NPD will be primary provider of sales tracking data for wide range of general merchandise categories Bentonville, AR, February 3, 2011 — The NPD Group, Inc., a global leader in consumer and retail market research for a wide range of industries, has reached an agreement with Walmart to receive and analyze its point-of-sale information. NPD [...] -More-
As many of you know, I spent most of my professional life as a business reporter and editor, covering such industries as consumer electronics, retail and, oh yes, licensing. One of the things that is drummed into any reporter (or should be) is the need for clarity in all phases of the editorial process — [...] -More-
January 31, 2012, NEW YORK – The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association’s (LIMA) starts the new year strong with a full slate of business-building webinars. Designed to guide members in making the most of their brands, LIMA’s bi-monthly programs take place on Wednesdays from 12:00-1:30PM EST. The series kicks off on February 8. “The value [...] -More-
Roney Brings Over 25 Years of Licensing Experience as a Licensor and Licensee -More-
Entries are now being accepted for the Annual LIMA International Licensing Excellence Awards. These prestigious awards are designed to honor properties, products, companies, and promotions from around the world that have demonstrated superior performance during the calendar year 2011. To review awards criteria and categories, please view the online brochure. The deadline for receipt of [...] -More-
- Licensed Toys Experience 2 Percent Increase in Dollar Sales - PORT WASHINGTON, NY, January 31, 2012 – According to leading market research company, The NPD Group, U.S. retail sales of toys generated $21.18 billion in 2011 compared to $21.68 billion in 2010, a decline of 2 percent. When looking at quarterly sales for the [...] -More-
Atlantic recording artist Cody Simpson is staking a claim as one of the year’s most iconic new stars, evidenced by a series of newly announced strategic licensing agreements expanding the Cody Simpson brand through a wide array of products and merchandise. Cody Simpson has signed on with such innovative companies as: Accessory Innovations, LLC (bags, [...] -More-
NEW YORK (January 26, 2012) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced the appointment of new sub-agents for Jim Benton’s It’s Happy Bunny™ humorous character brand in Brazil and Benelux. • Sao Paulo-based Angelotti Licensing (www.luizangelotti.com) has been appointed to manage the licensing program for It’s Happy Bunny in Brazil. • BN Licensing (www.bnlicensing.com) [...] -More-
Since its initial release in 1962, Mars Attacks has made an indelible impression on pop culture, inspiring legions of fans around the world. Now, Topps is proud to announce Mars Attacks’ triumphant return to its trading card roots. Coinciding this summer with the landmark half-century milestone the company is pulling out all the stops for [...] -More-
A new deal with new online greetings card retailer www.cardtown.com gives Fizzy Moon fans a more ‘personalised’ experience! Allison Myers Licensing Manager at Paper Island Ltd comments: “We are very excited to be working with www.cardtown.com. The site is very easy to use and the purchase process is seamless. The finished personalized cards are of [...] -More-
LOS ANGELES – Grateful Dead Productions and Rhino Entertainment today announced that they have partnered with Burton, the world’s leading snowboard manufacturer, on an exclusive line of snowboards. The newly designed Burton Grateful Dead snowboards made their trade debut today at the annual SIA Snow Show in Denver, Colorado “Burton is arguably the best in [...] -More-
Youth Apparel Line from Garb Unveiled at the 59th PGA Merchandise Show; Product Debuts in Spring 2012 The PGA of America and Turner Broadcasting’s Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE), the licensing and merchandising arm for the children’s television network, have announced the launch of the PGA Authentic Jr. line of licensed products, which will debut at [...] -More-
MIAMI, January 23 – Vodka Capital and Exim Licensing Group, Inc. are very JELLY proud to announce their partnership in the Jelly Jamm licensing program for the Latin America region. The comedic adventures 3D animated series that celebrates creativity, music, fun and friendship, targeting kids 4-7 years old, is part of the Vodka Capital portfolio, [...] -More-
MIAMI, January 13 – Exim Licensing Group, Inc. announced that it has become the licensing agent of the iconic character Condorito for all Latin America with the exception of Chile and Peru. The “Half Man, Half Bird” pop character, legitimate representative of the Latin American people, with his thousands of facets, was created by the [...] -More-
NEW YORK, NY – The Trump Organization and Peerless Clothing have partnered to develop a men’s tailored clothing collection under the Donald J. Trump Signature Collection brand, which is now available at Macy’s stores nationwide. The offering is an addition to the successful Donald J. Trump Signature Collection, which includes dress shirts, ties, cufflinks, eyewear, [...] -More-
