Universal Music Group (UMG) has announced a significant new agreement with Rocket Entertainment for one of the music’s most iconic artists Elton John. This partnership entitles UMG to represent the entirety of Elton John’s legendary creative output throughout his extraordinary five-decade career. Also UMG’s labels will globally release all of Elton John’s new music for the rest of his career going forward. The multi-faceted agreement also includes the publishing rights to John's iconic song writing catalogue to be administrated by Universal Music Publishing Group long into the future. Bravado, UMG’s brand-management and merchandise company, will work closely with Rocket to expand and develop global merchandising, branding and retail licensing opportunities around Elton’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road world tour and catalogue. In making the announcement Elton John said, “In UMG we’ve got the perfect partners to support all aspects of my creative endeavours. Lucian, Jody, David and the UMG family share the values that we hold dear – nurturing artistry, restless creativity and innovation. I’m proud and delighted to have them stand alongside me as I embark on the next phase of my career” David Furnish, CEO of Rocket Entertainment, said: “During the time I’ve been CEO of Rocket our relationship with Universal has gone from strength to strength. Sir Lucian Grainge, Jody Gerson, David Joseph and their teams’ vision to bring Elton into the digital / streaming age and make his catalogue relevant to a younger generation is in perfect tandem with everything we strive to do day in, day out at Rocket. Elton’s hunger and desire to push himself creatively and collaborate with the best, most exciting creatives in the world is as great as ever, and Universal fully share our vision to keep Elton at the forefront of popular culture.” Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Group said, “Elton John is a creative cornerstone of UMG, which has been his home since his earliest days at MCA Records. As he embarks on his monumental Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, we are excited for our entire global organization to stand alongside him, working hand in hand with David and his team at Rocket to ensure that his music continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world for generations to come.” Mat Vlasic, CEO of Bravado, said: “Bravado sits at the crossroads of music and fashion and we are constantly pushing the limits of what we can do for our artists. It’s an honor to work with Elton- a legendary icon who continues to brilliantly weave music and fashion together while constantly elevating his aesthetic to new heights. His influence on fashion has not only inspired designers around the world, including our own, but he has empowered generations of fans to take license with their own freedom of expression, something that I have always admired and greatly appreciated. We are excited to create something that celebrates his legacy and that his fans will treasure for years to come.” Some of the world’s biggest and most exciting artists from a wide-range of genres joined together to pay homage to cover versions of songs written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, resulting in two albums released in April: Revamp (Virgin EMI/Island Records) and the country music companion Restoration (MCA Nashville). Miley Cyrus to The Killers, Little Big Town to Maren Morris, Q-Tip to Lady Gaga, Chris Stapleton to Kacey Musgraves, Ed Sheeran to Queens Of The Stone Age contributed recordings to the albums. Revamp reached No. 2 in the U.K. Compilation Charts, educating a new generation of fans to the influence and inspiration that Elton has had on various genres leading lights. Elton continues to impact the world of fashion and will work with Bravado to create an inspired line of merchandise for his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. Bravado will oversee worldwide tour and retail merchandise, brand partnerships, licensing and direct-to-consumer sales along with activations planned in cities throughout the tour. Elton’s iconic presence in fashion and design was felt last year as Gucci unveiled their Spring Summer 2018 collection. Designed by Alessandro Michele and inspired by Elton’s inimitable style, the collection referenced original items taken from his archives. Gucci has also designed Elton’s wardrobe for the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, threading the various style elements that make up the superstar’s DNA. Elton also appeared as himself in a critically lauded, hilariously tongue-in-cheek role in Kingsman: The Golden Circle, and his songs soundtrack Sherlock Gnomes. Staying within the visual medium, last year also saw Elton and Bernie launch The Cut, a project allowing undiscovered creative talent from all over the world the chance to create the official music videos for some of their most iconic songs: “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer” and “Bennie And The Jets,” each winning video attracting millions upon millions of views. The Cut, which was supported by YouTube, helped build a dialogue with Elton’s younger fanbase and exposed Elton’s catalogue to a creative, youth-orientated audience, allowing new and emerging talent to produce the first-ever official videos for some of Elton’s classic tracks from before the commercial music video-era. Elton’s regular Beats 1 Rocket Hour show on Apple Music also reinforces his unsurpassed reputation as a connoisseur of pop and a supporter of new and emerging talent. Having recently transmitted it’s 150th episode, Elton has now presented more shows for Beats 1 than any of the other regular presenters. As Elton’s globally anticipated Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour gets underway in the U.S., the next phase of the icon’s unparalleled career will continue to push the boundaries and define the meaning of the term global Superstar. With the path of his future recording career now set in stone with UMG, and under Rocket Entertainment’s stewardship, Elton John defines pop culture in the 21st Century. About Elton John Elton’s career achievements to date are unsurpassed in their breadth and longevity. Elton is one of the top-selling solo artists of all time, with 38 gold records and 31 platinum and multi-platinum albums, over 50 Top 40 hits, and he has sold more than 300 million records worldwide. He holds the record for the biggest-selling single of all time, “Candle in the Wind 1997,” which sold