Created by Elisabetta Dami, the "Geronimo Stilton" book series has sold more than 190 million copies in over 50 languages and has become a worldwide cultural phenomenon, supported by a successful animated TV adaptation. The acquisition was completed through the purchase of shares in International Characters S.r.l., owned by Dami, and PM S.r.l., owned by Pietro Marietti.
“The ‘Geronimo Stilton’ books have helped shape the imagination of millions of children in Italy and around the world,” said Iginio Straffi, founder of Rainbow. “Welcoming this character into our family is a great honour and a great responsibility: we believe in the strength of his values and in his ability to continue to inspire young readers. Our commitment will be to support him on a growth path that can expand into new media and new forms of expression, while remaining faithful to the spirit that has made him unique.”
Beyond the original books, the franchise has expanded into a rich narrative universe that includes the popular “Tea Sisters” series, led by Geronimo’s sister Tea Stilton, further extending the brand’s reach in publishing and beyond.
Rainbow plans to further develop the property across publishing, digital, and entertainment platforms, while preserving the core values of curiosity, learning, and exploration that define the brand.
“I am extremely happy that my beloved Geronimo is joining the prestigious Rainbow family! I am sure he will continue to inspire his readers to discover the world and remind them of the importance of curiosity, friendship, kindness and imagination,” said Elisabetta Dami, adding, “Because life, with its endless adventures, is the most exciting journey we can take together! Geronimo will always be a faithful, loyal, and cheerful companion to young readers. Long live friendship, long live kindness, long live happiness!"
Pietro Marietti commented: “Entering the Rainbow universe now means taking another leap towards new adventures and new horizons, which I will be thrilled to collaborate on.”
Rainbow already represents "Geronimo Stilton" worldwide for licensing and publishing, and the full IP acquisition is expected to accelerate the brand’s expansion across multiple platforms. From 2026, the company will roll out new editorial, digital, and entertainment initiatives aimed at engaging new generations and strengthening the franchise’s global presence.