High-quality, consumer-friendly line available beginning January 2012 at leading drugstore chains and retailers nationwide -More-
The next session in the popular LIMA Webinar Series will feature “Using Shows, Theme Parks and Museums to Build An Entertainment Brand” on Wednesday, February 8 from 12:00-1:30pm. Stage shows, theme parks, ice shows, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, children’s museums…all provide enriching experiences with a brand and opportunities to test and sell new content and [...] -More-
Sports is one of the highest-profile property types in the licensing business, and the easiest to relate to one of the primary drivers of licensing in general: EMOTION. All licensing is built on emotion, be it trust in a brand, the sense of humor associated with a character appreciation of a piece of art or [...] -More-
Join LIMA at Celsius at Bryant Park for our annual Toy Fair Networking Reception on Monday, February 13. Escape to a winter wonderland in the heart of Manhattan while enjoying cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and lively conversation! Monday, February 13 6:00-8:00pm Celsius at Bryant Park 2nd Floor Sixth Avenue & 42nd Street New York, NY The [...] -More-
Licensing University™ – LIMA’s outstanding seminar program that takes place at the Licensing International Expo – will include more than 35 events and seminars when the licensing industry gathers in Las Vegas in June. Licensing University™ covers a wide variety of topics, including retail and distribution strategies, consumer trends; and expanding licensing business internationally. The [...] -More-
Ames Assumes Responsibility for North American Operations and Strategic Growth Initiatives -More-
Research arms LIMA UK members with vital information on their demographic market -More-
CopCorp Appoints Angelotti Licensing in Brazil, BN Licensing in Benelux, Caldarelli Licensing in Italy; Renews Barcode Kitties Pacts for MJA in France,P&L Global Network in Mexico, and Sinerji in Turkey NEW YORK (January 12, 2012) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced the appointment of three new sub-agents as well as renewed pacting with [...] -More-
In this week’s LIMA eNewsletter: Licensing Industry Hall of Fame – Deadline This Friday! New Slate of LIMA Regional Representatives Announced Featured LIMA Member Benefit: Access to the TIA & LIMA Lounge at Toy Fair Jobs Board Click here to read. -More-
LIMA notes with sadness the passing of licensing and toy industry veteran Stan Clutton of Mattel and Fisher-Price, who passed away just before Christmas after a short illness. Stan, a former LIMA Board member and active participant on the Charity Committee, among others, was one of the most well respected people in the business, and [...] -More-
Planeta Junior Spain has signed a deal with Arluy, the brand exclusively dedicated to healthy and fun products aimed at children and teenagers, for Maya the Bee 3D brand in Spain and Portugal. Licensed products are breakfast cookies, tea time cookies, salty snacks, chocolate snack and chocolate tablets. Planeta Junior owns the rights of this [...] -More-
LOS ANGELES – Grateful Dead Productions and Rhino Entertainment have partnered with Donni Charm to create unique scarves using iconic Grateful Dead artwork. The six different Donni Charm scarves in the Grateful Dead line feature designs incorporating classic Dead imagery including the legendary Steal Your Face, Skull and Roses, Dancing Bears and Skeletons. The scarves [...] -More-
LIMA welcomes six additions to our list of Regional Representatives. New to the East Coast team are Amber Janis (M Style Marketing) and Diania Merriam (Muhammad Ali Enterprises). They will join current representatives Janee Howard (LF USA), Lewis Stark (Eisner Amper LLP) and Jessica Wichard (The Joester Loria Group). On the West Coast, returning rep [...] -More-
CopCorp Renews Agreements with DRi Licensing, CPLG Iberia, and Faresak New York, January 3, 2012 – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today confirmed the extension of sub-agency agreements with trusted agents in the United Kingdom, Iberia, and Brazil to continue management of licensing programs for the Pink Cookie™ international fashion brand in their respective territories. [...] -More-
Planeta Junior Spain has signed a deal with Madness, a company which specializes in license purchasing and distribution, for the Sesame Street brand. The company will develop apparel and accessories to adults, teenagers and infants: casual wear (T-Shirts, sweaters, jogging suits, tracksuit), night wear (pajamas, night shirts; night robes, dressing gowns), underwear (tops, slips, knickers/Briefs, [...] -More-
MALIBU, Calif.–Dec. 21, 2011– JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (Nasdaq: JAKK) announced today that it entered into a manufacturing agreement with Bandai Co., Ltd. for the toy line based on the Monsuno” boys action adventure property. The Monsuno original animated television series is in production by Pacific Animation Partners LLC, a joint venture between JAKKS Pacific and [...] -More-
