
Designed around the fictional Basgiath War College, the game incorporates key elements from the Empyrean series, including riders, dragons, and character-driven storylines. It features original artwork of popular characters Violet Sorrengail and Xaden Riorson, created specifically for the board game. Each game set also includes a collectible metal Tairn bookmark that doubles as a first-player marker.
The development team worked closely to capture the essence of Rebecca Yarros' fictional universe. Fans also played a role in shaping the final product through an Instagram voting campaign that selected the artwork for the dragon Tairn.
To support the launch, Goliath Games will host live gameplay sessions during Gen Con at the Lucky Duck Booth #2827 and at San Diego Comic-Con, where additional activation details in collaboration with Den of Geek will be announced.
The company will also organise social media giveaways on Conscription Day (July 15) and Threshing Day (October 1), giving fans an opportunity to win themed prize kits inspired by Fourth Wing.
Haier Appliances India has renewed its partnership with JioHotstar as the Associate Partner for the exclusive streaming of The Championships, Wimbledon in India. The collaboration marks the third consecutive year that Haier has partnered with JioHotstar for the tournament, as the company continues to engage premium sports audiences through its sports marketing strategy.
The company said the association aligns with its Sport-o-Tainment approach, which focuses on connecting with younger and digitally engaged consumers through major sporting events. Tennis, with its global following and premium audience, forms an important part of this strategy.
NS Satish, CEO, Haier Appliances India said, "At Haier India, we view sports as a powerful platform to create meaningful consumer experiences that extend beyond our products. Our renewed partnership with JioHotstar for the streaming of Wimbledon reflects this commitment, enabling us to connect with a premium, digitally savvy audience through one of the world's most prestigious premier tennis tournaments. As part of our Sport-o-Tainment strategy, we are leveraging the power of world-class sports to strengthen brand affinity and foster deeper consumer engagement. This collaboration reinforces Haier's position as an innovation-led lifestyle brand while bringing the excitement of Wimbledon closer to millions of Indian consumers."
Anup Govindan, Head of Revenue, JioStar Sports said, “We are thrilled to have Haier continuing its partnership for Wimbledon on JioHotstar for the third consecutive year. Arguably the crown jewel of the Grand Slams, Wimbledon is a global spectacle that transcends sport, steeped in unmatched tradition, that naturally draws a highly engaged, premium audience year after year. By bringing together the unparalleled prestige of the hallowed grass-courts and our exceptional digital reach, this sustained collaboration is a testament to the immense value we drive for both our viewers and Haier.”
Over the years, Haier India has expanded its Sport-o-Tainment portfolio through partnerships with several major sporting events, including the Indian Premier League, ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, ICC Champions Trophy, French Open, ATP Tour, and US Open. The company said these associations are part of its broader strategy to strengthen consumer engagement and reinforce its premium brand positioning in India.
LT Foods, a global FMCG company in the consumer food segment, has announced the fifth edition of DAAWAT World Biryani Day, introducing a new digital campaign featuring Shah Rukh Khan. As part of this year's celebration, the company is offering biryani enthusiasts an opportunity to create personalised videos featuring themselves alongside the actor.
Observed every year on the first Sunday of July, DAAWAT World Biryani Day was introduced by LT Foods in 2022 and is now a registered intellectual property (IP) of the company. Over the past five years, the initiative has evolved into an annual celebration that brings together biryani lovers across different regions, cultures and generations while highlighting the popularity of the dish.
This year's campaign combines technology, entertainment and food by allowing consumers to become part of a customised video with Shah Rukh Khan. LT Foods said the initiative is designed to offer a more interactive experience and encourage consumers to celebrate their love for biryani in a unique way.
Collectibles brand TUBBZ has expanded its licensed product portfolio with the launch of a new "The Terminator" collectible, bringing one of cinema's most iconic characters into its signature range of cosplaying rubber ducks.
Inspired by the popular film franchise, the latest release recreates The Terminator in TUBBZ's distinctive collectible style while incorporating several of the character's signature features. The design includes the iconic leather jacket and black sunglasses, reflecting the character's appearance from the films through detailed styling.
The new collection is being introduced in Collector's Edition, Boxed Edition, and Mini TUBBZ formats, offering collectors multiple display options. Each version is packaged in officially licensed "Terminator"-themed packaging designed specifically for collectors and fans of the franchise.
