TV-Loonland has secured a deal with France 5, for the preschool series, PENELOPE (54 x 5), in addition to key broadcaster signings, including DR TV Denmark and Hop! Channel Israel.
PENELOPE is a well-established brand in Japan on NHK with a full licensing and merchandising program comprising of more than 24 licensing deals concluded by the TV series' producer Nippon Animation.
France is the next stop with a wide selection of merchandise including a full range of books from original publisher Gallimard, as well as soft toys, gifts and collectables launching in 2008 on the back of France 5's premiere of the TV series in fall 2008.
Gallimard plans to invest heavily in PENELOPE this year making her their key property for 2008. This includes two new animated books, bath and gift books, as well as the re-release of the entire collection of PENELOPE's traditional books and the creation of her own mini website, which will tie-in with the TV launch.
Originating from the popular Gallimard books by Anne Gutman and Georg Hallensleben, this animated series (co-produced by Nippon Animation, NHK Enterprises and Shirogumi) tells the story about everyday life for the 3-year old, sweet-natured, chatterbox Penelope. The tales of this little blue koala bear, who has an insatiable curiosity about all things around her, are full of fun and told with humor and affection.