Announces Update to Popular Elmo Loves ABCs App -More-
Fans Vote to Determine Name of Team Hot Wheels™ Monster Truck and Hot Wheels® Celebrates Grave Digger® 30th Anniversary with New Products -More-
Amid the chaos and uncertainty that defined retail in 2011, a few happenings went largely unheralded. Below, I take a look back at two that promise to create a big bang in branding and retail in 2012, and throw in a few predictions to set the stage for next year-and-beyond strategy. Global Power Launches State-of-the-art [...] -More-
Electrolux Global Brand Licensing and Elec Tech International has signed a licensing contract for the brand AEG in the LED Light bulbs category for consumers. The licensing contract increases the presence of the AEG brand in the Green Energy sector. Since AEG is included in the Electrolux brand portfolio, it also generates brand awareness for [...] -More-
As part of the Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s drive for its “Overseas Development Promotional Strategy for Content,” the Kanto Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry – in conjunction with Japanese licensing agents – will jointly host the Japan Pavilion at the LIMA sponsored Hong Kong International Licensing Show from January 9-11, 2012. [...] -More-
The New Year of LIMA webinars will kick off on Wednesday, January 11 with “10 Myths About Youth Marketing That Are Holding Back Your Brand,” presented by Bill Carter, Partner in Fuse, one of the leading teen and young adult youth culture marketing services firms. Carter will offer evidence and analysis about how – from [...] -More-
In a presentation in Bentonville last month, Walmart’s EVP and chief merchandising officer Duncan MacNaughton reiterated Walmart’s plan to apply a “broad application of price investments” that will amount to a $2 billion everyday low price insurance policy. Tough markets call for tough measures and everything is a race to the bottom, right? Not so [...] -More-
The art licensing business is in the midst of a significant transformation, as some merchandise categories that formerly were mainstays of the business wane, while some newer sectors show significant growth potential. According to LIMA’s Annual Licensing Business Survey, retail sales of art licensed products in North America reached $3.75 billion in 2010. While lower [...] -More-
BENICIA, CA—Grateful Dead Productions and Rhino Entertainment have partnered with Dunlop Manufacturing, Inc., the #1 supplier of guitar accessories in the world, to create pick tins featuring iconic Grateful Dead artwork. Each tin includes six authentic, medium gauge Tortex® guitar picks with classic Grateful Dead imagery, including Steal Your Face, Skull and Roses, the Dancing [...] -More-
Milan, November 23 — 2011 Planeta Junior Italia has signed with TRIDIMENSIONAL for the brand Heidi. The company will develop the famous brand on coloring books, magic album, games book, and many other products. For over thirty years, Heidi is beloved by the public of the youngest, with her contagious joy, love for life and [...] -More-
Milan, November 21st — 2011 Planeta Junior Italia has signed with SWEET for products with the brand Maya the Bee Classic version and new 3D version. The Company based in Gorizia, the second largest producer of chocolate eggs with surprise, it will carry a new line of “Sweet Eggs” dedicated to the most famous Bee [...] -More-
NEW YORK (November 22, 2011) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced that renewal agreements had been reached with several key licensees for Jim Benton’s It’s Happy Bunny™, the cute little bunny with the BIG attitude. The following manufacturers – having already enjoyed success with the popular It’s Happy Bunny humorous character brand – [...] -More-
NEW YORK (November 22, 2011) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced a licensing deal granting digital publisher MoveableCode Inc. the right to utilize The Monster Factory’s (not so) Scary Monsters™ characters for a series of Step- By-Story™ ePlay apps to be published under MoveableCode’s Playful Owl imprint. “The (not so) Scary Monsters are [...] -More-
Highlighting last week’s Licensing Market in Munich was the LIMA Germany Awards, acknowledging the industry’s best for outstanding achievements in licensing and merchandising in Germany. The winners for 2011 are: Overall best License of the Year: Cars 2, Disney Licensor of the Year: Super RTL Licensee of the Year: Panini Verlag Promotion of the Year: [...] -More-
Leeds, October 2011 — Lisle International Licensing is delighted to announce an agreement with the award winning licensed consumer electronic company, Inspiration Works, that will see a new collection of ZhuZhu Pets® electronic toys and gifts for children in 2012. Inspiration Works, winner of the licensing awards best licensed written, listening or learning for the [...] -More-
November 15, 2011 SAN FRANCISCO and NEW YORK — BSR and the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) have newly released “Good Practices for Complying with Licensors’ Social and Environmental Requirements: A Practical Guide for Licensees”. The timely new guide is designed to help the licensing industry promote positive social and environmental practices among licensors, [...] -More-
