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4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE), a global provider of children's entertainment, has been named the worldwide licensing agent for QUINTS®, the line of five popular two-inch dolls which captivated the hearts of kids and parents alike when they hit store shelves in the early 1990’s. The Quints introduced an innovative series of playsets, clothing and environments designed specifically for the five siblings, composed of three girls and two boys. That announcement was made today by Alfred R. Kahn, Chairman and CEO, 4Kids Entertainment. Debuting in 1990, this unique line of quintuplet baby dolls caught on quickly with the American market, rising to the top ranks of that year’s best-selling doll list. QUINTS were equally successful in Europe, Latin America and Asia, topping best-seller lists in over 15 countries by 1991. From the introduction of three different sets of QUINTS, the line expanded to 11 varieties, along with a wide array of matching QUINTS accessories and playsets ranging from bicycles and wading pools to fashion outfits and rocking horses. 4Kids Entertainment will seek a global master toy licensee to produce the 21st Century version of these quintessential kids, originally produced and distributed by Tyco Toys (which was ultimately acquired by Mattel). In addition, the organization will be soliciting licenses in several key categories to extend the line beyond the dolls. “QUINTS came along like a thunderbolt,” said Kahn, who developed plans to relaunch the brand with Merry Loomis, daughter of Bernard Loomis, who worked with the late respected toy executive to create the toy line in 1989. “Given that the original QUINTS fans are now mothers themselves, we have a whole new generation of girls who will love the updated QUINTS as passionately as their mothers did in the early 90’s.” Ms. Loomis has reunited with original QUINTS inventors Chris Ericson and Vinny Baiera for this 21st century brand reintroduction. |
