Crunchyroll has appointed Rocket Licensing to manage the UK licensing program for the Japanese anime property “Bananya.”
As per the agreement, Rocket will create a campaign that builds on the popularity of the property in the UK region. The company will target tweens, teen girls, young women and gift buyers. Additionally, Rocket will also look to fill key categories including publishing, health and beauty, food and confectionery.
“This clever, quirky, delightful and super-cute property has already made clear its potential in some very big markets. Now, ‘Bananya’ is perfectly positioned to build a licensing program in the U.K. based on its strong online presence in this country. We’re expecting big things from these little banana-loving kittens and are looking forward enormously to working with Crunchyroll on this and many more innovative and exciting properties in future,” said Rob Wijeratna, joint managing director, Rocket Licensing.
Bioworld International has already come on board as a licensee and is currently working across several categories.
Who is Bananya?
- Bananya is a combination of the words “banana” and “nyan,” the Japanese version of the American “meow.”
- The character was originally a mascot for stationary company Q-Lia.
- Bananya follows the adventures of a group of kittens who live in bananas.
The anime currently holds agreements with major U.S retailers including Walmart, Target and Hot Topic, which stock a wide range of merchandise including plush, backpacks, t-shirts, stationery and footwear.
Crunchyroll will also showcase the “Bananya” brand at the Licensing Expo, which takes place May 22-24 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.