Debra Restler has been named Associate Vice President, Business Development & Marketing at Beanstalk. She is responsible for forging new client relationships for the agency across multiple industries, including corporate brands, celebrities and entertainment properties. In addition, she oversees all aspects of the agency’s corporate communications, continuing to build awareness of Beanstalk as an innovator [...] -More-
Are you interested in getting more involved in LIMA? Put your passion and enthusiasm for the licensing industry to work by serving as a LIMA Regional Representative. LIMA is seeking Regional Representatives for the East Coast and the West Coast in the United States. This is a one-year term from January 1 – December 31, [...] -More-
Company To Expand Its Portfolio Into Consumer Electronic Industry NEW YORK, Oct. 27, 2011–Iconix Brand Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: ICON) (“Iconix” the “Company”) announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire The Sharper Image® brand and intellectual property assets from Sharper Image Acquisition, LLC for approximately $65.6 million in cash. This acquisition will [...] -More-
Los Angeles, CA, October 27, 2011 – Wendy Bellissimo Media, Inc. and 5 Star Apparel Group announced today a licensing partnership that will include the marketing, production, and distribution of the Wendy Bellissimo Baby & Kids apparel line. Through the agreement, 5 Star will head the creation, production, and distribution of the favored Bellissimo brand [...] -More-
Leading licensing agency Brandgenuity brokers deal between iconic film & top athletic boutique New York, October 27, 2011 – New York-based licensing agency, Brandgenuity, announced today that MGM Studios has partnered with streetwear industry leader Undefeated to develop a line of tee shirts, snapback hats, knit hats, crewneck sweatshirts, and hoodies for the film Rocky [...] -More-
LIMA is accepting submissions for speakers and presentations for the Licensing University™ conference program to be held in conjunction with the Licensing International Expo 2012. With approximately 30 sessions, Licensing University™ will cover a broad range of topics affecting the industry in a number of categories. Through hands-on workshops, breakfast roundtables, panels and small discussion [...] -More-
Character Options signs new UK toy deal Leeds, United Kingdom, October 17, 2011 — Lisle International has unveiled details of an exciting new license agreement for the cult hit kid’s property, Almost Naked Animals™ that will see Character Options develop micro figures and construction sets under its successful Character Building™ banner. News of the agreement [...] -More-
Ben 10 Fans Enlisted to Help Save the Universe and Win Ultimate Trip in Brand’s First Cross-Category Promotion! Cartoon Network’s Ben 10 needs your help! Through a first-of-its-kind program for the brand announced today, Cartoon Network Enterprises, the licensing and merchandising arm of the network, has partnered with Bandai America Incorporated and D3Publisher to create [...] -More-
LONDON – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal announced three more licensees for the adorable Barcode Kitties™ girls art brand featuring lovely “kawaii kittens” with bar code whiskers. •Alcara (www.alcara.fr), a leading manufacturer of products for bakeries and confectioners, has been granted the rights to manufacture and market Barcode Kitties Epiphany Charms, Paper Crowns, Paper Bags [...] -More-
New York’s CopCorp Licensing Selects UK’s Caroline Mickler Ltd. and Germany’s Team! Licensing to Launch Zoodorable Program in Europe LONDON – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal announced the appointments of the first two overseas agents for the Zoodorable™ licensing program which is already off to such a strong and successful start in the USA. •Caroline [...] -More-
New Deals in USA, Mexico; Noted Renewals in USA, Canada, Poland LONDON – The licensing program for Jim Benton’s It’s Happy Bunny™, the cute little bunny with the BIG attitude, is still going strong more than a decade after it first launched. CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced new deals in Mexico and the [...] -More-
The corporate licensing sector has long been one of the key components of the global licensing business, nowhere more so than in the U.S. According to the most recent edition of LIMA’s Annual Licensing Survey, corporate brand licensing accounted for $19.7 billion in retail sales in the U.S. in 2010 – 18.9% of the total [...] -More-
The Galactic Gumshoes Arrive Spring 2012 NEW YORK, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI), in partnership with Columbia Pictures, today announced an all-new Men In Black™ video game, launching as a standalone title to coincide with the global theatrical release of Men In Black III in Spring 2012. True to the [...] -More-
