Ovadia firm named agent for U.K.-based Annoying Thing
Staff -- Kids Today, 9/1/2005
Calabasas, Calif.— Al Ovadia & Associates has been named the exclusive North American licensing agent for the European property The Annoying Thing.
The Annoying Thing, also known as Crazy Frog, was introduced in 2003 and gained popularity when it was used in advertising for cell phone downloads and ring tones. The property since has spawned a hit video single in the United Kingdom. A full-length CD, video games and more will be released in the United States and Canada this year.
Ovadia's licensing program will cover several categories, including toys, candy, paper goods, school supplies, backpacks, novelty and gift items, apparel and accessories. The key demographic is children ages 6 to 16. Merchandise released this year will be geared toward specialty and gift stores, with distribution to mid-tier and mass-market stores beginning in 2006.
"I'm very excited to be working with such a colorful and unique property like The Annoying Thing," said Al Ovadia, president of the licensing agency. "The character has clearly made a connection to consumers of all ages. With a TV series and feature film in discussion, this frog can truly have legs."