According to the company, the collectible has been developed with movie-inspired detailing while maintaining the recognisable TUBBZ aesthetic that transforms well-known entertainment characters into rubber duck collectibles.
The launch further expands TUBBZ's portfolio of licensed merchandise, which spans characters from films, television series, video games and other pop culture franchises. The company continues to grow its range of officially licensed collectibles by introducing new characters across multiple entertainment properties.
With the addition of "The Terminator", TUBBZ continues to strengthen its presence in the global collectibles market, offering fans new ways to engage with iconic entertainment franchises through themed merchandise.
Mattel has unveiled a new range of licensed collectibles under its Pop Culture Power Picks lineup ahead of San Diego Comic-Con 2026, further expanding its offerings for collectors and pop culture enthusiasts. The latest announcement follows the company's earlier reveal of its exclusive Hot Wheels products for the annual convention and adds several entertainment-inspired collectibles to its Comic-Con portfolio.
The new collection brings together popular franchises spanning animation, film, and classic action figures. The lineup features products based on "KPop Demon Hunters," "Jurassic World," and "Masters of the Universe," with each collectible designed to reflect key characters and themes from its respective franchise. By bringing together multiple licensed properties in a single release, Mattel continues to strengthen its presence in the licensed collectibles segment while catering to fans of diverse entertainment brands.
Among the new releases is the "KPop Demon Hunters" Ramyeon Three Pack, inspired by the recently introduced entertainment property. The collection also includes the Jurassic World Hammond Collection 25th Anniversary Velociraptor, created to commemorate the milestone anniversary of the iconic dinosaur franchise. Completing the lineup is the "Masters Of The Universe" Gym Bro Skeletor Action Figure, a new interpretation of one of the franchise's most recognizable characters.
The collectibles are scheduled to make their debut at Mattel's merchandise booth during San Diego Comic-Con on July 23, where attendees will have the opportunity to explore the new releases. In addition to their showcase at the event, the products will also be made available for pre-order through Mattel Creations, allowing collectors worldwide to purchase the limited-edition items online.
With the addition of the Pop Culture Power Picks collection, Mattel continues to expand its portfolio of licensed collectibles, leveraging well-known entertainment franchises to introduce exclusive products timed around one of the industry's largest fan conventions.
BBC Studios and LEGO Entertainment have introduced "LEGO Bluey Shorts," a new animated short-form series that reimagines the world of Bluey using LEGO bricks. The collection comprises 10 episodes, each running approximately two minutes, and is now available on the official Bluey YouTube channel, the official LEGO YouTube channel, the LEGO Little Ones channel, and Bluey.TV. New episodes will be released every week.
The series debuted in 12 languages, including English, Spanish (Latin America), Portuguese (Brazil), French, Mandarin, German, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Danish, Korean and Dutch.
The animated shorts recreate several well-known moments from the original Bluey series in LEGO form. Episodes feature games such as Queens, Magic Xylophone and Musical Statues, alongside fan-favourite stories including Sleepytime and The Beach.
Jasmine Dawson, Senior Vice President of Digital, BBC Studios said, "Two fandoms, built for play. This short-form series recreates favorite scenes brick by brick, keeping all the humor, heart and joyful chaos that audiences know and love. Bringing 'Bluey' together with LEGO celebrates the themes at the core of both brands, giving these moments a fresh, playful spin that's as fun to watch as it is to build."
Jill Wilfert, Senior Vice President of Entertainment Partners and Content, LEGO Group added, "We are thrilled to bring the world of 'Bluey' to life through our playful 'LEGO Bluey Shorts' series. This collaboration with BBC Studios allows us to celebrate the creativity and storytelling that both the LEGO brand and 'Bluey' are known for. By reimagining moments from 'Bluey' in the classic LEGO style, we offer families a new and engaging way to connect with 'Bluey's' adventures, fostering creativity and fun for fans of all ages."
Swiggy Dineout has partnered with Apsara, the stationery brand from Hindustan Pencils, to introduce the Apsara PlayPad, a screen-free activity placemat designed to keep children engaged while families dine at restaurants.
The initiative has been rolled out across more than 50 partner restaurants in eight cities. The PlayPad features a range of activities, including colouring pages, puzzles, mazes, word games, and creative challenges, aimed at entertaining children as they wait for their meals.