Matrix Video Group and Brand Licensing Central Expand Licensing Programs For Top CBS Brands To Russia and Mexico NEW YORK – October 12, 2011 — CBS Consumer Products is continuing to make an aggressive push overseas tapping licensing representatives Matrix Video Group and Brand Licensing Central to develop licensing programs throughout Russia and Mexico. Both [...] -More-
New York, NY – JACK SPADE, the stylish men’s brand known for its classic American styling of apparel, bags and small goods, has teamed up with the world’s most iconic beverage brand, Coca-Cola, to celebrate its 125th birthday. Marking 125 years since the first Coca-Cola was enjoyed on May 8, 1886, and inspired by the [...] -More-
The Girls Are Back and Join Global Powerhouse Ben 10 at The World’s Greatest Toy Store® in Dedicated Shop The girls are back and they’re taking New York City by storm! Bubbles, Blossom and Buttercup – better known as The Powerpuff Girls – are teaming up with boys action powerhouse Ben 10 and taking center [...] -More-
Los Angeles, California, October 7, 2011 – Richmond Management Group, Inc. (RMG) announced today that it has signed children’s apparel and family interiors designer Wendy Bellissimo to its client list. Internationally known as a leader in bringing attainable luxury to families of all backgrounds, Wendy’s bedding, apparel and infant layette collection capture the essence of [...] -More-
Electrolux Global Brand Licensing, which controls the licensing rights to the Electrolux´s brand portfolio, has appointed Capstone Branding to be their partner in the Indian market. This marks the first time that Electrolux Global Brand Licensing has targeted India. The third party agent was selected for this assignment based on their knowledge and understanding of [...] -More-
Bloomingdale’s and bloomingdales.com to Showcase Limited-Edition Merchandise for Men and Boys from Oct. 1 to Jan. 31 NEW YORK, September 28, 2011 – Looking for a few good men to join its ranks, Bloomingdale’s has recruited two of the most iconic military characters of all time — Beetle Bailey and Popeye the Sailor — for [...] -More-
World’s Most Popular Monster Truck Property Adds New Licensees in Multiple Consumer Products Categories and Extends Licensing Relationship with Four Longtime Licensing Partners AURORA, Ill. (September 29, 2011) – Feld Motor Sports® announced today that Monster Jam®, the world’s largest and most popular touring monster truck property, which performs in front of four million spectators [...] -More-
Executives from HSN, Sears Holdings, Iconix Offered Case Studies and Commentary, newmarketbuilders Gave a Look Toward The Future -More-
As a benefit of membership, current LIMA members receive discount on comprehensive book by Greg Battersby and Danny Simon -More-
Milan, September 23 2011 — Planeta Junior Italia has signed with GALLOTTI S.r.l. for products with the brand Maya the Bee Classic version and new 3D version. The company will develop the brand on a collection of colourful umbrellas. At the beginning Gallotti will use the images of Maya Classic and then they will launch [...] -More-
One of the most striking themes running through this month’s LIMA Retail & Branding Conference was the importance of storytelling in building a strong brand. Whether it’s the positioning of Iconix’ Material Girl fast fashion juniors brand at Macy’s around Madonna’s 14-year-old daughter Lola, or the attempted reinvention of Kmart’s apparel and home business as [...] -More-
Sponsored by Endemol Worldwide Brands -More-
Electrolux Global Brand Licensing and Artisan Manufacturing have signed an agreement regarding licensed products under the brand Frigidaire. Artisan will launch a high quality line of kitchen faucets and sinks. The products will be marketed in the United States and Canada. “Frigidaire has been a very strong brand for decades, in the cold product category [...] -More-
TORONTO — September 15th, 2011 — 9 Story Entertainment announced today it has signed license agreements with Freeze, a division of Central Mills Inc., and ABG Accessories for its new hit TV series Almost Naked Animals™. The series, produced by 9 Story Entertainment, launched on Cartoon Network in June of this year and is stripped [...] -More-
Los Angeles – With increasing success in automating European licensing operations, Dependable Solutions, Inc. will exhibit at Brand Licensing Europe, taking place at the Olympia exhibition center in London, from October 18-20. During the show, a team of DSI experts will demonstrate the latest techniques in licensing administration for licensors, agents and licensees: *Dependable Rights [...] -More-
LONDON — September 15th, 2011 — Lisle International Licensing announced today it has signed to represent the UK licensing rights for the new boy cult TV series Almost Naked Animals™ on CITV. The series, produced by 9 Story Entertainment, launched on CITV in April of this year and is stripped daily at 4:30 p.m. and [...] -More-
September 15, 2011 — With several major toy projects in various stages of development and distribution, JAY AT PLAY has appointed Dan Kletzky’s LA based Entertainment Licensing Associates (ELA), to manage all of the licensing activities for its growing portfolio of kid’s brands. First licensing project in the portfolio is HAPPY NAPPERS. Launched almost a [...] -More-
