Cartoon Network Enterprises and Nelvana Enterprises have announced an agreement giving the cable network's consumer products division U.S. licensing and merchandising rights for the Bakugan anime property.  This will mark the first time that the Cartoon Network's consumer products division will be the licensing agent for a show running on the network that the Cartoon Network did not create.

Bakugan, which debuts on the Cartoon Network on February 24th, is a Japanese/Canadian co-production from Nelvana Enterprises, Spin Master Ltd., Sega Toys Ltd., TMS Entertainment, Ltd., and Japan Vistec, Ltd., with animation by TMS and Japan Vistec (see 'Bakugan, an International Multi-Media Property').  With Spin Master (Bakugan's co-developer and master toy licensee) Cartoon Network Enterprises will work to create a comprehensive consumer products programs by adding a number of key catgories. 

This fall CNE will attempt to expand the brand's presence at retail beyond the Spin Master toys with the release of games, puzzles, youth electronics and home entertainment.  A second wave of Bakugan merchandise will launch in the spring of 2009 and will include apparel, accessories, and books.