The collaboration was developed to offer an alternative to screen time during restaurant visits. By combining paper-based activities with creative exercises, the PlayPad seeks to encourage interaction among family members while making waiting time more engaging for children.
Aishwarya Shinod, Chief Marketing Officer, Hindustan Pencils shared, "At Apsara, we've always believed that creativity begins with the simplest of tools, a pencil, a sheet of paper and a child's imagination. Our collaboration with Swiggy Dineout reflects this belief by creating moments where families can slow down, connect and enjoy screen-free experiences together. The Apsara PlayPad is more than just an activity sheet, it's an invitation for children to colour, solve, imagine and create while making waiting time a joyful part of the dining experience. We are delighted to bring this initiative to families across the country and reinforce the value of creativity in everyday moments."
Dhruvish Thakkar, AVP Marketing and Revenue, Swiggy Dineout stated, "Every parent knows the moment when the food is on its way, the child gets restless and the phone comes out. With Apsara, we wanted to give families a better answer. Dining out with your loved ones is not just about the meal, it is about the moments created together. The PlayPad adds creativity to the table, makes the wait more enjoyable for kids and offers a calmer experience for parents and fellow diners. It is a small intervention, but it changes how a family meal feels. This is another step towards creating thoughtful experiences for our consumers, every time they step out."
The companies said the launch reflects the growing focus on experiential consumer engagement, with brands exploring new ways to enhance everyday interactions. The Apsara PlayPad is now available at participating Swiggy Dineout partner restaurants across eight cities, offering families a creative, screen-free activity during mealtimes.
Toy manufacturer Funskool India Ltd. has expanded its licensed product portfolio with the launch of the Hello Kitty and Friends DIY craft range in India, introducing the globally recognised Sanrio character through a new collection of creative activity kits.
The newly launched range includes three products: Hello Kitty Shakey Charms, Hello Kitty Weaving Beads, and Hello Kitty Coin Bank. Designed for children, the DIY kits aim to promote creativity, imagination, and hands-on learning through interactive play.
K.A. Shabir, CEO, Funskool India said, “Hello Kitty is one of the most beloved characters in the world, and we are thrilled to bring the iconic character to children across India through this exciting range of DIY kits. These products go beyond conventional play; they nurture skills, encourage self-expression, and give children a deep sense of accomplishment when they create something with their own hands. This launch is a significant step in our strategy to introduce globally renowned licensed properties to the Indian market with products that resonate with Indian children and families.”
The launch aligns with its strategy to strengthen its portfolio of licensed products while addressing the increasing demand for creative and screen-free play experiences in India. The company added that each DIY kit has been developed to help children build fine motor skills and cognitive abilities through engaging activities.
The Hello Kitty and Friends DIY craft range is now available at leading toy and retail stores across India, as well as on major e-commerce platforms. Funskool also said it plans to introduce additional Hello Kitty DIY kits in the coming months.
Gaming and esports organisation S8UL has announced YouTube as the official partner for its Esports World Cup (EWC) 2026 campaign. Under the partnership, S8UL will launch a range of digital and on-ground initiatives, including Gaming House watch parties, creator collaborations, a 15-city tour across India, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content on YouTube.
The Gaming House Watch Parties, which debuted during the organisation's EWC 2025 campaign, will return to S8UL's facility in Kharghar, allowing fans to watch tournament matches alongside S8UL creators.
As part of the collaboration, the companies will also introduce YouTube Day at the S8UL Gaming House. During the initiative, 10 YouTube creators will be invited to spend a day with S8UL creators to produce livestreams, Shorts, vlogs, and other content.
In addition, S8UL will roll out YouTube UGC Stations across more than 15 cities in India. These activation zones will enable fans to participate in content creation challenges and produce videos that could be featured on S8UL's YouTube channels.
The campaign will also feature a documentary-style vlog series on YouTube following the journeys of more than 50 esports athletes and over 20 creators throughout the tournament. The long-form content will capture preparations, match highlights, and behind-the-scenes moments from the Esports World Cup.
