- The deal marks Bendon’s second acquisition since Brightstar’s investment, following its purchase of School Zone Publishing in July
- Acquired portfolio consists almost entirely of proprietary brands complementing Bendon’s existing licensed properties
- Hinkler’s Australian and international operations are excluded from the deal and will continue under existing ownership
Bendon LLC, a designer and distributor of children’s coloring, activity and educational products backed by Brightstar Capital Partners, has acquired Hinkler’s North American business, for undisclosed terms. Hinkler’s Australian and international operations are not part of the transaction and will continue to operate independently under existing ownership.
The acquired business is built around established franchises including Kaleidoscope in coloring and activity, Craft Maker in arts and crafts, and Piccadilly in stationery. The portfolio is highly complementary to Bendon’s existing owned brands and licensed properties from partners including Disney, Nickelodeon, Marvel and Universal.
Bendon plans to invest behind the acquired brands, supporting their growth through its retail relationships, product development infrastructure and distribution network, and introducing them into channels including impulse, seasonal and party retail.
The deal is Bendon’s second acquisition since Brightstar’s investment in the company, following its purchase of School Zone Publishing Company in July. Brightstar invested in Bendon through its lower middle-market strategy. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Ashland, Ohio, Bendon distributes its products across a broad range of retail channels in North America.
Brightstar Capital Partners is a middle-market private equity firm with $5 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2026, focused on control-oriented investments.
Editor’s note: This news brief was produced with the assistance of artificial intelligence.