Discovery Communications Launches Technology Program for Kids

This back-to-school season, Discovery Communications, Inc. is helping empower tech-savvy kids with the launch of Discovery Kids Puterbugs, a technology-based program that teaches kids age 8 and under to use technology to solve problems and build important skills. Discovery Kids Puterbugs is presented by Discovery Kids and Imagine Tomorrow, the leading provider of computer classes for young children. The deal was brokered on behalf of Discovery Communications by Big Tent Entertainment, the North American licensing agent for the Discovery Kids brand.

A first-of-its-kind program, Discovery Kids Puterbugs is the only interactive experience available that teaches kids, in a fun and age-appropriate way, the full scope of technology skills in today’s digital world. In a safe environment that promotes a healthy foundation and proper tech etiquette, the program helps kids master skills that range from basic file navigation, Internet, and keyboarding skills to an understanding of the latest technology, such as mobile apps and cloud computing. The classes are currently being offered across the country in more than 700 locations, including a rollout of schools through a national partnership with early childhood education provider, Learning Care Group.

The Collective Debuts Licensing Program for The Annoying Orange

Viral sensation The Annoying Orange will break out of the virtual kitchen with the launch of the property’s first licensed program, led by The Collective. Foundation apparel and accessory partners for the juicy brand include Hybrid Apparel and Accessory Innovations, who have signed on to develop collections targeted to young men and juniors. The Hybrid Apparel and Accessory Innovations deals were brokered on behalf of The Collective by The Joester Loria Group (TJLG), the licensing agent for The Annoying Orange brand.

Created by Dane Boedingheimer, The Annoying Orange features an endearingly annoying and highly entertaining Orange that playfully heckles other fruits, vegetables, or nearby objects with puns and jokes. Product designs for the new line will feature the zany fruit stars and “puntastic” content straight from the series. Hybrid Apparel will develop a variety of Annoying Orange apparel including young men’s and junior’s tees and fleece that will be available at key specialty retailers such as Hot Topic and Rue 21 in the fall, and JC Penney, where it will launch as a mid-tier exclusive in October. In addition, Accessory Innovations will introduce a line of headwear and cold weather accessories in time for the holiday season.  Bags and accessories will debut next spring.

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Discovery Communications announced it will launch branded Discovery Fit & Health consumer products, delivering practical, proactive health and fitness lifestyle solutions for health conscious consumers. The Discovery Fit & Health brand will be represented by Discovery Communications’ North American licensing agent, The Joester Loria Group.

The first partner to launch a Discovery Fit & Health consumer product line is Inovatex, LLC, which will debut a collection of branded bedding products including sheets, comforters, blankets, duvets, pillows, mattress pads and toppers, pillow protectors, and mattress covers. Set to debut fall 2012, the products are designed to offer health related solutions by utilizing the latest new technology, innovative fabric, fiber fill, and construction. Retail distribution will target department stores, mid-tier, and specialty chains in the U.S. and Canada.

In addition to sleep management, strategic partnerships will be developed with leading retailers and manufacturers across multiple categories, including fitness products, relaxation and massage therapy, diagnostic and consumer electronics, personal care, eyewear, first aid, and publishing.

Discovery Communications and Mike Rowe have partnered with Outdoor Cap Company, Inc. to create a line of men’s and women’s headwear based on their co-brand, Dirty Jobs/mikeroweWORKS. The hats will be designed for on-the-job, outdoor use, and casual wear.

The Dirty Jobs/mikeroweWORKS headwear line inspired by Mike Rowe and his Discovery Channel TV series includes safari, beanie, and fleece hats, plus baseball caps. Additionally, Outdoor Cap will be producing branded HiBeam caps with an LED light in the visor, delivering over 30 feet of visibility. The functional line of headwear features embroidery, leather and suede reinforcements, patches, and screen printing. The hats are launching this Father’s Day 2010 at Academy Sports + Outdoors, expanding to other outdoor specialty stores, mass-market retailers, and mid-tier chains in the fall.

The deal with Outdoor Cap was brokered on behalf of Discovery Communications and mikeroweWORKS by their North American licensing agent, The Joester Loria Group (JLG).