News Briefs

DREAMWORKS ANIMATION: and Activision have signed a new, multi-year agreement that gives Activision exclusive video game rights to upcoming feature films from the company. Activision will develop and publish video game products based on DreamWorks Animation's upcoming movies, Bee Movie and Kung Fu Panda and films in development, including Rex Havoc and How to Train Your Dragon. The deal also extends Activision's video game rights beyond Shrek 3 to include potential future films in the Shrek< franchise.

FOSSIL, INC.: Richardson, TX, has begun manufacturing private-label wristwatches for Wal-Mart Stores. Men's and women's watches began selling for $33 to $60 under Wal-Mart's store brand, George, in 550 stores last month and will expand to more Wal-Mart stores next year. This is Wal-Mart's first extension of its George brand beyond sportswear and handbags.

JAKKS PACIFIC, INC.: has signed a licensing agreement with the Cat Fanciers' Association and 4Kids Entertainment, Inc., the organization's worldwide licensing and marketing agency, to develop new pet products based on the Cat Fanciers' Association brand. The new line of products, which includes toys, food, treats, apparel, carriers and beds for cats and kittens, is expected to hit retail stores in 2006.