“Precious Moments” Licensing Program Expands Into New Categories Reaching an Enthusiastic Young Female Audience
Carthage, MO — Founded over 45 years ago by Samuel J. Butcher, Precious Moments is one of the most beloved brands for celebrating life’s special occasions. Under the leadership of John Plys, Chief Executive Officer of Precious Moments Family of Companies, the vertical brand has dramatically expanded into exciting new product categories, expanded distribution channels, generating renewed awareness and love from a younger female consumer base, broadening the reach of its core Precious Moments consumers, and continue to open new opportunities for the brand and its fans. In the past 18 months, Precious Moments Company, Inc. has opened 24,000 doors to bring new and exciting formats to the young and young-at-heart Precious Moments consumer.
Originating from Mr. Butcher’s charming children’s illustrations, Precious Moments gained global popularity through its porcelain figurines characterized by their signature teardrop-shaped eyes and inspirational messages. These figurines have become timeless collectibles, with Butcher’s distinctive aesthetic conveying a universal message of loving, caring, and sharing. Its enduring appeal evokes a sense of nostalgia and emotional connection across generations.
The M Zone, which has represented Precious Moments since January 2024 as its licensing agent in North America, is excited to announce new market-leading licensing partners for the beloved brand, driving growth and expansion into new markets. New partners include Jay Franco, known for its affordable home décor, who will introduce products that bring the brand’s warmth and charm into homes. LA Rocks, a leader in creative fashion jewelry, will design collections that incorporate the brand’s imagery into stylish, wearable pieces. The Forecast Agency and Ripple Junction, specializing in junior and women’s apparel, will tap into the brand’s nostalgia to create clothing that blends timeless illustrations with a modern fashion flair. Sweet Peas, known for its effortless lifestyle apparel for littles, will offer a range of cozy and comforting clothing. Nature’s Mark will develop a line of seasonal items including candles and bath products. Wildflower Cases will produce a collection of specialty trend- driven phone cases.
The new products, which will launch later this year and into early 2025 will continue to showcase the beloved original Precious Moments imagery. Thousands of art images are available capturing the sweet, wholesome aesthetic that has resonated with fans for decades.
“We’re excited to have partnered with top tier companies to deliver a highly sought-after product range to fans across the U.S.,” comments Jeff Fradin, Co-President at The M Zone Agency. “Through these strategic partnerships, the new products will offer fans more ways to celebrate and connect with the Precious Moments brand they love.
John Plys added, “Sam Butcher’s artwork has found a place in millions of homes worldwide. Today’s young consumers are rediscovering this heritage brand, driven by nostalgia and a deep emotional connection. With its strong brand recognition and a loyal customer base, Precious Moments is perfectly positioned for continued growth and success in the years ahead.”
The new partners will join Precious Moment’s current roster which includes Aurora for plush items, Hamilton Bradford for continuity programs, Bentex for toddler and girls’ apparel, Personalization Mall for personalized gifts, Rose Textiles for baby clothing and accessories, Everyday Kids for infant and toddler bedding, and Craftibly for diamond painting. Additional partners include Direct Checks and Harland Clarke for checks, Galway Decor for outdoor décor, and Thomas Nelson for Bibles.
Precious Moments boasts a robust retail presence across distribution channels, with licensed merchandise available at all levels of distribution, and currently available in over 24,000 stores. Precious Moments reaches millions of consumers annually through email campaigns and attracts more than 1 million visitors to its website each year. Twelve printed catalogs are mailed annually to over 1.2 million consumers, including one catalog dedicated specifically to licensed merchandise.
About Precious Moments
With over 40 years of rich history, Precious Moments has grown to become the world’s most recognized inspirational brand. Precious Moments items are available worldwide in gift, specialty, mass market, chain drug and department stores, as well as Christian bookstores and via online retailers. For more information, visit www.PreciousMoments.com.
About The M Zone
Founded in 2014, The M Zone, Co-Presidents Melissa Segal and Jeff Fradin bring a wealth of experience in the consumer products industry. Together, they spent over 20 years in executive roles at Disney Consumer Products, with Melissa serving as VP of Global Toys and Jeff as VP of Global Hardlines. The M Zone is dedicated to helping brands and intellectual property owners unlock new revenue streams through licensing, brand extensions, marketing partnerships, and innovative distribution strategies. The company’s unique and entrepreneurial business approach is tailored to each client’s specific goals, whether they are major corporations or emerging brands with lean internal infrastructures. The common thread among all their clients is that they represent wholesome, evergreen brands with enduring value.