CARTOON NETWORK ENTERPRISES: has signed on three new licensing partners in sporting goods to support its Ben 10 show. Huffy will produce a line of Ben 10-inspired bicycles for the U.S. and Canada. The bikes include a handlebar “disk changer” featuring several changeable character discs for kids to personalize their wheels. Bravo Sports will create branded skateboards for retailers in the U.S. and Canada. In addition, Bell Sports will develop a line of Ben 10 helmets and protective gear, including knee and elbow pads, as well as wrist guards. The licensing deals support an ongoing consumer products program for the show, which also include toys, games, apparel, footwear, accessories, home furnishings, back-to-school items and publishing.
TOYS “R” US: begins an in-store fund-raiser this weekend to support the non-profit advocacy group Autism Speaks. Shoppers in Toys “R” Us’ 586 stores can make cash donations from March 18 through May 4. Online shoppers can make donations at ToysRUs.com/AutismSpeaks. Toys “R” Us has also created an autism-specific version of its Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids, showcasing 10 toys that foster language, creativity and social skills in autistic kids. The campaign coincides with Autism Awareness Month, which is April. Toys “R” Us is also the national sponsor of Autism Speaks’ fundraising walk campaign, Walk Now for Autism. Toys “R” Us staffers will join some of the 60 walks scheduled for this year. Toys “R” Us’ foundation, the Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund, launched its tie-in last month with a $250,000 grant to Autism Speaks.
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