LOS ANGELES – Grateful Dead Productions and Rhino Entertainment have aligned with several new licensing partners to create unique Dead-related products. Donni Charm Grateful Dead partnered with fashion accessory company Donni Charm. The collection will include luxurious scarves that are embellished with good luck charms and will use iconic Grateful Dead art. The line will [...] -More-
East Rutherford, NJ September 14, 2011 – M!KE Licensing (www.mikelicensing.com), one of the nation’s leading licensing firms, announced today that Laura Ashley, the quintessential English lifestyle brand, will be launching a signature collection of Scotties Facial Tissue at Target beginning this month. New packaging has been designed with signature Laura Ashley prints, and the initial [...] -More-
Happy Meal Program Based on Top Boys Brand Currently Available in North American Restaurants Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE), the licensing and merchandising arm of Cartoon Network, announced today an agreement with McDonald’s for a Ben 10 Ultimate Alien Happy Meal program that is currently available at North American restaurants. Based on the top-rated Cartoon Network [...] -More-
LIMA continues its educational programming this fall with a collection of webinar sessions designed to aid licensing professionals in enhancing their skills and further developing their industry knowledge and expertise. The series begins on Wednesday, September 14 with “Anatomy of a Licensing Contract,” presented by Gregory J. Battersby, co-founder of Grimes & Battersby, LLP and [...] -More-
Leeds UK, 6th September 2011 — Lisle International Licensing is delighted to announce their new partnership with Lifestyle Licensing International, for the representation of their lifestyle fashion brand, Pampered Girls. This new partnership will see Lisle International taking on the management of the property in a number of markets including the UK. Pampered Girls is [...] -More-
NEW YORK (August 30, 2011) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced the signing of Berkshire Fashions, Inc. (www.berkshireinc.com) as the newest U.S. licensee for Zoodorable™, the new property from pop artist / illustrator Han L. Lee, creator of the well-known Bobby Jack™ brand. Berkshire Fashions has been granted the rights to produce and [...] -More-
GB eye Ltd is extremely proud to announce our nomination for the Licensing Awards 2011. Our range of Star Wars classic posters and 3D posters has reached the final 6 of the Best Licensed Paper Products or Stationery Range in the 2011 awards, due to be held in London on 13th September. Over 5000 products [...] -More-
MALIBU, Calif., Aug 24, 2011 — Leading U.S. toymaker, JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (Nasdaq:JAKK) today announced the appointment of Jack McGrath as Chief Operating Officer. “Jack has demonstrated leadership throughout his years with the Company, and his high level of experience and business acumen makes him the perfect choice to be our COO,” said Stephen Berman, [...] -More-
Back in 2009, I wrote an article in which I lamented retailers’ then-current obsession with clutter clearing and other “retail rehab” measures. I questioned whether they would have achieved their ideal once the majority of their stores were remodeled, cleaned up, and optimized, or whether their customers would simply let out a collective “meh.” In [...] -More-
New York City (August 8, 2011) — NYC & Company, the official marketing, tourism and partnership organization for the City of New York, today announced the re-launch of nycshop.com, New York City’s official online shop. The site features new and exclusive New York City merchandise and apparel that are not only for tourists, but also [...] -More-
London, 11th August 2011 – Beanstalk, a leading brand licensing agency, today announced that its client, global style leader and fashion icon Paris Hilton, has appointed OEM & Design Company, the leading Asian eyewear manufacturer, to develop an exclusive line of optical frames, sunglasses and coloured contact lenses for the Asian market under the Paris [...] -More-
NEW YORK (August 09, 2011) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced that FAB*Starpoint (www.fabny.com) has been granted the rights to produce and sell a wide range of Back-to-School products – including Backpacks, Bags, and School Supplies for sale throughout the US and Canada – featuring Zoodorable™, the new property from pop artist / [...] -More-
MoveableCode Licensed to Publish Tom Arma Step by Story™ eBooks NEW YORK (August 4, 2011) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced a licensing deal granting digital publisher MoveableCode Inc. the right to utilize celebrated photographer Tom Arma’s “costumed cuties” for the publisher’s new Step by Story™ electronic/eBook application (www.stepbystory.com) for smartphones, and popular [...] -More-
Introduces U.S. Army Branded Line of Tents and Sleeping Bags -More-
