Genius Brands appoints master publishing partner for Rainbow Rangers
Imprint at Macmillan Children's Publishing Group has been named master publishing partner for the animated series.
Genius Brands International continues to build on the global licensing, merchandising and retail program for its highly-anticipated preschool series, Rainbow Rangers, with the appointment of the new master publishing partner for the brand, Imprint, a part of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group.
The Imprint team will develop a wide-ranging line of books, including picture books, leveled readers, story and board books for anticipated release in 2019.
“We could not be more pleased with the level of genuine enthusiasm we have received from the licensing industry for Rainbow Rangers, who recognize that we have created a truly special concept that lends itself to a robust retail program,” said Genius Brand’s SVP of global consumer products Lloyd Mintz.
“The brand captures the essence of preschool girls with fun mission-based adventures while promoting empowerment, diversity, inclusivity, environmental responsibility and more, and we look forward to working with Imprint and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and our other best-in-class licensing, retail and broadcast partners worldwide to bring the magic of the Rainbow Rangers to young fans around the world.”
“Rainbow Rangers is a show based in friendship, with wonderful storytelling layering in diversity environmental awareness, responsibility and exciting adventures. The show is also colorful and full of joy. I am thrilled to be partnering with Genius Brands to translate the empowering themes of the brand into books that will be adapted from the show, and also feature original stories,” added Erin Stein, publisher at Imprint.
Imprint joins a growing list of previously announced top-tier licensees, including Mattel, Inc. (master toy), Bentex (master apparel), Handcraft Manufacturing (packaged underwear), Global Design Concepts (bags, backpacks), Jay Franco (bedding and bath), H.E.R. Accessories (jewelry and hair accessories) and TASTE Beauty (healthy and beauty). The company anticipates the retail program to begin rolling out in the U.S. in late spring 2019, continuing through back-to-school and holiday. Currently in production on season one (52 x 11’ episodes), the CGI-animated series, Rainbow Rangers, is slated to premiere in fall 2018 on the #1 rated kids’ network, Nickelodeon’s Nick Jr.