BURBANK, Calif., September 29, 2004 -- Disney Consumer Products today announced the launch of the new Disney Smoothie Maker and Disney Popcorn Popper, both designed to bring Disney magic into one of the most important gathering places in the home -- the kitchen. The new line of appliances is an expansion of the company's innovative new line of consumer electronics products designed for kids and families that combine Disney's entertainment content with leading technology and design. Both products will be available in October at major retail outlets nationwide, just in time for the holiday season, and are the first in an ongoing line of appliances that will continue to be introduced to consumers.
A collaborative design effort between Disney and Back to Basics(TM) Products, Inc., the Disney Smoothie Maker and Disney Popcorn Popper are designed for durability and top performance and have a look and feel that fits any modern or traditional kitchen. The new appliances have special safety features and offer simple, step-by-step instructions.
"Warm popcorn and fresh smoothies are extremely popular treats, and preparing snacks together can be a fabulous experience for the whole family," said Chris Heatherly, director of Electronics/ Appliances for Disney Consumer Products. "We've designed the products to capture the essence of what Disney is all about -- fun, magic and family."
The Disney Smoothie Maker and Disney Popcorn Popper provide parents with a great opportunity to introduce kids to the concept of reading a recipe, calculating basic measurements and following basic kitchen safety rules. The popcorn popper makes five quarts of fresh, delicious popcorn, which is large enough for an entire family to share. A pre-portioned lid measures corn kernels for calculating the desired serving amounts. The clear design lets everyone watch the popcorn popping.
Manufactured and distributed by Back to Basics, the Disney Smoothie Maker is red and has a capacity of 40 ounces. It features a quick-mixing stir stick, mess-free dispensing valve, safety locks and is whimsically designed, with Disney-style non-slip rubber "feet" at the base. The Disney Popcorn Popper has a capacity of five quarts, features a non-stick coated popping surface, a cover that flips to become a serving bowl, a motorized stirring rod, heat-resistant handles and base, and Mickey's white non-slip rubber "feet." Both items are available at a suggested retail price of $39.99 each.
"The new Disney Appliances are technologically savvy with special safety features and lots of Disney magic," said Randy Hales, president of Back to Basics. "Whether for single or family use, these appliances allow users to enjoy time in one of the favorite rooms of the house -- the kitchen."
For more information and images of the new Disney Smoothie Maker and Disney Popcorn Popper and the new line of Disney Electronics products, please visit http://www.disneyconsumerproducts.com.
Disney Consumer Products
Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is the division of The Walt Disney Company that extends the Disney brand to merchandise ranging from apparel, toys, home decor and books to interactive games, food and beverages, electronics and fine art. This is accomplished through the work of the division's various lines of business: Disney Toys, Disney Softlines, Disney Hardlines, Disney Publishing, Buena Vista Games and Baby Einstein. The Disney Store, which debuted in 1987, also falls under DCP, carrying mostly exclusive, non-licensed merchandise.
Back to Basics Products, Inc.
What began in 1971 with a few home canning and food storage products has grown into a dynamic and competitive housewares company. Still true to the company's heritage, today Back to Basics Products, Inc. designs, develops, markets and distributes kitchen countertop appliances that make food preparation easy and enjoyable, focusing on the principle of "back to things that work." The privately held Inc. 500 company (2003) combines innovation and program marketing to deliver on the company's promise of Family, Food and Fun. For more information, visit http://www.disneyconsumerproducts.com. Back to Basics is a trademark of Back to Basics Products, Inc.
