Surge follows introduction of Golden Bear as master toy, while 8th Wonder and MV Sports also launched new lines this year.
Acamar Films’ hit preschool show Bing is proving to be just as popular at retail as on screen, achieving huge toy growth in the UK market over the past year.
Recent NPD data shows Bing listed in the top ten fastest growing toy licences from January to June 2020 in the UK.
The surge follows the introduction of Golden Bear as master toy partner in 2019 and the trend looks set to continue with two new toy licensees, 8th Wonder and MV Sports, launching in 2020.
Golden Bear’s initial toy line for autumn/winter 2019 included soft toys, figurines and wooden puzzles. It proved to be the company’s fastest selling range in years.
Last year’s success has resulted in Golden Bear doubling the number of lines, while key retailers have doubled their listings going into autumn/winter 2020.
New lines will include a Bing Lights and Sounds Train, new mini play-sets, plush, figurines and role-play items.
In addition, 8th Wonder’s first range launched in spring/summer 2020 with 11 lines including games, puzzles, shape sorters and pull-along stacking toys. A soft launch with Very and Next proved very positive, while all three lines included in Aldi’s special buy toy event in March sold out. Expanding again for autumn/winter, lines will be available from Amazon, Asda, Argos, Very, Aldi and B&M.
MV Sports will launch with three lines in autumn/winter 2020. A Bing Balance Bike, Tri Scooter and 12’ Bike will be available from B&M, Very and Aldi.
“We are thrilled with the success of Golden Bear’s fabulous toy range, which reflects the ever-growing demand for all things Bing, and are very excited about their new range which we are sure will be another huge hit,” said Louise Simmonds, head of UK licensing and merchandising at Acamar Films. “We are also delighted to welcome our new partners 8th Wonder and MV Sports, allowing us to offer an ever-expanding variety of toys which capture the essence and values of Bing and give Bingsters fun new ways to engage.”
Louise Tyrer, sales director at 8th Wonder, added: “We are greatly encouraged by the initial success of our new range of innovative wooden Bing toys and the overwhelming response from retailers and customers alike.
“We are set to welcome additional key retailers on board throughout autumn/winter 2020 and early indications for next year are showing even further growth.”
Phil Ratcliffe, sales and marketing director at MV Sports, continued: “We’re excited to include Bing in our preschool portfolio. As the UK’s leading supplier of wheeled and outdoor toys we recognise that Bing’s affinity with play, the outdoors and nature is a great fit for our product.
“MV Sports see Bing going from strength to strength in the UK and are delighted to be on this journey with Acamar Films.”
