Barbie signs Japanese licensing partner

ITOCHU will create new fashion-forward products and brand collaborations for the doll franchise in the region.
May 27, 2021

Mattel has inked a new multi-year deal giving ITOCHU Corporation the greenlight to develop a licensing program for Barbie in Japan.

Representing international fashion brands including FILA, Paul Smith and LeSportsac, ITOCHU will create new fashion-related products and set up brand collaborations.

Barbie has been driving significant revenue in recent quarters, with worldwide gross billings up by 86% in Q1, according to Mattel’s financial report for the quarter. And this strength helped the dolls segment overall increase its quarterly gross billings by 69% to US$381 million.

To fuel the growth, Mattel has been expanding its library of Barbie content, recently launching design competition series Barbie Fashion Battle and producing two new specials that will premiere later this year.

About The Author
News editor for Kidscreen. Ryan covers tech, talent and general kids entertainment news, with a passion for kids rap content and video games. Have a story that's of interest to Kidscreen readers? Contact Ryan at rtuchow@brunico.com

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