Springs Allies With Universal Studios

By Michele SanFilippo -- Home Textiles Today, 10/4/2004 12:00:00 AM

Fort Mill, S.C. —

Springs Industries has formed an alliance with Universal Studios Consumer Products Group to create home fashions for various Universal brands, including Universal Pictures' upcoming movies “Curious George” and “King Kong,” along with Universal literary properties “Where the Wild Things Are” and “The Little Engine That Could.”

Also in development is a program for “Sitting Ducks,” based on the animated characters of pop artist Michael Bedard and a home collection targeted to 'tween boys inspired by Universal Studios' “The Fast and The Furious,” a property that currently has licensing programs for automotive accessories, clothing and fashion accessories, sports equipment, collectible toys and artwork.

Beginning with “Curious George” and “King Kong,” Springs will create specific programs appropriate to the target audiences of each property. Springs will draw from product in categories including infant, toddler, juvenile bedding and bath, fabrics and craft, and basic bedding.

For “Curious George,” Springs will offer an infant and toddler collection, fabrics and crafts designed to coincide with the launch of the film and television series. With “King Kong,” Springs will complement the film's launch with juvenile bedding and bath as well as fabrics and crafts.

“Our continuing partnership with Universal Studios Consumer Products Group benefits our retailers as well, offering one source for products in multiple home categories,” said Tom McCaffrey, director of juvenile and specialty brands for Springs.