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Popsicle, the heritage ice pop brand under the Unilever umbrella, has announced a strategic licensing collaboration with BBC Studios to kick off the 2026 trading year. The partnership centres on the launch of a new product line featuring Bluey, the globally popular animated character.
Launching this month, the collaboration aims to leverage the immense cultural footprint of the Bluey franchise to drive engagement in the frozen novelty aisle, targeting the family demographic with a product that balances "pester power" with parental approval.
Product Design and Flavour Profile
The new SKU features a moulded design replicating Bluey’s face, a complex manufacturing format designed to create an immediate visual connection for young fans upon unwrapping.
Technical Specifications:
Flavour: A "burst of mixed berry" combining strawberry and blueberry notes.
Clean Label Focus: Formulated with colours derived from natural sources.
Exclusions: Contains no artificial dyes or synthetic colours.
Sugar Content: Marketed as containing "less sugar," reinforcing the brand's commitment to parent-approved ingredient decks.
Strategic Alignment
The partnership aligns Popsicle with one of the most significant properties in children's entertainment. By associating with Bluey—a show celebrated for its depiction of family connection and imaginative play—Popsicle reinforces its brand equity as a facilitator of joyful family moments.
Lisa Vortsman, U.S. Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at The Magnum Ice Cream Company (which oversees the Popsicle brand), commented on the cultural resonance of the IP:
"Bluey is a phenomenon that resonates deeply with kids and parents alike, and that made it the perfect partner for Popsicle. This collaboration is special because it creates more moments of joy for families by bringing a delicious Popsicle treat into an experience kids can enjoy."
Jill Cook, Senior Director of Licensing at BBC Studios, added: "Bluey celebrates family and everyday play and we're happy to team up with Popsicle to bring this fun new treat to families for those joyful moments together."
Commercial Availability
The Popsicle Bluey ice pops are rolling out to major retailers nationwide starting January 2026.
Format: Six-count packs.
Pricing: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $6.29.
