Aardman
Harnessing IPs to boost footfall
Shaun and Bitzer set the scene in the restaurant
Aardman , an employee-owned company , based in Bristol and co-founded in 1976 by Peter Lord and David Sproxton , is an independent and multi-Academy Award ® and BAFTA ® award winning studio . It produces feature films , series , advertising , games and interactive entertainment . The studio ’ s work – which includes the creation of much-loved characters including Wallace & Gromit , Shaun the Sheep , Timmy Time and Morph – is often imitated , and yet the company continues to lead the field producing a rare brand of visually stunning content for cinema , broadcasters , digital platforms and live experiences around the world .
Aardman ’ s Attractions & Live Experiences team develops immersive experiences for the whole family . Working with partners around the world , the studio uses its wealth of creative talent to bring unique stories and interactive experiences to life . Combining entertainment and education across its attractions and events is integral , as well as supporting the studio ’ s brand values and increasing awareness globally , whilst upholding Aardman ’ s renowned production quality .
In October 2019 the Shaun Village opened at Tokyo ’ s new shopping mall , Grandberry Park Minami Machida , in partnership with Tokyu Recreation , part of the Tokyu Corporation group . The dining and retail experience features a replica façade of the Shaun the Sheep Farmhouse , themed dining rooms and meals , a retail and exhibition space featuring production artwork & character sculptures , special event & private hire room and workshops . The bespoke product range created is also sold through nationwide ‘ pop-up ’ retail stores in prime locations such as Shibuya Station and in the 109 cinemas operated throughout Japan by Tokyu Rec .
Shaun Village has successfully increased visitor numbers and dwell time at the Mall , appealing to tweens , young professionals and character fans as well as the core family audience .
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