The Beanstalk Group Brings Ford into Exciting NewApparel, Toy, Publishing and Food Products

December 9, 2009, New York, NY., — Ford Motor Company is further diversifying its licensed product offerings, finding new ways to reward brand loyalists and introduce the brand to future consumers. Through its exclusive licensing agency, The Beanstalk Group, Ford has secured several new licensee relationships that build upon the program’s tremendous success and robust retail presence.

“Beanstalk is pleased to help Ford leverage its distinct brand heritage to offer consumers new ways to embrace this iconic American brand,” said Michael Stone, president and CEO of The Beanstalk Group. “In addition, we are incredibly excited to help Ford enter into categories that establish new retail relationships.”

New license agreements and product launches include:

• C-Life, a leader in the apparel industry, is launching a Ford t-shirt collection to be sold exclusively at Old Navy locations across the country. Products will hit the shelves of approximately 1,000 Old Navy doors for Holiday 2009 and will initially include four Ford-branded t-shirts. This agreement marks the first time Ford licensed products have been offered at Old Navy locations.
• Licensee Rizzoli launched its new Ford Mustang book, Mustang: An American Classic, at major national booksellers in September 2009. The book, which includes hundreds of photographs, celebrates all aspects of the genesis of the iconic car and explores its significance in American pop culture. As the Ford Mustang celebrates its 45th anniversary in 2009, Mustang: An American Classic is a perfect gift for car enthusiasts.
• Ford Mustang Energy Shots will be developed by licensee Core-mark, one of the largest full-service marketers and distributors of packaged goods in North America. Leveraging the power, performance and excitement for which the Mustang brand is known, Mustang energy shots will be a compelling way to extend Ford licensed products into new channels and to new consumers. Products are expected to launch in 2010.
• New licensee Hot Sauce Harry’s will be launching Ford-branded hot sauce in time for Holiday 2010. Product distribution will initially include Ford dealers and other related automotive specialty stores. Spin Master, a leader in children’s toys, has joined the Ford licensing program and will launch a Radio Control Wall Climber featuring the new Ford Mustang for Summer 2010.

“Beanstalk has helped us identify significant new growth opportunities that increase brand awareness for Ford and its nameplates,” said John Nens, Director, Ford Global Brand Licensing. “These new strategic partners will help drive significant growth for the Ford lifestyle program next year.”

About Ford Motor Company’s Licensing Program The Ford licensing program has grown to include over 300 licensees across multiple categories such as toys and collectibles, interactive, auto accessories, apparel and personal accessories, housewares, publishing, social expression, and gifts and novelties, among others. Ford is the 25th largest licensor as ranked by License Magazine, with products sold at every retail channel from mass to automotive specialty to mid-tier around the world.