over 33 million copies. ‘Diamonds’ the Ultimate Greatest Hits album, reached the Top 5 of the U.K. album charts on its release in November 2017, becoming Elton’s 40th U.K. Top 40 album in the process, reaching Gold status before the end of the year. This release celebrated 50 years of his songwriting partnership with Bernie Taupin. August 2018 saw Elton named as the most successful male solo artist in Billboard Hot 100 chart history, having logged 67 entries, including nine No. 1s and 27 Top 10s. He has also written the music for stage and screen successes Billy Elliot: The Musical, Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida, and The Lion King, which was named the highest-grossing stage show or film release in the world. To date, Elton has delivered more than 4,000 performances in more than 80 countries since launching his first tour in 1970. Among the many awards and honours bestowed upon him are 5 GRAMMYs including a GRAMMY Legend award, a Tony and an Oscar, a Best British Male Artist BRIT Award, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Kennedy Center Honors, Legend of Live Award, 13 Ivor Novello Awards and a knighthood from HM Queen Elizabeth II for “services to music and charitable services.” In January 2018, he received the Crystal Award for this long-standing fight against HIV/AIDS at the World Economic Forum in Davos. In 1992, Elton established the Elton John AIDS Foundation, which today is one of the leading non-profit HIV/AIDS organizations and has raised over $400 million to date in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. About Universal Music Group Universal Music Group (UMG) is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. Featuring the most comprehensive catalog of recordings and songs across every musical genre, UMG identifies and develops artists and produces and distributes the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world. Committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship, UMG fosters the development of services, platforms and business models in order to broaden artistic and commercial opportunities for our artists and create new experiences for fans. Universal Music Group is a Vivendi company. Find out more at: http://www.universalmusic.com. About Universal Music Publishing Group Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) is a leading global music publisher with 44 offices in 37 countries. Headquartered in Los Angeles, UMPG represents music across every genre from some of the world’s most important songwriters and catalogs. These include ABBA, Adele, Jhené Aiko, Alabama Shakes, Alex Da Kid, Axwell & Ingrosso, J Balvin, Bastille, Beach Boys, Beastie Boys, Bee Gees, Irving Berlin, Leonard Bernstein, Jeff Bhasker, Justin Bieber, Benny Blanco, Chris Brown, Kane Brown, Mariah Carey, Michael Chabon, Desmond Child, The Clash, Coldplay, J. Cole, Elvis Costello, Miley Cyrus, Jason Derulo, Alexandre Desplat, Neil Diamond, Disclosure, Dua Lipa, Danny Elfman, Eminem, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Florence + the Machine, Future, Martin Garrix, Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, Al Green, HAIM, Halsey, Emile Haynie, Jimi Hendrix, Don Henley, Kacy Hill, Hit-Boy, Sam Hunt, Imagine Dragons, Carly Rae Jepsen, Jeremih, Tobias Jesso Jr., Billy Joel, Elton John/Bernie Taupin, Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas, Lil Yachty, Linkin Park, Demi Lovato, the Mamas & the Papas, Steve Mac, Maroon 5, Shawn Mendes, Metro Boomin, Miguel, Nicki Minaj, Stephan Moccio, Mumford & Sons, Jimmy Napes, Randy Newman, New Order, Ne-Yo, Pearl Jam, Rudy Perez, Post Malone, Otis Redding, R.E.M., Rex Orange County, Carole Bayer Sager, Gustavo Santaolalla, Sex Pistols, Carly Simon, Paul Simon, Britney Spears, Bruce Springsteen, Stax (East Memphis Music), Harry Styles, SZA, Shania Twain, Justin Timberlake, U2, Keith Urban, Troy Verges, Diane Warren, Jack White, Zedd and many more. About Bravado Bravado is the leading global provider of consumer, lifestyle and branding services to recording artists and entertainment brands around the world. Part of Universal Music Group, the leader in music-based entertainment, Bravado represents artists in more than 40 countries and provides services including sales, licensing, branding, marketing and e-commerce. Their extensive global distribution network gives artists and brands the opportunity to create deeper connections with their fans through apparel, consumer packaged goods and unique experiences. For more information: http://www.bravado.com
Olympia Le-Tan has collaborated with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products to introduce a limited-edition capsule collection inspired by the television series "Friends." The collection translates some of the show's most recognisable visual elements into the fashion brand's signature embroidered book clutch format.
The collaboration features two limited-edition clutch designs based on familiar symbols associated with the series. One takes inspiration from the yellow frame displayed on the door of Monica's apartment, while the second incorporates the recognisable "Friends" logo.
Through the capsule, Olympia Le-Tan draws on elements that have remained closely associated with the sitcom since it first aired in 1994. The collection brings together references from the series with the brand's embroidery-focused approach, turning familiar details from the show into collectible fashion accessories.
"Friends" has maintained a global audience since its debut and continues to reach viewers across generations. The collaboration builds on this long-standing connection by incorporating details that fans associate with the show's characters, settings, and storylines.
Elements such as the purple door of Monica's apartment and references incorporated on the back of the clutch designs have been used throughout the collection. These details are intended to reflect familiar moments from the series while maintaining Olympia Le-Tan's established design format.
Aude Sergent, Chief Executive Officer, Olympia Le-Tan said, "Some stories become part of our lives, and 'Friends' is one of them," says Aude Sergent, chief executive officer, Olympia Le-Tan. "We wanted to celebrate the small details that instantly transport people back into the 'Friends' world: the yellow frame, the familiar logo, the feeling of comfort and friendship. Through our embroidery and craftsmanship, we transformed these memories into collectible pieces that can be treasured for years to come."
