Stone America to represent Paddington Bear

East Rutherford, N.J.— Stone America Licensing has been named the North American agent for the popular Paddington Bear property.

Paddington, a character in the portfolio of U.K.-based The Copyrights Group, has about 265 licensees worldwide, with products offered in the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Southeast Asia, South Africa and more. The bear, who lives with the Browns at Paddington Station, is known for his humor, naiveté and empathy.

Stone America plans to focus on Paddington's crossover appeal to adults as well as children in its licensing program, with a concentration in apparel and accessories. At press time, the agency was in discussions with two major children's apparel companies and a retailer in the infant/toddler category.

"I am pleased to have established this strategic alliance with Copyrights to work with them on Paddington and several other of their properties," said Robert Stone, president of Stone America. "Our vision for Paddington Bear is to capitalize on his wide appeal to expand his licensing program within the adult marketplace and creating classic branded apparel and apparel-related accessories. In addition, we will work to expand and improve upon licensing opportunities in children's apparel and products."

Added Nicholas Durbridge, president of The Copyrights Group: "Stone America's experience with classic, high-profile brands makes them a natural choice to represent the merchandise licensing for Paddington Bear in North America."

Stone America's current clients include Laura Ashley, The Plaza Hotel, London Fog and actress Amanda Bynes.

Stone America plans to expand Paddington Bear's licensing program in the adult and children's apparel categories.