The company has launched two major education-led press campaigns for the brands.
Working with children’s weekly newspaper, First News, Bandai UK has developed a comprehensive schools resource campaign by developing lesson plans and activities linking to the National Curriculum’s PSHE learning. Focusing on friendships, social skills, and recognising different personal qualities, the resources utilise the Bananas collectible Crushie characters to support pupils developing new friendships at the start of the new academic year.
Bandai has also joined forces with Science & Nature Magazine to find the Young Lab Creator of the Year in association with its National Geographic Dig Kits. Offering perfect brand alignment, Science & Nature Magazine, with support from its sister title The Week Junior, will host the initiative, which encourages hands-on STEM learning and fun. Readers are invited to invent their very own creation or ‘make’ and entrants are asked to provide their own step-by-step guide, including drawings or photos to guide fellow readers through the process. The winning idea will be produced and featured in the magazine, and the winner will be treated to a VIP visit to the 2020 Big Bang Science Fair.
“We are committed to growing both our Bananas and National Geographic ranges and supporting them year-round”, said Kirsty Mackenzie, marketing manager, Bandai UK. “Each of the media partnerships is a six-month campaign, offering longevity and high levels of consumer engagement.”
Kirsty added, “We’re really excited to see how both campaigns have bridged play and learning dynamics. Bananas is one of our best-selling properties and it’s been fantastic to showcase the brand’s creativity and relevance for children and teachers to engage with during the back-to-school period. At the other end of the spectrum, the National Geographic kits are fast becoming an evergreen go-to STEM range within our business portfolio, and we’re thrilled that the Science & Nature Magazine partnership encompasses how engaging the range and STEM play is.”