Each clutch in the collection is handcrafted using traditional embroidery techniques. The two designs will be produced in limited quantities, with every piece individually numbered from 01/77 to 77/77.
The collaboration adds "Friends" to Olympia Le-Tan's portfolio of designs inspired by cultural and entertainment properties. By incorporating elements from the television series into its embroidered accessories, the brand continues to explore collaborations that bring entertainment intellectual properties into the fashion and accessories category.
The "Friends" x Olympia Le-Tan collection will be available as a limited edition beginning Nov. 9. Consumers will be able to purchase the collection through OlympiaLeTan.com, the Maison OLT boutique in Paris and select retailers.
Life360 has partnered with Disney to introduce a limited-edition collection of Tile Bluetooth trackers featuring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. The collaboration combines Disney's popular characters with Life360's location-tracking technology, offering consumers a new range of trackers designed for everyday belongings.
The collection has been introduced during the summer travel period and ahead of the back-to-school season. The Tile trackers can be attached to or stored with frequently used items such as luggage, passports, strollers and backpacks, helping users keep track of their belongings through connected devices.
Mike Zeman, Chief Marketing Officer, Life360 said, "Disney is iconic when it comes to magical family experiences," says Mike Zeman, chief marketing officer, Life360. "And, Life360 exists to make everyday family life better. We are beyond thrilled to bring this collaboration to life, with Mickey and Minnie-themed tile trackers that are sure to bring both delight and peace of mind to Disney fans around the world."
The limited-edition range includes two Tile Starter Packs, with separate versions featuring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. Each Starter Pack comes with a standard Tile tracker and a Tile Slim, providing different formats for tracking personal belongings. Consumers can also purchase individual Tile trackers featuring Mickey Mouse.
In terms of functionality, the trackers offer a Bluetooth range of up to 350 feet and come with a three-year battery. The devices also include a ring feature that allows users to trigger a sound when searching for nearby belongings. An SOS button is also included as part of the trackers' functionality.
The devices are compatible with both Android and Apple devices and work with the Life360 app. Through the app, users can view the location of connected people, pets, and belongings together on a single map, bringing different tracking functions within one platform.
With the Disney collaboration, Life360 is extending Tile's product portfolio through character-based designs while retaining the tracking features of its existing devices. The collection also reflects the increasing use of entertainment and character intellectual properties across consumer technology and accessories.
Hasbro has introduced a new collection of six Dr. Seuss-themed board games, reimagining several of its classic games with characters, stories, and settings from the beloved children's books. The collection is currently available on Amazon, while additional major retailers are rolling out the games throughout the month.
Among the new releases is Trouble: "One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish," where players race to move all four of their fish from Home to the Finish Zone. Along the way, players can land on special spaces that either advance their position, send opponents backward, or prompt them to sing like a Ying. The game is available on Amazon and Walmart.com.
Another addition is The Game of Life: "Oh, The Places You'll Go!", which allows players to choose their own route across the game board, travelling through locations featured in the classic Dr. Seuss book, including Wide Open Air, High Heights, and The Waiting Place. It is available through Amazon and Walmart.com.
Hasbro has also launched Chutes and Ladders: "The Cat in the Hat" Edition, featuring the Cat in the Hat alongside Thing 1 and Thing 2 in a themed climbing and sliding adventure. The game is available on Amazon and Walmart.com.
For card game enthusiasts, Monopoly Deal: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" blends the fast-paced Monopoly Deal format with characters, artwork, and objects inspired by the Dr. Seuss holiday classic. Players collect items from around Who-ville during gameplay. The title became available on July 15 at major retailers, including Amazon, Target, and Walmart.
The lineup also includes Candy Land: The World of Dr. Seuss, where players select a Dr. Seuss character and draw cards to move along the Rainbow Path. The cards feature colours and special Seuss-inspired elements, and players can either compete individually or work together in a race against the Cat in the Hat. The game is available at Walmart.
Completing the collection is Operation: The Grinch Edition, which centres on the Grinch and features built-in sound effects. The game offers two gameplay modes, including the traditional Hospital mode and an Emergency mode. It is scheduled to be available from August 1 at Walmart.
Following the recent release of FIFA Heroes, the five-a-side arcade football game designed for mobile-first football audiences, a new Shrek Season Pass is now available and will run until Aug. 10.
The Season Pass brings characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek franchise into the FIFA Heroes arena. Players will be able to encounter characters including Shrek, Fiona, Puss in Boots, Gingy, Pinocchio, and Lord Farquaad.
The collaboration comes as the first “Shrek” film celebrates its 25th anniversary this summer. The franchise is also set to enter its next chapter with DreamWorks Animation’s “Shrek 5,” which is scheduled to arrive in cinemas worldwide next summer.
Throughout the Season Pass, players will have opportunities to unlock a range of rewards. These include Shrek and two additional characters, six character emojis, and new avatars featuring Donkey, among other additions.
The crossover expands the character lineup available within FIFA Heroes and brings together the worlds of arcade football and the Shrek franchise. By incorporating familiar characters into its five-a-side gameplay format, the Season Pass adds new themed content for players during its limited availability period.
FIFA Heroes is currently available for players on iOS and Android devices. The game is also expected to expand its availability, with versions for PC and consoles coming soon.
