HE “SCOOP”:  VIZ MEDIA LICENSES RECENTLY GRANTED

THE “PROPERTY”: NARUTO
At retail, NARUTO consistently ranks as one of the top graphic novel titles in the U.S. and one of the most popular titles serialized in SHONEN JUMP magazine, both published by VIZ Media. Targeting tweens and teens, NARUTO takes place in a world where ninja are the ultimate power. Through exciting adventures, the young ninja learn the importance of friendship, teamwork, loyalty, hard work, creativity, ingenuity, and right versus wrong. NARUTO is considered one of the most popular animated shows in Japan’s history, and successfully launched in the U.S. on Cartoon Network and on YTV in Canada September 2005 and is still successfully airing on both. For more information please visit  www.NARUTO.com.  

THE “PLAYERS”:
Licensor: VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs, audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages. VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.

Contact Information: Evelyn Dubocq      
   Senior Director, Public Relations       
   VIZ Media        
(415) 644-9238/ This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

THE “LICENSEE”: Boston America Corporation
Headquartered in Woburn, MA Boston America Corp. manufactures a line of licensed energy drinks, tinned candies and cosmetics. Their distribution lies primarily in the specialty market and their product can be found at such ubiquitous retailers as Spencer Gifts, Hot Topic, and FYE records. They also have a distribution network that reaches Mom and Pop toy, comic, gaming, candy and gift stores throughout the US and Canada.

Licensee Contact Information:  Matt Kavet
     President
    Boston America Corp.
    (781) 933-3535 x-249/ This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

THE “PRODUCTS”: The following products have been licensed: 
Energy Drinks

THE “TERRITORY”: The following territory/territories include:
U.S. and CANADA

THE “CATEGORIES”: The following category/categories pertain to the license that has been recently granted:
Beverages

The following category/categories pertain to the license that is available now:
Food/Confectionery, Health and Beauty