Spin Master to make toys for Deko Boko
Staff -- Kids Today, 6/1/2005
San Francisco— VIZ Media has named Spin Master master toy licensee for Deko Boko Friends, a Japanese animation property for preschool audiences. Simon Spotlight, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, has also been named book-publishing licensee for the property.
Produced as 30-second animated shorts, or interstitials, Deko Boko Friends features 12 characters who aim to help teach children about diversity and tolerance. Nick Jr. recently signed a deal to air Deko Boko Friends on Noggin, its commercial-free educational network for preschoolers. Nicktoons, Nickelodeon's 24-hour cartoon channel, will carry 60 of the program's 30-second interstitials.
"We are thrilled to have Spin Master and Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing join the Deko Boko Friends team," said Cynthia Money, vice president of consumer products for VIZ Media. "Both partners are well known for creative, high quality and innovative product offerings. We look forward to working with our new partners to continue to extend the Deko Boko Friends messages of acceptance and diversity to products children will enjoy."
As master toy licensee for Deko Boko Friends, Spin Master will produce playsets, bath toys, plush, puzzles, role-play items, soft dolls, vehicles and Deko Boko Friends licensed fun furniture.
"Deko Boko Friends is a delightful and refreshing preschool property with a unique look and premise that has captivated children and their families," said Adam Beder, vice president of global licensing for Spin Master. "We're excited to work with VIZ Media to bring this heartwarming property to children with toys that will entertain as well as build their self confidence."
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing will create Deko Boko books for preschoolers.
Deko Boko Friends is designed to teach children about diversity.
