# Global Disney and character merchandise retail developments

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-disney-and-character-merchandise-retail-developments
> Updated: 2026-10-26T21:25:37.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

Retailers are expanding the availability of character-themed merchandise through various collaborations and new physical outlets. In Japan, brands such as Avail, GU, and Shimamura Park have announced product releases featuring franchises including ‘Chou Kaguya-hime!’, Disney, Sanrio, and ‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’. Banpresto also introduced new ‘Winnie the Pooh’ mascots at amusement facilities.

Disney is further expanding its retail footprint by opening its first outlet location at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks in the United Kingdom. Additionally, the company is importing select merchandise from its Japanese and European stores to the United States, including Winnie the Pooh collections inspired by E. H. Shepard’s illustrations and winter apparel from Disney Store Europe.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-26: Disney expands retail presence with UK outlet and US merchandise imports

Disney is launching its first UK outlet at Cheshire Oaks this autumn and bringing exclusive Japanese Winnie the Pooh merchandise to US markets.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/disney-expands-retail-presence-with-uk-outlet-and-us-merchandise-imports

### 2026-10-22: Japanese retailers announce various anime and character collaborations

Japanese retailers Avail, GU, and Shimamura Park are launching new merchandise collaborations featuring Disney, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Pompompurin, and Winnie the Pooh.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/japanese-retailers-announce-various-anime-and-character-collaborations

---
Cite as: Global Disney and character merchandise retail developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-disney-and-character-merchandise-retail-developments