Mattel Buys HIT Entertainment for $680M

Takes control of Thomas the Tank Engine IP

U.S. toy company Mattel is buying the British children’s TV producer HIT Entertainment, maker of Thomas the Tank Engine, Barney, and Bob the Builder. The $680 million deal gives Mattel control of all HIT’s intellectual property and marketing rights for preschool brands. But it does not include HIT Entertainment’s interest in the cable network Sprout.

Mattel, which makes Barbie and Hot Wheels toys, has been in talks with HIT’s owner, private equity company Apex Partners, for some months.

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