A gang of soft and cuddly bears have moved into the heart of Basildon, thanks to local toy company Gosh International.
The Cricketers Way firm has taken over the sales and distribution of the popular Forever Friends range of soft toys, collectibles and gifts from previous owners Hallmark as part of its ongoing expansion plans.
The range, all bearing the long-lived brand's famously cute bear logo, includes the bears themselves along with key rings, resin figurines, mugs and stationery.
Gosh managing director Barry Groves said: "This is part of the planned Gosh expansion programme."
The company's portfolio also includes Mr Men, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Garfield and Pinky and Perky soft toys and a range of products linked to the popular children's TV show The Butt Ugly Martians.
It also produces a range of products related to pop acts like S Club 7 and Britney Spears.
To help exploit its new brand, Gosh has also taken over part of the Hallmark sales team - Mandy Graham, Christine Barratt, Janice Rowe, Jane Ridehalgh and Hazel Philbrick.
Published Tuesday December 18, 2001
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