Disney has signed a new multiyear book licensing deal with Random House Inc. which sees the end to its 70-year relationship with Golden Books Family Entertainment. The golden spined children's books, which have graced the shelves of bookstores to grocery markets, will no longer feature Disney characters. The decision to sign with Random House came after the terms of their deal with Golden Books were not profitable. The financial terms of the five-year deal were not disclosed due to competitive reasons. Random will take over production of Disney-based storybooks, coloring books, activity books, novelty books and early reading books on January 1, 2001 when Disney's contract with Golden Books runs out. The sole publishing rights will be held by Random House in the U.S. and Canada. Already hundreds of titles, featuring characters such as Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh and Cinderella, are planned under the deal. "This agreement is about innovation," said Deborah Dugan, senior VP and managing director of Disney Publishing Worldwide. "In Random House, we have found a publisher who can bring a fresh editorial and marketing approach to the treasures of the Disney portfolio."