IMPS, the license holder for The Smurfs, renames itself Peyo Company and reveals an expanded IP strategy in Annecy

IMPS, the company behind The Smurfs, has officially rebranded itself as Peyo Company. This change was announced at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, a prominent event for animation enthusiasts and professionals. The rebranding is part of a broader strategy to honor Peyo, the Belgian cartoonist who created The Smurfs, and to streamline the company’s identity with its most famous creation.

New Focus on Expanding Intellectual Properties

With the new name, Peyo Company is not just changing its branding but also expanding its focus on intellectual properties (IPs). The company aims to develop new characters and stories while continuing to promote The Smurfs. This expansion includes potential new animated series, movies, and even video games. By broadening its range of IPs, Peyo Company hopes to capture the interest of both existing fans and new audiences.

Honoring Peyo’s Legacy

Peyo Company is committed to preserving and promoting the legacy of Pierre Culliford, known as Peyo, who created The Smurfs in 1958. The decision to rename IMPS to Peyo Company reflects this commitment. The company believes that this rebranding will help in keeping Peyo’s creative spirit alive and relevant for future generations. It is also seen as a way to give credit to the creator whose work has entertained millions worldwide.

Strategic Goals and Future Plans

The company has outlined several strategic goals as part of its new direction. These include enhancing the global reach of The Smurfs through various media platforms and creating new content that resonates with contemporary audiences. Additionally, Peyo Company plans to explore partnerships and collaborations with other entertainment entities to broaden its creative horizons.

Continued Commitment to Quality

Despite these changes, Peyo Company assures fans that the quality and charm that made The Smurfs a beloved franchise will remain intact. The company is dedicated to maintaining high standards in all its projects, ensuring that any new content upholds the values and creativity that Peyo embodied.