Angry Birds merch flies into Russia and CIS as Rovio signs distribution deal

Finnish purveyor of Angry Birds Rovio has announced the next step in its bid for world wide merchandising dominance, revealing details of its collaboration with Russia and CIS-based online retail outfit Internet Retail Solution (IRSOL).

IRSOL maintain control over a variety of online retail fronts, of which Bambiniya.ru, a child-focused online store, is already stocking Angry Birds' merchandise, with offline retail apparently on the way.

New ground

"Angry Birds is extremely popular both globally and in Russia as it brings positive emotions and fun to the entire family," said IRSOL's CEO Alexander Semenov.

"Our philosophy to endeavor to make our customers happy with every small detail - is similar to that of Rovio, so we are especially excited to represent Angry Birds."

He's not the only person pleased by the deal, as Claes Kalborg, Rovio's senior VP of licensing highlighted the significance of entering the Russian market.

"We have been looking for a partner in Russia for several months," he said.

"This is a very important market for us as it already has the largest internet audience in Europe.

"IRSOL is a dynamic company with a strong team, focused on online retail and distribution in various product categories, experienced in dealing with licensed merchandise, and has both B2B and B2C expertise."

[source: Rovio]