By Zanub Saeed
Toys "R" Us announced on Friday that it collaborated with DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. for the upcoming theatrical release of "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted," including exclusively selling merchandise for the film and three-part series at stores and online throughout the United States.
"Madagascar 3," set for a June 8th release in the U.S., will have many of its famous characters on display as toys and merchandise made from Fisher-Price, called the "World of Madagascar," said a press release issued by DreamWorks on Friday, as well as a full range of "lifestyle products" inspired by the series and its subsequent television spin-off, Nickelodeon's "Penguins of Madagascar."
"The 'World of Madagascar' builds on our long-standing relationship with DreamWorks Animation and our desire to bring new and innovative play experiences to kids and families through our global network of stores," Jamie Uitdenhowen, Vice President, Divisional Merchandise Manager, Learning, Toys"R"Us, U.S, stated for the press release. "Fans of the Madagascar franchise are sure to love our in-store boutique, as well as the breadth of imaginative film-inspired products."
A large display featuring merchandise for the animated feature and series will be found at the Toys "R" Us in Time Square, N.Y., revealing the new range of "World of Madagascar" toys and accessories. Among them will include video games, kids' furniture, pop up play tents, books, DVDs, board games, back-to-school, party & decor and educational software, listed the press release.
Specific merchandise on display and available for the public at Toys "R" Us and via Fisher-Price include, as noted in the press release: the "World of Madagascar" basic figurines - sets of 2.25-inch figures, such as beloved characters like Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe, and Gloria the hippopotamus. Three collectable vehicles will be available for purchase from Zoosters, straight from the feature, like "Alex in Train," "Melman in Plane," and "Marty in Luxury Extreme Assault Vehicle (LARV)."
"We are thrilled to team with the world's leading dedicated toy retailer, as the unparalleled expertise and global reach make Toys"R"Us the ideal location to launch this exciting venture," Kerry Phelan, Head of Worldwide Licensing for DreamWorks Animation, was quoted from the press release. "We believe these exclusive retail offerings will help generate even more anticipation for Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted, which takes our Zoosters on their biggest and funniest adventure yet when it arrives in theaters on June 8."
