Macmillan Children’s Books, Sweet Cherry and Poetic Brands join Super Sema licensing programme

Macmillan Children’s Books, Sweet Cherry and Poetic Brands have joined the licensing programme for Super Sema, the first African animated kids’ superhero franchise.

The Point.1888 is helming the brand’s UK licensing push for Super Sema’s parent company, Kukua.

Macmillan Children’s Books has been appointed as master publisher for the brand in the UK, the Republic of Ireland and the Commonwealth countries. Publishing will launch in Spring 2024 across a range of formats including colour and activity books, puzzle and sticker books, chapter books, audio books; e-books and more.

Elsewhere, Sweet Cherry has acquired rights for annuals, diaries and journals, with the first Super Sema annual due out in 2024.

Poetic Brands has been appointed as the licensee partner on Daywear and Nightwear for the territory, and will produce a range of products for fans including swimwear, nightwear, clothing and luggage.

The news follows the successful launch of dolls and plush in the US with master toy partner Just Play, and an upcoming US publishing program with Penguin Random House and Bendon.

“It’s no surprise that the Super Sema franchise has amassed such a huge following so quickly and its passionate and engaged fans deserve products that are fresh and exciting,” said Katie Wilkinson, Head of Publishing and Operations at The Point.1888.

“The early brand licensing push in the US has been hugely successful, proving the consumer demand for Super Sema products. We’ve been thrilled with the incredible response we’ve had from partners and retailers so far and look forward to seeing this programme grow and grow.”

Vanessa Ford, Kukua’s Chief Brand Officer, added: “We’re excited to be able to deliver on fan demand in the UK with such top-tier companies as Macmillan Children’s Books, Sweet Cherry, and Poetic Brands.

“I want children who watch the show and read the books to see themselves in each page. I’ve seen with my own kids that positive black role models show them that they too can be the heroes, go on adventures, and save the world!”

The third season of Super Sema debuts on March 8th on YouTube.