Gaming hardware company Razer has partnered with The Pokémon Company International to introduce the Pikachu & Eevee Collection, marking Pokémon's 30th anniversary. The new lineup brings Pikachu and Eevee-inspired designs to a selection of Razer gaming peripherals, expanding the collaboration across gaming accessories for Pokémon fans and gamers.
The collection consists of four gaming peripherals, including a headset, keyboard, mouse and mouse mat. The Razer Kraken V4 X – Pikachu & Eevee Edition is a wired gaming headset featuring a design based on the two Pokémon characters. It is joined by the Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless – Pikachu & Eevee Edition, a compact keyboard designed without a dedicated number pad.
Also included in the lineup is the Razer Cobra – Pikachu & Eevee Edition, a lightweight wired gaming mouse. Completing the collection is the Razer Gigantus V2 – Medium – Pikachu & Eevee Edition, a micro-weave cloth mouse mat designed to complement the other products in the range.
The gaming peripherals feature Razer Chroma RGB lighting, allowing compatible products to display coordinated lighting effects across a user's desktop setup. The feature enables the headset, keyboard and mouse to work as part of a visually connected gaming environment for both shorter gaming sessions and extended use.
Through the collection, Razer and The Pokémon Company International are bringing two of the franchise's recognised characters to gaming hardware as Pokémon celebrates three decades. The collaboration also reflects the continued crossover between entertainment intellectual properties and gaming accessories, with character-led designs increasingly extending into consumer technology categories.
The Pikachu & Eevee Collection is currently available through Razer's official website, RazerStores and select retail partners. The lineup is being offered across multiple international markets, including the U.S., Latin America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.
Entertainment and music investment firm Pophouse Entertainment (Pophouse) has entered into a strategic partnership with legendary rock band Iron Maiden, acquiring a stake in the band's publishing rights, master music rights, and name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights.
The partnership, developed over the past year in collaboration with Andy Taylor, Co-manager of Iron Maiden, is intended to support new creative projects while helping the band engage existing fans and introduce its music catalogue to new audiences.
As part of the collaboration, Pophouse and Iron Maiden recently launched the Infinite Dreams Museum Experience during EddFest at Knebworth House. Inspired by the band's anniversary book, Infinite Dreams, the attraction celebrates five decades of Iron Maiden's history and features its iconic mascot, Eddie, through immersive exhibits and interactive fan experiences.
The companies are also working together on filming Iron Maiden's ongoing Run For Your Lives world tour for a major cinematic project. Future plans include expanding interactive fan experiences and developing a digital universe centred around Eddie.
Jessica Koravos, Chief Executive Officer, Pophouse said, "Iron Maiden is a band whose remarkable longevity and rich catalogue open up countless creative possibilities. With Pophouse's partnership, the band now has the investment and creative firepower to keep evolving for decades to come. It is a privilege to support Iron Maiden in this new chapter and to help carry their extraordinary legacy forward for the fans who have built this global community over the past 50 years."
Johan Lagerlöf, Fund Managing Partner and Head, Investments, Pophouse added, "Iron Maiden is not just a legendary band, it is one of the most powerful franchises in music history. Its songs, unique imagery and live shows have inspired generations of dedicated fans across every continent and continue to attract new audiences, decade after decade. In a world of rapid technological advancements, we believe that Iron Maiden, together with us, is perfectly positioned to harness the opportunities this new era brings. We are humble but beyond excited to help shape the legacy of this unique cultural phenomenon."
Rod Smallwood, Manager, Iron Maiden stated, "I am very excited about our relationship with Pophouse and the ability we now have to pursue, facilitate and finance our many plans and dreams quicker than we ever hoped. The interest in the band has never been bigger and this strategic partnership, which we've been quietly working together on now for over a year, has already had results with the progress on the Infinite Dreams Museum and the filming of the current show. The fans can be assured there is a great deal more to come for Maiden, and Eddie will rule, OK!"
Dave Shack, Managing Director, Phantom Music and Co-manager, Iron Maiden commented, "Rod and Andy have always encouraged and inspired us to take chances in developing Eddie and the worlds he inhabits, such as horror, gaming, or comic books. The band provides the cornerstone of what Maiden is – superlative music and incredible live shows, and the Phantom Team have focused on developing parts of Maiden lore that we think our fans will embrace and enjoy. Such Maiden-related initiatives include an award-winning mobile game, a global fan club offering, a vibrant drinks business, books and comics and, of course, merchandising in all its forms. It's absolutely one of the greatest sandpits for a creative to play in – and Pophouse have already shown they belong in it. When an unexpected power failure threatened filming of our Paris concert for a major cinematic project, they moved quickly alongside us to mobilize a full crew at EddFest and keep the project on track."
Etihad Arena has entered into a partnership with District by Zomato to make its live events accessible through the platform's event discovery and ticket access services.
Under the collaboration, users of District will be able to discover events hosted at the Abu Dhabi venue alongside dining, entertainment, and other experiences available on the platform.
The partnership adds another channel to Etihad Arena's existing ticketing ecosystem, allowing audiences to explore and access events through District while supporting broader event discovery.
Marcus Osborne, General Manager, Etihad Arena said, “We’re pleased to welcome this new collaboration with District. As we continue to grow our global audience, partnerships like this play an important role in reaching new audiences and supporting Abu Dhabi’s wider tourism ambitions. Together, we can strengthen our offering and continue delivering world-class experiences to audiences in the UAE and beyond.”
