Funskool India, the 60:40 joint venture between tyre manufacturer MRF and US toy maker Hasbro, is getting ready to launch its own branded toys. The toy manufacturer is also taking steps to retailing in India.

The company has distribution arrangements with some of the leading international toy brands like Japanese Tomy Takara, Danish Lego and Raven-zburger of Germany. It also has license arrangements with Walt Disney, Warner Bros. and Nickelodeon.

Its own products under Funskool have been largely generic products. Sensing the growth in the branded toy market, Funskool is now launching its own brands in the market. “Last year we launched ‘Giggles’, a range of safe, non-toxic products for infants and preschoolers. In July this year we launched activity kits under the brand ‘Handy Crafts’ and ‘Play and Learn’ puzzles. This year we will be launching another brand. The toy market seems to be catching up and we plan to get aggressive,” said Arun Mammen, chairman of Funskool India.

Meanwhile, the company has also got into retail with its first exclusive store for the ‘Lego’ brand of toys. Funskool is targeting the top cities for its retail expansion through franchise partnership. It also has plans to open exclusive Funskool stores to showcase its entire range of toys.