Franklin forges new master toy partnership in the U.K.

Franklin forges new master toy partnership in the U.K.

Nelvana inks series of European deals for homegrown hit

NEW YORK, Feb. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- A TV mainstay and preschool favorite in North America, Nelvana's Franklin is now making merchandising inroads in the U.K. and expanding his already significant presence in France.

Following a successful launch on FIVE TV's popular Milkshake! Slot, Martin Yaffe International has been appointed master toy licensee for the U.K. and are creating a range of product designed to entertain and engage British children. Nelvana is currently finalizing Franklin's U.K. partner roster for a full-scale program launch (date TBA).

"We are confident in the international potential of our little turtle and trust that the U.K. market will encounter success levels similar to those of France and Scandinavia," said Marie-Laure Marchand, VP of European Merchandising and Marketing.

There are now more than 40 licensees on the French program, including new health & beauty licensee Air Val International and SCA Personal Care, which has just signed on to develop a line of Franklin-branded training pants (marketed under its Up & Go banner) in hypermarkets, supermarkets, pharmacies and baby outlets in France and Italy.

On the promotional front, Nelvana has secured deals with major promotional partners such as Lu, Amora, Quick (QSR) and Bledina over the past year - no small feat for a preschool-targeted property. Stay tuned for a promotional partnership announcement between Nelvana and one of France's largest food category players.

On a Europe-wide level, Nelvana has finalized a deal with Ouat for a new Franklin interactive DVD set to launch in April 2005.

"Slow and steady wins the race," said Doug Murphy, Executive VP of Business Development. "Franklin's popularity continues to grow across Europe and we look forward to watching him make many new friends in the United Kingdom."

About Nelvana Limited

Nelvana Limited is one of the world's leading international producers and distributors of children's programming and products. Its current stable of franchise properties includes Emmy Award(R)-winning and globally renowned brands such as Rolie Polie Olie, Babar, Franklin and Beyblade. Nelvana is owned by Corus Entertainment, a Canadian-based media and entertainment company. Corus is a market leader in both specialty TV and Radio. The company's other interests include music, television broadcasting and advertising services. A publicly traded company, Corus is listed on the Toronto (CJR.NV.B) and New York (CJR) Exchanges. Corus' website can be found at www.corusentertainment.com.


Source: Corus Entertainment Inc.; Nelvana Limited

CONTACT: and for images or interview requests: Amanda Burgess, Senior
Publicist, Corus Entertainment/Nelvana, (416) 530-2247,
amanda.burgess@corusent.com


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