Kunal Khambhati, Founder & COO – Events, District by Zomato shared, “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Etihad Arena, one of the region’s most exciting live entertainment destinations. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for District as we continue to redefine the live events experience across the UAE. Etihad Arena has established itself as a premier home for exceptional entertainment, and together, we’re committed to delivering world-class, fan-first experiences.”
The partnership is expected to improve the visibility of events hosted at Etihad Arena while giving District users another option to discover and access live entertainment experiences across the UAE.
Amazon has integrated Amazon MX Player into Prime Video, bringing together both free and subscription-based content on a single platform. The move gives advertisers access to Prime Video's premium audience alongside Amazon MX Player's extensive user base, covering a wide range of content including original series, reality shows, micro-dramas, and dubbed international titles.
The combined platform now features popular Indian web series such as Mirzapur, Panchayat, and The Family Man, along with Amazon MX Player originals including Aashram and Hip Hop India. By combining premium originals with ad-supported programming, international content, and short-form entertainment, Amazon is expanding its streaming content portfolio.
The integration also creates broader advertising opportunities for brands by enabling them to reach diverse audience segments with campaigns tailored to different viewing preferences. Advertisers can use Amazon's shopping, browsing, and streaming insights to engage consumers based on their interests and purchasing behaviour, supporting campaigns across awareness, consideration, and conversion stages.
"The unification of Amazon MX Player with Prime Video significantly uplevels the possibilities for advertisers in India. For viewers, this means more of their favorite content in one place. For advertisers, the new service translates into wider and more engaged audiences in a single destination available for sponsorship and custom creative brand opportunities. This is not just about reach—it is about performance, scale, and precision. With our full-funnel advertising solutions, brands can now leverage shoppable formats, integrate within India’s biggest shows, sponsor premium content, and measure real impact from impression to outcome, all within one streaming service powered by trillions of Amazon signals,” said Girish Prabhu, Vice President & Head, Amazon Ads India.
With the integration, advertisers can now access the combined Prime Video streaming audience through a single media buying platform. They can also extend campaigns across apps, websites, and premium publishers using Amazon DSP, allowing brands to manage and measure campaigns across Amazon's streaming inventory and digital ecosystem from one platform.
Amazon has also introduced interactive advertising formats, including QR code-enabled advertisements that allow viewers to add products directly to their Amazon shopping cart while watching content. Additional formats such as Branded Carousels and Pause Ads provide brands with more ways to engage audiences during their streaming experience.
In addition to traditional advertising, brands can collaborate with Prime Video through in-content integrations, product placements, talent-led campaigns, branded bumpers, and season-long sponsorships.
Collectibles brand Funko has announced the addition of new Pop! figures inspired by the popular titles Obsession and Off Campus, expanding its portfolio of entertainment and literary collectibles.
As part of the latest release, Funko is introducing POP! Nikki, based on the viral character from Obsession. The collectible is now available for pre-order through the company's official website.
The company has also unveiled a new Off Campus Pop! collection, featuring characters from Elle Kennedy's bestselling romance series. The lineup includes Allie Hayes, Dean Di Laurentis, Garrett Graham and Hannah Wells, bringing some of the franchise's best-known characters into Funko's signature Pop! format.
Designed for fans and collectors, the new figures recreate the characters with the brand's distinctive stylised design while celebrating the growing popularity of both Obsession and Off Campus.
The new releases reflect Funko's continued strategy of expanding its portfolio through partnerships with popular entertainment and literary franchises. By introducing collectibles based on well-known books and fictional characters, the company continues to strengthen its presence among readers, pop culture enthusiasts, and memorabilia collectors.
Both the POP! Nikki figure from Obsession and the Off Campus character collection are now available for pre-order on Funko's official website. The latest additions further broaden the brand's catalogue of licensed collectibles, giving fans new ways to celebrate two of the most talked-about titles in contemporary fiction.
The LEGO Group has introduced the LEGO Icons SpongeBob SquarePants: Bikini Bottom building set, its first SpongeBob SquarePants-themed collection created specifically for adult builders. Developed in collaboration with Paramount Products & Experiences, the set recreates iconic locations, characters and memorable elements from the long-running animated series.
The 1,794-piece building set brings together some of Bikini Bottom's most recognisable landmarks, including SpongeBob's pineapple house, Squidward's Easter Island-inspired home and Patrick Star's rock residence. It also features a Jellyfish Fields scene, allowing fans to recreate one of the show's well-known settings.
Each structure has been designed with detailed interiors to enhance the building experience. SpongeBob's pineapple home includes a fully furnished living room and bedroom, while Squidward's house showcases his personal living space. Patrick's rock can also be lifted to reveal an interior beneath its familiar exterior.
The set includes Minifigures of SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star and Squidward, along with brick-built versions of Gary the Snail and DoodleBob. Additional accessories inspired by the series include the boatmobile, Squidward's clarinet and a portrait of Gary, offering fans several references to the animated franchise.
The LEGO Icons SpongeBob SquarePants: Bikini Bottom building set (11386) is currently available for pre-order and will be available for purchase starting September 1.
Alongside the collector's edition, LEGO has also introduced a 72-piece SpongeBob SquarePants set designed for builders aged 10 years and above. The smaller set includes a SpongeBob Minifigure equipped with his signature jellyfishing net, offering a build experience for younger fans of the franchise.
