Department 56 has entered into a strategic partnership today with Commonwealth Toy & Novelty Inc., a leading toy company and exclusive manufacturer of Rubba Ducks, a new line of unique rubber toy ducks. Created by Mark Boldt, Rubba Ducks is a clever new gift concept combining the classic appeal of rubber ducks with humor and individual personalities. Each duck has a name, a hatch date and life story on its trading card tag. Every Rubba Duck is decorated to communicate its unique personality. DuckT has the same texture as a golf ball with a master's beret, and Holly is dressed in a Santa costume waiting under the mistletoe.

The Rubba Ducks line has made a strong initial impression with retailers and consumers alike. Collectors are clamoring for them, with the first wave selling out almost immediately after hitting store shelves in April. "Rubba Ducks is a fun product that will get everyone's attention," says Andy Melville vice president of sales for Department 56.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2001, Department 56 is a leading designer, importer and distributor of high-quality collectibles, giftware and holiday merchandise, and is best known for its popular lighted village collections including The Original Snow Village Collection and Dickens' Village Series.
http://www.department56.com
http://www.rubbaducks.com