Reston, VA (Feb. 17, 2017) – The National Wildlife Federation announced today that it has signed new licensing partnerships representing diverse product categories to expand its iconic Ranger Rick brand across digital, print, and kid-focused products. With leading partners including MerryMakers, Inc., Ruckus Learning, Sage Licensing Group and Playlife Company, Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Stores, Once Kids, and The Quarto Group, 2017 product lines will offer exciting and creative digital, print, and playtime experiences for Ranger Rick fans and their families to enjoy. The announcement was made during Toy Fair 2017 in New York City.
“As we continue to evolve and grow Ranger Rick’s world into new areas and experiences, we are collaborating with like-minded partners who share the National Wildlife Federation’s vision for creating engaging, sustainable and conservation-minded products for today’s children and families,” said Deana Duffek, head of brand licensing, National Wildlife Federation.
Since January 1967, Ranger Rick has introduced millions of children and their families to the wonders of wildlife and nature through the National Wildlife Federation’s award-winning Ranger Rick magazine. The Ranger Rick brand now includes Ranger Rick magazines for 7-12 year olds and Ranger Rick Jr. for ages 4-7, Ranger Rick Cub for babies and toddlers, as well as numerous book collections and educational resources. The 2017 partnerships will increase the reach of Ranger Rick and his friends with a range of engaging experiences that help kids of all ages learn about, explore and protect our natural world.
The National Wildlife Federation’s new licensing partners for the Ranger Rick brand are:
MerryMakers, Inc.
The National Wildlife Federation is collaborating with MerryMakers, Inc. to bring Ranger Rick off the page and into arms of kids everywhere. This new line of plush dolls is designed to encourage young nature lovers to protect wildlife and experience the natural world. First up in the line is Ranger Rick himself, measuring 12” and equipped for action with a ranger hat and National Wildlife Federation backpack. The new plush line will launch in April 2017.
Ruckus Learning
Ruckus Learning will work with the National Wildlife Federation to produce new Ranger Rick interactive storybook learning apps in mobile markets in the U.S., Canada, and other worldwide territories. Ruckus’ Ranger Rick’s Adventures: Boomer & the Coyote iReader features the newly-designed Rick Raccoon and his animal friends, and will debut on iOS devices in spring 2017. Additional Ranger Rick iReader titles will be released throughout the year. As part of the agreement, Ruckus will also distribute digital versions of Ranger Rick and Ranger Rick Jr. magazines, education guides for teachers and parents, and enhanced eBook versions of Ranger Rick print titles from Rowman & Littlefield (under the Muddy Boots imprint).
Sage Licensing Group and Playlife Company
Sage Licensing Group and Playlife Company are joining forces to assist The National Wildlife Federation in building a comprehensive program of interactive and digital experiences and consumer products for its Ranger Rick brand with licensors from across the globe. For more information, please contact germaine@playlifemedia.com or bruce@slglicensing.com.
Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Stores
The National Wildlife Federation is working with Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Stores on a special promotion for their kid’s meal program. Kids and their families who purchase a Braum’s Kids meal will receive Ranger Rick and Ranger Rick Jr magazines as free gifts. The anticipated promotion, which will run from April to June 2017, will offer four collectable items in the series including printed magazines of both Ranger Rick and Ranger Rick Jr, as well as a Ranger Rick’s Trail Mix Sampler music CD. The Braum’s kid’s meal program will be distributed to all Braum’s restaurants.
Once Kids
Once Kids, maker of eco-friendly toys that kids make their own, are collaborating with the National Wildlife Federation to create a special Ranger Rick Jr. -themed collection of all wood toys. Bringing the magic of Ranger Rick to life for a new generation of kids, the collection features collectible wooden Ranger Rick Jr. characters, themed wooden brick construction sets called Eco-Bricks, and an assortment of wood and felt playsets and cars. The new line will debut during the 2017 Holiday season.
The Quarto Group
In spring 2017, The National Wildlife Federation and The Quarto Group are partnering to launch new series of Ranger Rick titles with Walter Foster Jr. The Ranger Rick Kids’ Guide Series, with built-in compasses and all the tips and tricks needed to camp or fish, will inspire kids to get up, get out, and connect with nature. Ranger Rick’s Wildlife Around Us Field Guide & Drawing Book will help children identify and draw the wildlife around them in their own naturalist’s notebook. With Ranger Rick’s message of getting outside and learning about nature, and Walter Foster Jr.’s high-quality, affordable books, this partnership is sure to spark excitement and curiosity among kids and inspire lifelong interests.
About the National Wildlife Federation
The National Wildlife Federation is America's largest conservation organization, uniting all Americans to ensure wildlife thrive in a rapidly changing world. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
About the National Wildlife Federation’s Licensing Partners
www.quartoknows.com
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