Animesh Agarwal, Co-founder and CEO, S8UL said, “Some partnerships are built around visibility. This one is built on shared history. Every milestone in S8UL’s journey has been made possible by the community that has supported us over the years, and YouTube has always been where that relationship came to life. This partnership for our Esports World Cup campaign is about creating an experience that goes beyond competition. Ultimately, we want to celebrate the people who have been part of our journey while creating opportunities for many more to be part of it, whether they’re watching from the Gaming House, creating content in their own cities, or following every moment from Paris.”
Earlier, S8UL announced Campa Energy as the title sponsor for its Esports World Cup campaign, while AMD joined as a strategic partner to support the organisation's competitive and content initiatives.
Niharika Pande, Head of Creator Partnerships - India, YouTube shared, “YouTube is a natural home for gaming fandoms, where communities come together to connect with their favorite creators and players. S8UL has been an integral part of shaping the Indian gaming ecosystem, building a deep and engaged community on YouTube. We are happy to support their Esports World Cup 2026 campaign, representing a great opportunity for fans across India to share in the excitement and stay close to the tournament and the creators they love every step of the way.”
S8UL has also secured a place in the Esports World Cup Club Partner Program for the second consecutive year. The organisation has already qualified in Apex Legends, Chess, Fortnite, Free Fire MAX, Honor of Kings, and Trackmania, while qualification for EA SPORTS FC, Fatal Fury, Street Fighter 6, and Tekken 8 is still underway.
The Esports World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from July 6 to August 23. The tournament will feature a USD 75 million prize pool, approximately Rs 715 crore, and is expected to bring together more than 2,000 players representing 200 clubs from over 100 countries.
Barbie has introduced a new Barbie Signature Collector doll inspired by award-winning singer, songwriter, and actress Miley Cyrus, recognising her contributions to music, entertainment, and self-expression.
The collectible doll celebrates Cyrus' career, which includes record-breaking achievements in pop culture and entertainment, as well as receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Barbie Signature Miley Cyrus Collectible Doll is inspired by the artist's appearance in the "Golden Burning Sun" music video. It features a faux-leather two-piece pant set paired with a hooded jacket, pointed-toe black pumps, and a microphone accessory.
With the latest release, Cyrus joins the Barbie Signature Series alongside musicians including Kylie Minogue, Mariah Carey, Aaliyah, and Stevie Nicks.
The Barbie Signature Miley Cyrus Collectible Doll will be available through Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Mattel Creations.
Miley Cyrus said, "Seeing my Barbie for the first time is a dream come true. We spent so much time really digging into the details. That's something that wasn't just important to me in designing the Barbie, but it's also very important to my own creativity and the way that I represent myself. We did not miss any marks when it came down to the design of my doll from the look, the hair, the accessories, the makeup, and the structure. Every detail was purposeful, and we spent a lot of time perfecting her – not to be perfect, because that wouldn't be representative of me, but to really get down to the details of this 'Golden Burning Sun' look."
Safe Harbor Development, in collaboration with Kingsmen Xperience and under license from games, IP, and toy company Hasbro, has announced The Play District: Powered by Hasbro, a new immersive entertainment destination planned for the Smoky Mountains. Designed as a multi-attraction family experience, the project will bring several of Hasbro’s well-known brands into a dedicated physical entertainment environment.
Scheduled to open in summer 2027, the destination will feature three themed attraction zones built around interactive and family-focused experiences.
One of the headline attractions will be NERF Action Xperience, an activity-led zone where visitors can take part in skill-based challenges, arcade experiences, laser tag, themed rides, and additional interactive elements inspired by the NERF universe.
The second area, Peppa Pig Playtime, will recreate settings inspired by the popular preschool series, allowing families to engage in play-driven experiences based around Peppa’s world and familiar environments from the show.
The third destination, Planet Playskool, is being developed as an interactive space encouraging creativity and exploration. The attraction will feature experiences inspired by brands including Play-Doh, Transformers, PJ Masks, Mouse Trap, and other Hasbro properties.
Darby Campbell, Founder and Chairman, Safe Harbor Development said, "At Safe Harbor Development, we've always believed the best experiences are measured by how people feel when they leave. The Play District: Powered by Hasbro is more than an entertainment venue – it's a reimagined family destination designed to create happy places and smiling faces. By combining iconic brands with immersive, interactive attractions, we're creating a place where families can connect, spark their imaginations and make lasting memories together. If families leave smiling and feeling closer than when they arrived, then we've done our job."
