Card and homeware deals bring unique design brand to major markets in two continents

JELC, the global licensing agent for Lillipippins, has announced major new deals for the design property, Lillipippins, in Australia and — for the first time ever — the US. The property, based on beautifully crafted representations of tiny woodland and wild animals, has secured licences in the US greeting cards and Australian home-ware markets. US greeting card, gift and lifestyle company Pictura will be producing a range of quality greeting cards, There will be 24 cards in the Pictura range sized 117mm by 172mm (folded) and printed with a matte varnish finish and pearl foil frame accents. Pictura, which has over 2,000 cards and hundreds of artists in its range, is a major name in quality greeting cards in the US with access to a countless number of outlets — including both specialist card shops and major stores — across the country. The Lillipippins range will be available at retail for $2.95.

Ashdene, an Australian-owned company that has been supplying quality home-wares for nearly 20 years, will be offering boxed mugs and tea-sets for both the Australia and New Zealand markets. Ashdene is a market leader known for exceptional design and quality with a portfolio containing artists of the highest calibre. Its output sells through major department stores as well as lifestyle, giftware and kitchenware specialists across Australia and New Zealand. The Lillipippins boxed mugs and tea-sets will be available at retail from AUS$16.95.

Products in both ranges will highlight award-wining designer Lisa Johnson’s representations of tiny woodland and wild animals relaxing on — or peering round — household objects that tower over them. The effect is reminiscent of the delightful, nostalgic keepsakes of centuries past but with an appealingly modern wit and charm — perfect for quality greetings cards and home-wares with a difference.

These Lillipippins deals underline the global potential of this charming and beautiful brand. Licences have already been signed for such diverse markets as Russia, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, UK, Australia and now the US. Lillipippins’ appeal is universal but the elegance of the designs and the high-end nature of much of the product have built a strong market for the brand among adult females in all the countries where it has so far launched.

The quality, charm and originality of Lillipippins give it enormous potential in numerous retail categories. That’s why JELC is promoting Lillipippins as an ideal brand for greetings and stationery, publishing, new media, housewares and décor, giftware, nursery products, apparel, confectionery and food, and health and beauty products.

Bryan D’Angelo from Pictura, says, “We are always on the lookout for artists and work that fit in with our reputation for both originality and quality design. Lillipippins, with its combination of a nostalgic feel and quirky, modern humour, is a wonderful addition to our portfolio.”

Tim Gillespie, Managing Director of Ashdene, says “Our aim is to find artists who can produce remarkable, original designs that will both grace a buyer’s home and be part of wonderful talking pieces that they can enjoy with their friends. Lisa Johnson does just that, bringing beauty, charm and a unique look to home-ware.”

Jane Evans, Joint Managing Director, JELC, says: “Lillipippins has a look and feel that we were sure would appeal enormously to quality, design-led licences like Pictura and Ashdene. But even we have been surprised by the diversity of the markets that have taken this brand to their hearts. Lillipippins is a very English brand — but one with a very international appeal.”