GUND to Make Pretty Ugly Plush

GUND has partnered with Pretty Ugly LLC to produce plush characters based on the UGLYDOLL brand, which was launched in January 2001 as a line that balances cuteness with observed unattractiveness. The plush dolls will be available this summer to current and new retail customers worldwide. GUND President Bruce Raiffe is excited at the opportunity. “Cute, funny and huggable, UGLYDOLL characters are a perfect addition to the GUND portfolio of soft toy brands that delight consumers around the world,” he said. “We recognize the tremendous job that retail customers have done merchandising this brand for a decade, and will work closely with the Pretty Ugly team to insure a smooth product transition.” During this endeavor, Pretty Ugly LLC will take the time to concentrate on expanding licensing programs through various channels. “After 10 years of building UGLYDOLL into an evergreen brand, we have decided to discontinue manufacturing and selling products directly… and, instead, focus our efforts on building the brand and continuing expansion of UGLYDOLL licensing programs across new and existing categories,” said Alita Friedman, partner and chief brand officer.