Green Gold Animation, in collaboration with EBG Group, has launched the first Chhota Bheem Cafe in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad. Inspired by the popular animated series, the themed cafe is designed to offer a combination of dining, entertainment, and interactive experiences for children and families.
The outlet recreates the world of Chhota Bheem by bringing together familiar characters such as Chhota Bheem, Chutki, Raju and Jaggu in a themed environment. Alongside its food offerings, the cafe features dedicated play areas, learning activities, toys and branded merchandise, as well as spaces for birthday celebrations and children's events.
The menu has been curated for both children and adults and includes millet-based pizzas, burgers, snacks, themed desserts, beverages and the show's signature-inspired Power Laddoos. In addition to dine-in services, the companies have introduced a Bento Box subscription programme for school-going children, providing breakfast and lunch options through offline delivery channels and the cafe network.
Irfan Khan, Founder and Chairman, EBG Group said, “Families today are looking for destinations that offer more than dining. Through the Chhota Bheem Cafe, we want to bring together healthy food, play, learning and shared family experiences in one place. There's a real opportunity to build a homegrown Indian family entertainment brand, one built around characters children have actually grown up with across the country. Beyond the business opportunity, this is also about creating jobs, in hospitality and operations today, and in franchising as we expand over the next few years.”
Rajiv Chilaka, Founder and CEO, Green Gold Animation shared, “Chhota Bheem has been part of people's homes for almost twenty years. This café is our way of giving him an address - a place where children and families can step into the world of Chhota Bheem and enjoy an experience inspired by the stories and characters they love, beyond the screen. We've had families write to us for years asking for exactly this kind of experience, and this is our response. It's the first step in a much bigger vision for us: taking our characters beyond animation and into everyday life, starting with food, play, and storytelling brought together in one place.”
To further engage young visitors, the cafe will introduce Junior Chef Quest, a supervised cooking programme where children can participate in guided culinary activities. The company is also planning to launch a membership programme that will offer rewards, workshops, educational sessions, and exclusive experiences for members.
As part of its expansion strategy, Green Gold Animation and EBG Group plan to open 25 Chhota Bheem Cafe outlets in the first phase with an investment of Rs 50 crore. The initial rollout will focus on major Tier I cities through company-owned outlets before gradually adopting a franchise-led expansion model.
The partners aim to increase the network to 50 outlets over the next three years, depending on the performance of the first phase. The planned expansion is expected to create more than 500 direct and indirect employment opportunities across hospitality, kitchen operations, franchise management and support functions.
boAt has partnered with Legacy, a community-led talent platform judged by hip-hop artists KR$NA and Raftaar, as part of its efforts to support emerging creators and creative communities in India.
The collaboration builds on boAt's continued association with music, creators, and youth culture. The partnership is aimed at supporting platforms that help identify and nurture new talent while strengthening creator-led communities.
Legacy focuses on discovering emerging artists within India's growing hip-hop ecosystem. Through the partnership, boAt aims to contribute to the development of the next generation of creators by supporting a platform that encourages artistic expression and community engagement.
Commenting on the partnership, a boAt spokesperson said, "At boAt, we've always believed that the strongest communities create the biggest cultural movements. Every generation has creators who redefine music, challenge convention, and inspire millions. Legacy represents that spirit. Through this partnership, we're proud to support the next generation of artists and the communities helping them build India's cultural future."
KR$NA shared, "Having been associated with boAt as a brand ambassador, it’s exciting to now extend that partnership through Legacy. It’s great to see a brand continue to invest in the culture beyond campaigns and become part of a platform that helps discover and nurture the next generation of hip-hop talent. Hip-hop has always been driven by the community, and every new voice deserves the opportunity to be heard."
Raftaar added, "Every generation creates its own sound and its own culture. Legacy is about discovering those voices, but it’s equally about the community that supports them. We’re proud to have a brand like boAt backing this movement. When brands invest in communities rather than simply moments, they help strengthen the entire ecosystem and empower the next generation of artists."
The partnership comes as creator-led communities and independent music platforms continue to gain momentum in India. Through its association with Legacy, boAt aims to further its engagement with emerging talent and support the country's evolving creative and cultural ecosystem.
Warner Bros. Pictures Animation (WBPA) has introduced a refreshed studio logo and opening sequence during the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where it also presented its theatrical release slate for 2026 to 2028.
The updated visual identity replaces the studio's previous glossy, textured shield with a design inspired by the look of traditional hand-painted animation. The new logo also features Tweety Pie flying alongside the iconic shield, while the "Animation" wordmark has been repositioned beneath the logo in a clean script-style typeface.
The redesigned opening sequence highlights the animation process through a short visual narrative. It begins with the studio's signature water tower, which changes through different colours and shades as the scene gradually transforms from a hand-drawn sketch into a fully painted animation. During the sequence, the earlier gold, glossy logo briefly appears before transitioning into the new matte version, reflecting the studio's renewed focus on the craftsmanship of traditional animation instead of computer-generated visuals.
Alongside the rebrand, Warner Bros. Pictures Animation confirmed its upcoming theatrical projects. The studio's slate includes The Cat in the Hat, scheduled to mark its theatrical debut in November 2026, as well as several films currently in development, including Tom & Jerry, Thundercats, Meerkats, Bad Fairies, and the original musical Prehistoria from creator Vivienne Medrano. During the festival, the studio also screened the new Looney Tunes short film, Daffy Season.
