Epic Rights has signed a deal with construction firm K'Nex to create lines inspired by legendary rock band Kiss.
K’Nex will launch Kiss buildable figures that allow consumers to build their very own Demon, Starchild, Spaceman and Catman, each boasting the band's iconic costumes and musical instruments.
K’Nex has also produced a Kiss Rock Stage Big Rig Building Set featuring two roadie figures and over 300 pieces
The K’Nex Kiss licensed products are currently available through www.knex.com and various independent toy retailers.
"K’Nex is known for both its innovation and for inspiring creativity in kids around the world,” said Michael Araten, president and CEO of K’Nex and The Rodon Group.
"We are very excited to be introducing the next generation of Kiss fans to the wonder and excitement of building their own rock band and the magical environment of the Kiss concert stage.
"It’s an excellent representation of what loyal Kiss fans and our steadfast builders expect and new consumers want - amazing value, interactivity, and building fun."
Elsewhere, Epic Rights has partnered with Bif Bang Pow! Figures for a line of Kiss figures, stationery products, tin totes, drinkware, license plate frames, nesting dolls and others, set to land in early 2015.
"As a huge Kiss fan since my early childhood in the 70s, I'm super excited to work with this legendary band to create a variety of awesome new collectables,” said Jason Labowitz, president of Bif Bang Pow!
"While we may have been given the opportunity to buy some great Kiss products over the years, the Holy Grail of toys for collectors, 3 3/4 action figures, were missing - until now. It's an honor to work on a fan-centric line plan for the action figures, as well as a complimentary set of new collectable merchandise."
Finally, Figures Toy Company will launch Kiss action figures in the style of classic figures first released in 1977-78 by the Mego Toy Company.
The figures, each boasting 16 points of articulation, will be available in 18-inch, re-released in 12-inch models andin eight-inch figures.
The Figures Toy Company Kiss figures will be distributed through Toys ”R” Us, Entertainment Earth, Kiss Museum, Kiss Army Warehouse, Comic Book & Hobby Stores and Big Bad Toy.
"We never understood why eight inch KISS action figures were not produced back in the 1970's when The Mego Toy Company had already released the 12 inch versions,” said Figures Toy Company CFO Anthony Balasco.
"Our first release will have the retro look from the 1970's, but future releases will cover all time periods in Kiss' remarkable 40 plus year musical career."
Juli Boylan-Riddles, executive vice president, global strategic partnerships and licensing at Epic Rights, added: “There continues to be an incredible demand for anything Kiss, as evidenced by the quality and quantity of licensing partners that the band and the brand attract, and we look forward to working with Bif Bang Pow!, Figures Toy and K’NEX to bring all new product to consumers.
"Kiss’ loyal, passionate fans are a marketing fantasy come true, introducing younger generations to the indelible music and celebrated antics of one of the most popular bands of all time, continuing to grow the Kiss consumer base and fuel demand for all things Kiss."
