The Sharpe Company is spotlighting a mix of emerging and established properties ahead of Licensing Expo, highlighting what it calls the latest “kidult pop trends” shaping the licensing landscape.
At the center of the lineup is Pembe the Pink Cat, positioned within the “cozy cute” category and known for affirmation-driven content shared widely across social platforms. The brand is joined by Naughty Naughty Pets, which is marking its 25th anniversary with a new master toy licensee and continued digital engagement.
Also featured is Humphrey’s Corner, created by Sally Hunter. With more than 30 published titles and a history in nursery and specialty retail, the property continues to expand through new programs in the U.K. and beyond.
On the “comedic cute” side, Bear in Underwear represents a humor-driven extension of kidult culture, with growth across publishing and animation. Meanwhile, the portfolio’s “spooky comedic” edge includes work from Steven Rhodes, Todd Goldman, and Rob Corradetti, alongside legacy properties such as The Rocky Horror Show.
Together, the collection reflects a broader trend toward nostalgic yet subversive properties that appeal to both younger consumers and adult fans. The Sharpe Company presents the portfolio at Booth No. A132 during the show, alongside collaborators including Matrix Brand Dynamics, as it looks to expand licensing opportunities across categories.
For more information, visit licensingexpo.com.
Meet The Toy Book Team at Licensing Expo!
The Adventure Media & Events team will be present at Licensing Expo with new issues of The Toy Book and The Pop Insider set to debut on May 19. Visit us at Booth No. F106 to grab The Toy Book‘s 2026 Licensing & Entertainment Issue (featuring The Licensing Book supplement), and the spring edition of The Pop Insider. Both issues are now in production. To book your space in our new issues, please contact Jackie Breyer, James Devin, or Stephanie Katz.