The refreshed studio logo will make its official theatrical debut with the release of The Cat in the Hat later this year.
Global gaming lifestyle brand Razer has introduced the Razer x Espeon and Umbreon Collection in collaboration with The Pokémon Company International. The new product range is available through Razer.com, RazerStores worldwide, and select retail partners across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
The collection has been launched as Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary and takes inspiration from Eevee's Evolutions, highlighting the contrasting personalities of Espeon, known for its radiant energy, and Umbreon, recognised for its calm and nocturnal nature. According to the company, the collection translates these distinctive characteristics into gaming accessories designed for fans of both brands.
Designed to cater to different gaming preferences, the collection combines Pokémon-inspired aesthetics with Razer's signature gaming technologies. Each product features Razer Chroma RGB lighting, ergonomic design, and responsive controls aimed at enhancing gameplay while offering a themed visual experience.
The lineup comprises the Razer Kraken V4 X – Espeon and Umbreon Edition gaming headset, the Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless – Espeon and Umbreon Edition keyboard, the Razer Cobra – Espeon and Umbreon Edition gaming mouse, and the Razer Gigantus V2 Medium – Espeon and Umbreon Edition mousepad. Together, the products form a coordinated gaming setup inspired by the Pokémon universe.
With this launch, Razer continues to expand its portfolio of licensed gaming accessories by bringing together its gaming hardware expertise with one of the world's most popular entertainment franchises. The collection is available through the company's online platform, RazerStores, and selected retail partners across multiple international markets.
Toy and entertainment company Hasbro has expanded its portfolio of crossover collectibles with the launch of the "Transformers" x "Scooby-Doo" Mysterious Prime and Automutt action figure set. The new release combines elements from the long-running Transformers and Scooby-Doo franchises, offering fans and collectors a themed collectible inspired by the characters and vehicles from the animated mystery series.
The centrepiece of the collection is the six-inch-scale Mysterious Prime figure, which transforms from a robot into a van inspired by the iconic Mystery Machine. The transformation can be completed in 19 steps, and the figure comes with four interchangeable heads representing Shaggy, Fred, Daphne and Velma, allowing collectors to customise the display based on different members of the Mystery Inc. team.
The set also includes Automutt, a companion figure inspired by Scooby-Doo, which converts between a dog and a box of Scooby Snacks in six steps. The addition of Automutt extends the crossover theme by incorporating one of the franchise's most recognisable characters into the Transformers-inspired format.
To complement the figures, Hasbro has included several themed accessories. The package features a camera and flashlight that can be held by the Mysterious Prime figure, along with orange and green ascots referencing the signature outfits of Fred and Daphne. These accessories are designed to reflect the mystery-solving theme associated with the Scooby-Doo series.
The launch adds to Hasbro's strategy of bringing together well-known entertainment properties through limited-edition collectibles aimed at fans of multiple franchises. By combining the transforming mechanics of Transformers with the visual identity of Scooby-Doo, the company continues to expand its range of licensed crossover products.
Pre-orders for the "Transformers" x "Scooby-Doo" Mysterious Prime and Automutt action figure set have opened on Hasbro Pulse as well as through other participating retailers, ahead of its wider availability.
Children's and family apparel brand PatPat has introduced a new Disney "Moana" collection ahead of the theatrical release of Disney's live-action adaptation of the film. The collection is designed to offer everyday apparel inspired by the popular character, catering to families planning vacations, movie outings and seasonal activities.
The 12-piece collection draws inspiration from the themes and visual elements associated with Moana, featuring colour palettes influenced by ocean blues, sunset hues, sea-glass greens and tropical florals. The range also incorporates subtle character-inspired details while focusing on wearable styles for daily use.
Sandi Graham, Vice President, Design and Merchandising, PatPat shared, "I'm a surfer, so designing for the ‘Moana’ collection felt personal. The ocean has shaped how I think about confidence, adventure and freedom. We wanted to make pieces girls can actually live in, not costumes for one weekend, but everyday clothes that carry a little of that wayfinder spirit into the rest of their summer."
The collection has been designed with mix-and-match styling options, allowing families to coordinate outfits while offering individual styles for children. It is available in sizes ranging from newborn to men's XL, making it suitable for multiple age groups.
The Disney "Moana" collection is now available through PatPat's official website and Amazon.
Goliath Games has announced the launch of "Fourth Wing: Rise of the Wingleader," a new board game inspired by Rebecca Yarros' bestselling Empyrean fantasy series. The game is scheduled to release on July 15, a date widely recognised by fans as Conscription Day.
The board game will be available through major retailers including Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and Books-A-Million. In addition, participating bookstores will offer a Bookseller Variant featuring exclusive collector packaging for fans and collectors.
Julie Doverspike, Global Games Brand Director, Goliath Games said, "Fans have made 'Fourth Wing' a cultural phenomenon, and we wanted to honor that passion with a game that feels like a true extension of the Empyrean universe. From exclusive character artwork to fan-selected creative elements, every decision was made with the community in mind. We're excited to celebrate Conscription Day by inviting players to step into the world of Basgiath and forge their own path to becoming Wingleader."
Designed around the fictional Basgiath War College, the game incorporates key elements from the Empyrean series, including riders, dragons, and character-driven storylines. It features original artwork of popular characters Violet Sorrengail and Xaden Riorson, created specifically for the board game. Each game set also includes a collectible metal Tairn bookmark that doubles as a first-player marker.
