Q Pootle 5 Signs With WDR mediagroup
Skwigly
Following the hugely successful TV launch of Q Pootle 5 in Germany, the producers of the pre-school animated series have struck a deal with WDR mediagroup, which will see the firm act as the brand’s licensing and merchandising agents in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
WDR mediagroup will oversee the roll-out of the licensing programme in the region following the success of Q Pootle 5 on KiKA, where it achieved an impressive 54.5% audience share amongst 3-5 year olds, and an equally impressive 25.4% amongst 6-9 year olds, in the 6-7pm slot.
Q Pootle 5 is based on the best-selling books by children’s author and illustrator Nick Butterworth and follows the adventures of the friendly little alien and his friends, as they tackle the everyday problems of the final frontier. The series, which is produced by Snapper Productions, animated by Blue Zoo and distributed internationally by ZDF Enterprises, airs in the UK on CBeebies and has to-date been sold to over 70 countries worldwide.
Ben Butterworth, Snapper Productions, said: “Q Pootle 5 launched in Germany with incredible viewing figures – and quickly established itself as one of the highest rated children’s shows across all networks. We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with WDR mediagroup for licensing and merchandise; the company is a major player in the region with a proven track record in the pre-school market and with their passion and appreciation of Q Pootle 5 we know Pootle and his chums are in safe hands.”
Andrea Zuska, WDR mediagroup, said: “We are proud to represent Q Pootle 5 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland as well as selected other territories and look forward to cooperating with Snapper Productions on this charming and original children’s show. It fits perfectly into our portfolio of high quality brands. We are convinced that our licensees will appreciate the freshness of the characters, the imaginative world of Okidoki and the central message of friendship and adventure.”
In the UK, a range of Q Pootle 5 products hit the shelves in autumn/winter 2014, including DVDs from Proper Distribution, TV tie-in books from Walker Books, a standalone magazine from Egmont, a range of games and puzzles from Jumbo and apparel from C&M Licensing. Q Pootle 5 accessories from VMC and a range of underwear, socks and onesies from C&M Licensing will also be arriving in stores in 2015.