(New York, NY, August 1, 2011) Sesame Workshop, the non-profit educational organization behind Sesame Street, has named Jennifer Ahearn to the position of Vice President of Licensing, Strategic Partner Relations. Ahearn will report to Maura Regan, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Global Consumer Products. In this role, Ahearn will be responsible for managing [...] -More-
Ukraine’s Vivat is Europe’s Newest Pink Cookie Licensee NEW YORK (July 28, 2011) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced Ukraine’s Vivat Distribution Ltd. as the newest licensee for the popular Pink Cookie® international fashion brand. Vivat has been granted the rights to manufacture and market Pink Cookie School Supplies including exercise books, note [...] -More-
NEW YORK (July 21, 2011) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced two more licensees in Mexico for Jim Benton’s It’s Happy Bunny™, the cute little bunny with the BIG attitude. • Lucky Clover (IFCO S.A. de C.V.) has been granted the rights to produce It’s Happy Bunny Fashion Bags, Fashion Wallets, Cosmetic Bags, [...] -More-
NEW YORK (July 19, 2011) — CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced Jesco Footwear Inc. has joined the fast-growing roster of licensees for the popular Pink Cookie® international fashion brand. Jesco Footwear has been granted the rights to manufacture and market Pink Cookie branded Rain Boots and Slippers for the US market. “Trend-conscious rain [...] -More-
New York, NY, July 25, 2011 — The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) today announced that Adam Berg has joined as Senior Vice President, Membership and New Business Development. A 25-year licensing industry veteran, Berg will spearhead LIMA’s membership growth strategy and will be responsible identifying and developing opportunities within various segments of the [...] -More-
What is brand identity? Several years ago, I participated in a licensing conference at which one of the speakers ruminated on how brand names that once derived their equity from their origins have in some cases become so distant from their roots as to be unrecognizable. The example he used was the Amana brand of [...] -More-
Flagship stores tend to be characterized by cutting-edge creativity, soup-to-nuts assortments, and wow-factor fripperies that reinforce the brand like nothing else can. That’s why they will remain an irresistible option for retailers, even as they shift toward small formats in order to build scale. Manhattan remains a flagship mecca for retailers such as Aeropostale, with [...] -More-
Milan: 13th July 2011: The Giochi Preziosi Group has appointed leading children’s electronics company, Vtech, to produce a new Puppy in My Pocket: Adventures in Pocketville laptop for fans across France, Germany and Spain. The Puppy in My Pocket: Adventures in Pocketville, TV series, co-produced with MEG and Mondo TV, launched this July in all [...] -More-
Programming Categories deadline: September 9 Broadcasting Categories deadline: October 14 July 19, 2011: Heading into its third year of singling out and celebrating the year’s best kids programming and broadcasting work, Kidscreen Awards 2012 is now accepting entries. In the Programming Categories, shows and related websites targeting Preschoolers (0 to 5), Kids (6 to 10) [...] -More-
East Rutherford, NJ July 19, 2011 – M!KE Licensing (www.mikelicensing.com), one of the nation’s leading licensing firms, announced today that Vital Theatre Company, Inc. (www.vitaltheatre.org), a prominent family musical producer with over 10 years of experience creating quality family entertainment, has been appointed exclusive licensee for StinkyKids® (www.stinkykids.com) to create StinkyKids The Musical! The little [...] -More-
Milano, July 20, 2011 — Planeta Junior Italia has signed with Magic S.r.l. – LE PANDORINE for the famous three brands Maya the Bee, Heidi and Pippi Longstocking. The company will develop the brands on fashion bags for women. The most famous Bee in the world is a classic among all the characters of the [...] -More-
PORT WASHINGTON, NEW YORK, July 20, 2011 –According to Kids and Consumer Electronics, 2011 Edition, the latest report from leading market research company, The NPD Group, kids’ inclination to use consumer electronics devices, and their desire for the content they can access using them, helps to drive the household purchasing of these products. When looking [...] -More-
(New York, NY) July 19, 2011 – The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) today announced the addition of six new members to the Board of Directors. The new directors were elected by a vote of the LIMA membership and their terms will run from July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2014. Joining the LIMA [...] -More-
I had the pleasure of speaking with Rick Darling, president of LF USA, following his terrific keynote presentation at the International Licensing Expo in June. LF USA is a subsidiary of Hong Kong-headquartered Li & Fung Limited, the multinational consumer goods export and logistics group. Darling oversees LF USA’s rapidly expanding business in the U.S., [...] -More-
