Mega Brands builds Thomas range

The firm has entered into a multi-year, global licensing agreement with Hit to develop construction toys based on Thomas & Friends.

Under the global, multi-year agreement, it has the rights to develop all-new construction toy sets based on the characters of Thomas & Friends and destinations from the Island of Sodor world.

The range will launch worldwide in the spring of 2010, marking Thomas & Friends’ 65th anniversary.

"We’re excited and proud to have this wonderful opportunity to partner with Hit Entertainment, and build on the immense worldwide popularity of Thomas & Friends to grow our preschool portfolio," said Vic Bertrand, chief innovation officer of Mega Brands.

"Mega Bloks are the world’s number one pre-school construction brand and it’s a natural fit to align with the world’s number one preschool brand for boys. We look forward to developing a new line based on the engaging characters and timeless stories of Thomas & Friends, and to inspire creativity and imagination through Mega Bloks for years to come."

"We are thrilled to work with a world-class toy partner like Mega Brands to create all-new Thomas & Friends construction sets,” said Gary Krakower, senior vice president, US Licensing and Live Events, Hit Entertainment.

"Across the globe, children will enjoy imagining and building with Mega Bloks and Thomas & Friends, building new destinations and recreating exciting railroad adventures, as children have with Thomas for nearly 65 years."