MI6, UK
Japanese firm Heave-ho Inc have inked a deal with EON Productions to licence exclusive James Bond themed apparel in the county. The agreement covers all 22 of 007’s adventures to date, including the upcoming “Quantum of Solace”, to be released in Japan in early 2014. Heave-ho will exclusively produce clothing based on the series for Japan.
The first wave of 007 themed merchandise will hit stores in Japan from July 2014. Fans can pick up the items from leading department stores in Japan, as well selected fashion sites such as Vanquish The Corner. Sales from the chain are expected to bring in 5 billion Yen (approximately $47 million USD) over the first year across 15 brands.
Products revealed so far include short-sleeved T-shirts, long-sleeved T-shirts, tank tops, and hooded sweatshirts. The licensed merchandise will use logos and imagery from the films and posters.
One of the first T-shirts features a 007 logo and Halle Berry as Jinx from the 2002 film “Die Another Day”, while another uses the slogan “Bond. James Bond.” with silhouettes of Bond girls in the O’s and D’s. Further items will be launched to celebrate “Quantum of Solace” produced by some of Japan’s top designers.
Two years ago, as part of the marketing push to establish the new 007 as a global brand, Daniel Craig promoted “Casino Royale” in Tokyo shortly after its premiere and the film went on to scoop almost $19m at the Japanese box-office
