The Drone Racing League and Toy State Announce Multi-Year, Racing Toy-Drone Partnership
Nikko Air DRL Products to be available in stores in the fall of 2017
NEW YORK, Dec. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The Drone Racing League (DRL), the premier drone racing circuit for elite FPV pilots around the world, announced a three-year licensing deal with Toy State, a toy industry leader and innovator for more than 30 years. The deal centers on the first and only co-branded, racing toy drone from Toy State's upcoming drone line, Nikko Air.
Nikko Air DRL Drones will be available in stores in the fall of 2017, hitting retail shelves on the heels of DRL's second season, which will air this coming summer. Toy State is committed to a co-branded multi-media marketing campaign to launch this new line that will run both in the United States and throughout key European markets.
"We're incredibly excited to develop the Nikko Air DRL Drones with Toy State and inspire the next generation of elite drone pilots," said DRL CEO/Founder, Nicholas Horbaczewski. "Nikko is the most respected name in RC vehicles and partnering with them as they introduce this new line of flying RC toys into the market is a natural fit for us. Young fans watching DRL on ESPN and Sky Sports who want to be like their favorite DRL pilots will have an unprecedented opportunity next year to experience the thrill at home."
"When Toy State decided to enter the drone category, we knew we wanted to partner with the best of the best," said Toy State president Andy Friess. "DRL is the premier international drone racing league for elite pilots and drone fans, so we are thrilled to be working with them on this new line. Nikko Air is focused on bringing innovation to the drone category, and Toy State is excited about sharing these products with DRL fans and drone enthusiasts worldwide!"
Toy State is the second major brand partnership deal for the DRL in the past month. On November 10th Bud Light signed on as the title sponsor of the 2017 Bud Light DRL Tryouts.
About DRL
DRL is the premier drone racing circuit for elite FPV pilots around the world. A sports and media company, DRL combines world-class flight skill and proprietary technology to create thrilling drone racing content with mass appeal. In 2016 DRL is hosting a global events series culminating in a World Championship. Founded by Nicholas Horbaczewski in 2015, DRL is a privately held company headquartered in NYC. For more information on the 2016 race season, visit www.drl.io. To join the conversation, follow DRL on Facebook at facebook.com/thedroneracingleague, on Twitter @DroneRaceLeague, and on Instagram @thedroneracingleague.
About Toy State
For 30 years, Toy State has been an innovator and industry leader in the manufacture of 'lights & sound' and R/C toy vehicles. Founded in 1984, Toy State's portfolio features their flagship Road Rippers®, Nikko™ and Nikko™ Air brands. The company also boasts Hot Wheels™, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles™, Barbie®, Thomas & Friends™, DC Comics™ and WWE® lights & sound and radio controlled vehicles, as well as Cat® and Cat® Preschool construction toys. Working with the world's leading auto, lifestyle and entertainment properties, and Caterpillar, the leading manufacturer of construction equipment, Toy State products provide hours of enjoyment for kids of all ages.
Media Contact:
Toy State: Ian Meropol, imeropol@a-g.com
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