Founded in 1991, the Character Group is probably best known for its highly popular Doctor Who toys and action figures. As well as models of Daleks and all of The Doctor’s other enemies, in 2010 they produced the definitive collectors set of replica figures of all 11 Doctors that have played the famous part. With offices in London and Manchester, as well as in China and Hong Kong, the Character Group exports its products to hundreds of companies around the world, and is listed on the AIM stock market in London.
Rapidly changing opportunities means that Character Options (as it's sometimes known) is constantly signing new toy licenses, as well as designing and producing its own ranges of toys and arts and crafts products. A good example of this is when Hasbro ceased making Action Man, the Character Group commissioned their team to create a replacement which resulted in the extremely successful series of action figures and play sets known as HM Armed Forces. Character Options shops are situated all over the UK, and most will be able to sell a great selection of all their toys.
Other Character Options toys include the biggest ‘must have’ product of Christmas 2009 – the famous Zhu Zhu Pets, previously known as Go Go Hamsters. These little battery operated creatures can be played with on their own, or be treated to a series of play environments just like a real animal. As well as making toys for many other famous brands (such as Peppa Pig, Toy Story and Fireman Sam) the company announced the launch of Character Building in January 2011. This standalone sub-brand was specifically created to work within the licensed construction toy market.
The original online book seller now sells virtually every product you can imagine... including toys!
Based in London, Gems Gifts is a bricks and mortar and online toy shop that offers a large selection of products from various major UK brands.