– Oliver the Otter wades into Japanese market

Oliver the Otter and Friends, a group of animal pals created by British artist Kate Veale, is about to debut in Japan through Japanese retailer and manufacturer Arkace.

Arkace will be supplying Oliver the Otter products to more than 500 outlets, including retail and department stores, wholesalers and mail-order companies.

-X-Men and Baby Tumbles among Toy Biz’s biggest sellers

The X-Men and Spider-Man, along with the new vehicle and construction toys Battle Builders, helped to drive a 25 percent boost in net sales of boys toys at Toy Biz stores in the U.S. during the third quarter ending September 30. The increase amounts to US$26.3 million. Net sales of girls promotional dolls jumped by 36 percent, totaling US$23.6 million, thanks to the Take Care of Me Twins and the expanded Baby Tumbles/Baby Headstand line.