BBC WORLDWIDE APPOINTS FLUID WORLD TO

EXPAND LICENSING CATEGORIES FOR TOP GEAR

BBC Worldwide has appointed Fluid World to handle select categories in the ever-expanding Top Gear licensing programme.  Merchandise for the world’s biggest motoring brand has been a winner for the BBC’s commercial arm since 2006 when the first product launched.

Top Gear is one of the most-watched series on TV in the UK, and now around the world where it is seen in over 100 countries. Top Gear merchandise first came to market when Marks and Spencer launched a gift range from Peter Black in 2006. An extensive range of Top Gear product hit retail in Autumn/Winter 2009 with categories including board games, toiletries, stationery and remote control cars.

In this new deal, BBC Worldwide has charged Fluid World with developing Top Gear licensing programmes in the UK for new categories including luggage and travel accessories, car accessories and electronics. All other categories will continue to be managed in-house at BBC Worldwide with Fluid World reporting to Richard Hollis, Head of UK Licensing.

Richard Hollis, Head of UK Licensing said: “Top Gear has been our fastest growing merchandising property in many categories, most notably in gift, but the brand licensing potential for this brand – we believe – is bigger still. We have brought Fluid World on board to focus on a select number of categories, to deliver high quality merchandise that reflects the production values of the show.” 

Andrew Lane, CEO of Fluid World said: “"Fluid World is very proud to be working with BBC Worldwide on such a prestigious property. They have successfully developed Top Gear into a lifestyle brand and we look forward to contributing to its further growth and success."

~Ends~

For further information please contact Anna Kingsley at BBC Worldwide on 020 8433 3022/07799670255 or email anna.kingsley@bbc.com