Located within one of the Southeast’s rapidly expanding tourism markets, The Play District is expected to complement existing attractions in the region while introducing a year-round indoor entertainment offering. The project represents an initial investment of $50 million in the Pigeon Forge community and is being developed by Safe Harbor Development through its affiliate, Indoor Entertainment, which will operate the venue.
Matt Proulx, Senior Vice President, Global Experiences, Partnerships and Music, Hasbro said, "This collaboration between Safe Harbor Development, Kingsmen Xperience, and Hasbro allows us to extend our brands beyond the toy aisle and into real-world experiences. The Play District will give families the opportunity to step into the worlds they already love to create unforgettable memories."
Beyond themed attractions, the approximately 50,000-square-foot venue will include dedicated areas for birthday celebrations, school and camp visits, group events, and team-building experiences. Visitors will also have access to food and beverage offerings along with on-site retail featuring exclusive merchandise.
Corey Redmond, Senior Executive Vice President, Kingsmen Xperience, said, "Darby Campbell and Safe Harbor Development are renowned for their expertise and success in property development and providing exceptional guest experiences. Our partnership with them, along with Kingmen Xperience's design and project management expertise, will realize our long-awaited plan to bring world-class Hasbro attractions and iconic brands to Pigeon Forge."
Construction on the destination is currently underway, with additional details regarding ticketing, opening schedules, and further experiences expected to be announced in the coming months.
Safe Harbor Development, in collaboration with Kingsmen Xperience and under license from games, IP, and toy company Hasbro, has announced The Play District: Powered by Hasbro, a new immersive entertainment destination planned for the Smoky Mountains. Designed as a multi-attraction family experience, the project will bring several of Hasbro’s well-known brands into a dedicated physical entertainment environment.
Scheduled to open in summer 2027, the destination will feature three themed attraction zones built around interactive and family-focused experiences.
One of the headline attractions will be NERF Action Xperience, an activity-led zone where visitors can take part in skill-based challenges, arcade experiences, laser tag, themed rides, and additional interactive elements inspired by the NERF universe.
The second area, Peppa Pig Playtime, will recreate settings inspired by the popular preschool series, allowing families to engage in play-driven experiences based around Peppa’s world and familiar environments from the show.
The third destination, Planet Playskool, is being developed as an interactive space encouraging creativity and exploration. The attraction will feature experiences inspired by brands including Play-Doh, Transformers, PJ Masks, Mouse Trap, and other Hasbro properties.
Darby Campbell, Founder and Chairman, Safe Harbor Development said, "At Safe Harbor Development, we've always believed the best experiences are measured by how people feel when they leave. The Play District: Powered by Hasbro is more than an entertainment venue – it's a reimagined family destination designed to create happy places and smiling faces. By combining iconic brands with immersive, interactive attractions, we're creating a place where families can connect, spark their imaginations and make lasting memories together. If families leave smiling and feeling closer than when they arrived, then we've done our job."
Located within one of the Southeast’s rapidly expanding tourism markets, The Play District is expected to complement existing attractions in the region while introducing a year-round indoor entertainment offering. The project represents an initial investment of $50 million in the Pigeon Forge community and is being developed by Safe Harbor Development through its affiliate, Indoor Entertainment, which will operate the venue.
Matt Proulx, Senior Vice President, Global Experiences, Partnerships and Music, Hasbro said, "This collaboration between Safe Harbor Development, Kingsmen Xperience, and Hasbro allows us to extend our brands beyond the toy aisle and into real-world experiences. The Play District will give families the opportunity to step into the worlds they already love to create unforgettable memories."
Beyond themed attractions, the approximately 50,000-square-foot venue will include dedicated areas for birthday celebrations, school and camp visits, group events, and team-building experiences. Visitors will also have access to food and beverage offerings along with on-site retail featuring exclusive merchandise.
Corey Redmond, Senior Executive Vice President, Kingsmen Xperience, said, "Darby Campbell and Safe Harbor Development are renowned for their expertise and success in property development and providing exceptional guest experiences. Our partnership with them, along with Kingmen Xperience's design and project management expertise, will realize our long-awaited plan to bring world-class Hasbro attractions and iconic brands to Pigeon Forge."
Construction on the destination is currently underway, with additional details regarding ticketing, opening schedules, and further experiences expected to be announced in the coming months.
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