The development team worked closely to capture the essence of Rebecca Yarros' fictional universe. Fans also played a role in shaping the final product through an Instagram voting campaign that selected the artwork for the dragon Tairn.
To support the launch, Goliath Games will host live gameplay sessions during Gen Con at the Lucky Duck Booth #2827 and at San Diego Comic-Con, where additional activation details in collaboration with Den of Geek will be announced.
The company will also organise social media giveaways on Conscription Day (July 15) and Threshing Day (October 1), giving fans an opportunity to win themed prize kits inspired by Fourth Wing.
Haier Appliances India has renewed its partnership with JioHotstar as the Associate Partner for the exclusive streaming of The Championships, Wimbledon in India. The collaboration marks the third consecutive year that Haier has partnered with JioHotstar for the tournament, as the company continues to engage premium sports audiences through its sports marketing strategy.
The company said the association aligns with its Sport-o-Tainment approach, which focuses on connecting with younger and digitally engaged consumers through major sporting events. Tennis, with its global following and premium audience, forms an important part of this strategy.
NS Satish, CEO, Haier Appliances India said, "At Haier India, we view sports as a powerful platform to create meaningful consumer experiences that extend beyond our products. Our renewed partnership with JioHotstar for the streaming of Wimbledon reflects this commitment, enabling us to connect with a premium, digitally savvy audience through one of the world's most prestigious premier tennis tournaments. As part of our Sport-o-Tainment strategy, we are leveraging the power of world-class sports to strengthen brand affinity and foster deeper consumer engagement. This collaboration reinforces Haier's position as an innovation-led lifestyle brand while bringing the excitement of Wimbledon closer to millions of Indian consumers."
Anup Govindan, Head of Revenue, JioStar Sports said, “We are thrilled to have Haier continuing its partnership for Wimbledon on JioHotstar for the third consecutive year. Arguably the crown jewel of the Grand Slams, Wimbledon is a global spectacle that transcends sport, steeped in unmatched tradition, that naturally draws a highly engaged, premium audience year after year. By bringing together the unparalleled prestige of the hallowed grass-courts and our exceptional digital reach, this sustained collaboration is a testament to the immense value we drive for both our viewers and Haier.”
Over the years, Haier India has expanded its Sport-o-Tainment portfolio through partnerships with several major sporting events, including the Indian Premier League, ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, ICC Champions Trophy, French Open, ATP Tour, and US Open. The company said these associations are part of its broader strategy to strengthen consumer engagement and reinforce its premium brand positioning in India.
LT Foods, a global FMCG company in the consumer food segment, has announced the fifth edition of DAAWAT World Biryani Day, introducing a new digital campaign featuring Shah Rukh Khan. As part of this year's celebration, the company is offering biryani enthusiasts an opportunity to create personalised videos featuring themselves alongside the actor.
Observed every year on the first Sunday of July, DAAWAT World Biryani Day was introduced by LT Foods in 2022 and is now a registered intellectual property (IP) of the company. Over the past five years, the initiative has evolved into an annual celebration that brings together biryani lovers across different regions, cultures and generations while highlighting the popularity of the dish.
This year's campaign combines technology, entertainment and food by allowing consumers to become part of a customised video with Shah Rukh Khan. LT Foods said the initiative is designed to offer a more interactive experience and encourage consumers to celebrate their love for biryani in a unique way.
Collectibles brand TUBBZ has expanded its licensed product portfolio with the launch of a new "The Terminator" collectible, bringing one of cinema's most iconic characters into its signature range of cosplaying rubber ducks.
Inspired by the popular film franchise, the latest release recreates The Terminator in TUBBZ's distinctive collectible style while incorporating several of the character's signature features. The design includes the iconic leather jacket and black sunglasses, reflecting the character's appearance from the films through detailed styling.
The new collection is being introduced in Collector's Edition, Boxed Edition, and Mini TUBBZ formats, offering collectors multiple display options. Each version is packaged in officially licensed "Terminator"-themed packaging designed specifically for collectors and fans of the franchise.
According to the company, the collectible has been developed with movie-inspired detailing while maintaining the recognisable TUBBZ aesthetic that transforms well-known entertainment characters into rubber duck collectibles.
The launch further expands TUBBZ's portfolio of licensed merchandise, which spans characters from films, television series, video games and other pop culture franchises. The company continues to grow its range of officially licensed collectibles by introducing new characters across multiple entertainment properties.
With the addition of "The Terminator", TUBBZ continues to strengthen its presence in the global collectibles market, offering fans new ways to engage with iconic entertainment franchises through themed merchandise.
SPORTSAs football fever grips audiences globally, brands are turning the tournament into a platform for collaborations, limited-edition products, athlete-led storytelling and fan-focused experiences.- CHARACTER AND ENTERTAINMENTThe collection translates some of the show's most recognisable visual elements into the fashion brand's signature embroidered book clutch format.
- CHARACTER AND ENTERTAINMENTThe collection has been introduced during the summer travel period and ahead of the back-to-school season.
FASHION AND LIFESTYLEBuilt around the line 'Jeena Hai Toh Colourfully Jiyo', the campaign features Mirza in a dual role and uses a visual transition to showcase the product.
Copyright © 2009 - 2026 License India.