Corrie to extend merchandising range

ITV is to launch a new range of Coronation Street-related products to tie in with the show's 50th anniversary next year.

Rumoured brand extensions include Corrie-themed restaurants, tea sets and Underworld lingerie.

Re-opening the set at Granada Studios in Manchester for behind-the-scenes tours could also be on the cards, and may tie in with ITV's 'agreed' plans to move to Salford's mediacity:uk. The move may involve rebuilding a replica of one of Britain's most well-known streets.

Commercial brand director Gustavo Antonioni told MediaGuardian: "This is a huge change for ITV, but it is not just about the money. It is about how you grow the brand over the long term. This isn't about going out there and licensing the heck out of things.

"Our business is about creating a TV commercial that is aired a couple of times a week that people can engage with. There are going to be several events throughout the year to celebrate the anniversary."

He added: "These will include a combination of tapping into past talent as well as celebrations for viewers. The UK is our biggest market right now, but we can take [the range of spinoffs] wherever we sell the show."

Earlier this month, ITV reportedly held talks with around 250 potential manufacturers. Brands already linked with the venture include Hovis and Marmite.

The commercial broadcaster has already trademarked 'Newton and Ridley', Weatherfield's fictional ale, and has also designed a logo featuring the iconic flying ducks which adorned Hilda Ogden's (Jean Alexander) wall.

Next month, Granada Ventures is to release Coronation Street: Out Of Africa, a 90-minute spinoff DVD which sees Wendi Peters return as loudmouth Cilla Battersby-Brown.

Meanwhile, a similar range of products is being planned for Emmerdale and will reportedly include Woolpack-branded drinks, a gardening club and a clothing range.