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LOS ANGELES, April 6 /PRNewswire/ -- What began in 1974 in Japan with a coin purse has blossomed into a Hello Kitty phenomenon. Now Hello Kitty, the creation of parent company, Sanrio, Co. Ltd, is kicking off her 35th anniversary with a full slate of activities, festivities and even more product launches. That's good news for her fans that span the ages of children to trend-setting adults who grew up with her stationery, accessories, and toys, now available everywhere from SANRIO stores and specialty boutiques to department stores and mass retailers. The worldwide theme for this 35th Anniversary is "Hello Kitty Colors" which conveys the essence of Hello Kitty that has kept her relevant and appealing to devotees for so long: red for friendship, pink for cute, yellow for heartful, green for wish and lavender for sweet. The message of each color will be reflected on her trademark bow.

"Hello Kitty colors the world and captures the hearts and imaginations of so many people," said Janet Hsu, President of Sanrio Global Consumer Products. "The theme of Hello Kitty's Anniversary is inspired by her legacy and the loving qualities that have resonated with fans from around the world for the past 35 years."

The celebration is indeed a global endeavor, reflecting the brand's universal appeal. Stores around the world, from France to China, will carry her 35th anniversary-themed merchandise beginning in September - and continue with celebrations in select stores throughout the end of the year. Ms. Hsu said hundreds of products affiliated with the milestone will roll out this year, spanning a cross-section of categories from apparel to jewelry to limited edition collectibles. Hello Kitty enthusiasts worldwide can visit the official website, hosted by Sanrio Japan, for the global Hello Kitty 35th anniversary celebration at www.kitty35.com. A U.S. website for the 35th anniversary will be introduced in June 2009 and will provide up-to-date information on product launches, activities and events.

By aligning herself in celebrity, fashion and technology cultures, Hello Kitty enjoys ageless appeal. Her sweet, youthful visage graces everything from stickers and scented erasers to digital cameras to electric guitars and thousands of other lifestyle products. With famous partners such as Kimora Lee Simmons for a line of luxe jewelry, and a celebrity following from notables including Heidi Klum, Drew Barrymore, Katy Perry, Perez Hilton, Lourdes Leon, Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus, among others, Hello Kitty has cemented her reputation as an arbiter of all things cool, unique and stylish.

Closer to the exact anniversary date of November 1, SANRIO Inc. will host a bi-coastal gallery exhibition, featuring Hello Kitty products of the past, present and future, along with artist interpretations of the icon. Plans are also in the works to tie in the celebrations with national and local charities to support SANRIO's philosophy of "Small Gift, Big Smile."