ITV to license and promote Digimon Fusion in the UK | Key4Communications | News

Saban Brands and Marvista Entertainment announced that the all-new series and sixth installment of the Digimon franchise, consisting of 30 half-hour episodes, has been licensed to ITV for broadcast in 2014. Additionally, ITV Studios Global Entertainment (ITVS GE) will be representing Digimon Fusion for consumer products licensing and promotion in the UK.

ITVS GE launched Digimon Fusion to the UK trade at Brand Licensing Europe 2013, with product launches planned for spring 2014. Bandai will serve as global master toy licensee.

“This brand-new season of Digimon Fusion appeals to today’s tech-savvy kids, bringing them inside the digital world they interact with on a daily basis to indulge in the imaginative, adventure-packed fantasy within the Digimon Fusion storylines,” said Fernando Szew, CEO, Marvista Entertainment.

Trudi Hayward, SVP, Head of Global Merchandising, ITV Studios Global Entertainment, says: “ Digimon has been an international smash hit in television and retail for over a decade. Digimon Fusion is a major advance and interest from fans and licensees is expected to be higher than ever. That’s why ITVS GE is planning a comprehensive 360-degree franchise approach in the UK, working closely with Saban Brands to support a wide-ranging licensing strategy and retail roll out during 2014.”

The Digimon franchise, acquired by Saban Brands in 2012, is a classic anime hit. The franchise is now entering its sixth instalment after 250-plus episodes produced and broadcast globally since 1999. Digimon Fusion –the newest season of the franchise– currently airs on Nicktoons in the US and will be coming to CITV/ITV in Spring 2014.