Ahead of its Nickelodeon debut in the U.S., The Rainbow Group’s 44 Cats inked a partnership with Bandai America.
Bandai was appointed by master toy partner Toy Plus to distribute the full range of 44 Cats toys in the U.S. and Canada. A collection including figurines, play sets, plush, and musical toys will debut at retailers early next year. Simba Dickie Group’s is the exclusive distributor for Europe and the Middle East.
“We’re really excited to launch the 44 Cats toy line to the U.S. and Canada,” says Shusuke Takahara, CEO at Bandai America. “Over the last year, we’ve been looking at new lines to distribute and couldn’t be happier to partner with companies like Rainbow and Toy Plus. From figurines to plush, we can’t wait to see consumer reactions as they collect toys from the adventurous and adorable TV show.”
Produced by Rainbow (The Winx Club) in collaboration with Antoniano Bologna and Rai Ragazzi, 44 Cats follows four kittens — Lampo, Milady, Pilou, and Meatball — who form a band called the Buffycats. Living and rocking out in the Clubhouse — a garage at Granny Pina’s house — the quartet’s adventures explore themes of friendship and altruism, tolerance, diversity, and acceptance.
The series will air regularly weekdays at 10 a.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon.
