One of the big licenses left hanging following the sudden closure of Toy State last year officially has a new home.
Funrise inked a new multi-year deal with Caterpillar to produce, distribute, and market an all-new line of realistic toys inspired by Cat construction machines and vehicles. Early samples and prototypes were previewed at Toy Fair New York this past February.
“Caterpillar is a widely recognized and trusted brand, and we are thrilled to create toys that bring the dynamic and larger-than-life construction world of Caterpillar to kids and families around the world,” says Randy Shoemaker, senior vice president, global brand marketing, Funrise.
The new Cat line from Funrise will include a variety of toys in several scales for both indoor and outdoor play. Machines will be produced across categories with lights and sounds, radio control, free-wheeling and metal, all made for kids ages 3 and up.
“For over 90 years, Cat products and services have been helping customers build a better world,” added Kenny Beaupre, global licensing manager, Caterpillar Inc. “In a similar way, Cat toys are used by boys and girls around the globe to build whatever their imaginations dream. Toys are educational, instructive and nurture creativity. Together with Funrise, we look forward to bringing increased innovation to the Cat toy line.”
