Agreement Extends Hasbro’s Global Toy and Game Merchandise Rights for Marvel Characters Through 2020
Global branded play company, Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ:HAS) and The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) today announced the two companies are expanding their strategic merchandising relationship for major Disney entertainment properties Marvel and Star Wars.
The Marvel amendment extends Hasbro’s global rights to Marvel characters for an additional two years running through 2020. Hasbro will continue to develop a wide range of toys and games for Marvel’s global Universe of more than 8,000 characters, including Spider-Man, The Avengers and Iron Man.
Following the acquisition of Lucasfilm by Disney, the two companies sought to align the terms of both the Marvel and Lucasfilm agreements. The Marvel extension is in line with the term for Hasbro’s rights for the Star Wars franchise, which also runs through 2020. Both agreements cover entertainment, including all film and television properties, for the respective franchises during the period and include similar product categories.
“We are delighted to expand our agreements with Disney, Marvel and Lucasfilm and continue building on our extensive and successful long-term relationships,” said Brian Goldner, Hasbro’s President and CEO. “Disney’s entertainment slate provides extensive content for both companies to build upon for years to come.”
“We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Hasbro,” said Bob Chapek, President of Disney Consumer Products. “By delivering innovative and engaging play experiences for consumers all around the world, Hasbro is uniquely positioned to continue to translate the rich characters and storytelling of our Marvel and Star Wars franchises.”
In accordance with the extended term of the Marvel agreement, Hasbro will guarantee an additional $80 million in royalties to Disney, with respect to Marvel-branded products, contingent on additional Marvel theatrical releases.
Additionally, in anticipation of the next three Star Wars sequel motion pictures, and the release of other potential Star Wars-related entertainment, which were not contemplated under the previous agreement, Hasbro will pay up to $225 million in guaranteed payments to Disney. $75 million will be paid on signing and the remainder becomes due in accordance with the planned releases of the new Star Wars sequel films. Star Wars: Episode VII is currently planned for Summer 2015 under the direction of J.J. Abrams.