Jackson family to create new merchandise

The estate of Michael Jackson has requested the rights to make an exclusive official merchandise range related to the late singer.

Jackson's family is said to have made the application to a California judge to combat the swathe of unlicensed products being sold following his death in June, Brand Republic reports.

Start Licensing founder Ian Downes said: "There has to be an appropriate long-term strategy. Look at Elvis, his estate built up a strong legacy and sold the intellectual rights last year.

"They were able to do that because they were able to demonstrate it was a sustainable piece of business. I suspect Jackson's estate will have the same aim."

The deal is said to involve Bravado International Group Merchandising Services and AEG Live, with products being considered including stuffed toys that play Jackson songs, as well as clothing and calenders.