Canuck arm a crucial peg in HIT’s global strategy

To manage its ever-growing roster of successful preschool properties in the Great White North, London, England-based HIT Entertainment has opened a new office in Toronto, Canada. Headed up by VP Pam Weston, HIT Entertainment Canada's staff of five (all of whom are locals) will manage the regional sales and distribution of HIT's wide array of video, DVD and audio products, as well as taking on responsibility for marketing, consumer products, licensing and broadcast sales for HIT's brands in Canada. The unit has a challenging portfolio to manage, considering that HIT's acquisition of Lyrick Studios in March 2001 brought the likes of Barney, Wishbone and Australian musical sensation The Wiggles to an already crowded fold that includes Bob the Builder, Angelina Ballerina, Oswald and a new property called Rubbadubbers. Veteran franchise Thomas the Tank Engine will also be joining the family shortly, as HIT works on finalizing its recently announced purchase of Gullane Entertainment.