FremantleMedia Enterprises is branching out into fashion-centric character licensing and there may be no better way to start than with Rebecca Bonbon, the cute canine property from Yuko Shimizu, the creator of category giant Hello Kitty. Thanks to a deal with owner Crown Creative, Fremantle will be handling worldwide licensing (excluding Japan, Korea and China) for the sassy French bulldog and aims to take a bite out of the tween, teen and young adult merch market.

Rebecca Bonbon is a Parisian Bulldog designed by Yuko Shimizu and launched in Japan in 2005. Since then the property has moved into apparel, jewelry, bags and fashion accessories, toys and confectionery in its home market. FME intends to go on the hunt for international partners at Licensing 2008 International taking place from June 9 to 11 in New York.

The property is available for licensing and co-branding opportunities in Europe, USA, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.