Maya the Bee – the beloved childhood character of millions in Russia - comes back to the Russian market as a perspective license. Studio 100 International and Rio License are pleased to announce the first licensing deals in the key product categories.

Grand Toys has signed up as mastertoy and is developing a full range of toys and games. The first launch is scheduled this fall with a line of feature plush, playset, figurines, vehicles (from IMC), plush, wooden toys as well as infant products. This release coincides with the re-run of Maya Classic on Karusel channel across Russia.

A bigger toys and game range will follow in 2013 to support the release of the new Maya 3D series on Karusel television starting in March 2013.

Sergey Kiselev, president of "Grand Toys" Groups commented: “Grand Toys already has about 15 licensing contracts in its portfolio. But Maya the Bee is the brand we are putting big stakes on. We have every reason to say it is a classic since for many of us this character is a childhood memory and we strongly believe in its success in the Russian market. Our range of Maya the Bee products is impressive: it varies from bath figures to interactive educational games”.

Egmont as our master publisher will develop a wide range of various book formats, activity books and magazines that should hit shelves early 2013.

On the confectionary side, Chupa Chups will create Maya lollipops, chocolate balls with surprises as well as fruit jellies. Millions of Maya branded Chupa Chups products will be in the Russian market at the beginning of 2013.

Roman Fedotov, Managing Director at RIO licensing says: “We are very glad that one of the most popular children’s brand that is familiar to us since the times of the Soviet Union is still relevant today. Maya the Bee classic series is one of the most popular children’s programs on Russian TV. And when the 3D-series airs, the audience’s affection for the brand will grow even bigger. Our licensees have designed a wide range of goods that undoubtedly will bring joy to children and their parents. We are looking forward to the premiere of Maya the Bee 3D-series in Spring 2013 and we are absolutely sure that Maya will have a successful future in Russia”.

“Maya the Bee has always been a popular character in Russia and we are excited about introducing new generations to this beloved Property. Having such first class partners locally speaks for itself and reinforces our confidence in the international scope of our little bee,” says Marie-Laure Marchand, International Licensing Director at Studio 100.