East Rutherford, NJ June 29, 2011 – M!KE Licensing (www.mikelicensing.com), one of the nation’s leading licensing firms, announced today that Kiddo Tags™ (www.kiddotags.com), has been appointed exclusive licensee for StinkyKids® (www.stinkykids.com) for an assorted collection of custom labels. The StinkyKids® custom name label line will complement the current doll line created by licensee Madame Alexander [...] -More-
New York, NY- July 7, 2011 – LMCA (Leveraged Marketing Corporation of America), the world’s premier agency for strategic brand extension licensing for more than 25 years, is proud to announce an exclusive licensing representation partnership with the powerful Uniden brand. With extensive experience in North America, Europe, Asia and other emerging markets, LMCA helps [...] -More-
(New York, NY, July 6, 2011) Sesame Workshop, the non-profit educational organization behind Sesame Street, has promoted Daryl Mintz to Chief Financial Officer. In this capacity, Mintz will report to H. Melvin Ming, Chief Operating Officer. In addition to overseeing all financial functions including Financial Planning, Accounting, Reporting, Treasury and Cash Management, Mintz is responsible [...] -More-
NEW YORK, June 28, 2011 – Beanstalk, a leading global brand licensing agency and consultancy, today announced that it has been selected by Outfit7 as the exclusive, global licensing agency for Talking Friends, the wildly popular series of mobile applications that have become a pop culture phenomenon. Beanstalk will be tasked with launching a worldwide [...] -More-
Legendary estate looks to culinary history for inspiration -More-
Beanstalk to Extend Talking Friends’ Characters into Multiple Product Categories to Engage Users Offline, Connecting Digital and Physical Properties NEW YORK, June 28, 2011 – Beanstalk, a leading global brand licensing agency and consultancy, today announced that it has been selected by Outfit7 as the exclusive, global licensing agency for Talking Friends, the wildly popular [...] -More-
I had the pleasure of speaking with Rick Darling, president of LF USA, following his terrific keynote presentation at the International Licensing Expo. LF USA is a subsidiary of Hong Kong-headquartered Li & Fung Limited, the multinational consumer goods export and logistics group. Darling oversees LF USA’s rapidly expanding business in the U.S., where its [...] -More-
Toy Story 3 takes Best Licensed Program of the Year Award at Licensing Expo 2011 (Las Vegas, NV) June 15, 2011 – Toy Story 3 was presented the Best Licensed Program of the Year Award by the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association last night at the Licensing International Expo 2011 in Las Vegas. The third [...] -More-
How do you add value to a retailer who is already designing, developing, and building a supply chain on an almost direct basis? As a member of last June’s Licensing Expo keynote panel, Rick Darling, president of LF USA, identified this conundrum as one of his organization’s significant challenges. At that time, designing and developing [...] -More-
Fans Tapped to Design Brand Spanking New T-shirt Based on Cartoon Network’s Smash Hit Animated Series What the cabbage?! Looks like it’s time for those ridiculously-talented and artsy Adventure Time fans to take to the Internet and rock out with their most righteous t-shirt designs! Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) and Threadless, the crowdsourcing poster child [...] -More-
LAS VEGAS–Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) arrived at the International Licensing Expo counting down the days until the AUTOBOTS and DECEPTICONS invade theaters worldwide again on June 29, 2011 with the release of the new Paramount Pictures film Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Adding to the excitement will be Hasbro licensees across all major categories bringing [...] -More-
LOS ANGELES–D3Publisher (D3P), a publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software, today announced a worldwide publishing agreement with Nickelodeon for video games based on Victorious, Nickelodeon’s hit live-action comedy series. Victorious: Time to Shine on Kinect™ for Xbox 360® and Victorious: Hollywood Arts Debut for the Nintendo DS™ allows players to dive into the show’s [...] -More-
MALIBU, Calif.–JAKKS Pacific’s (NASDAQ: JAKK) Tollytots® division has signed a worldwide master toy license with Dorel Juvenile Group, Inc. (“DJG USA”), a division of Dorel Industries (TSX: DII.B, DII.A) and the nation’s largest juvenile products manufacturer, for the award-winning and trusted brand of innovative baby products and accessories, Safety 1st®. Under this license agreement, Tollytots [...] -More-
LOS ANGELES–The Farrah Fawcett Foundation has entered into an agreement with Brand Sense Partners, LLC (bsp) and Robert A. Finkelstein, Ltd. (RAF) to identify and execute new business ventures to perpetuate the star’s legacy and to support her non-profit foundation’s mission of raising funding for alternative methods in cancer research, prevention and awareness. “Farrah’s presence [...] -More-
LIMA’s annual North American survey reflects improvement -More-
Come visit us at booth Booth #5468 during the licensing show for free ice cream on behalf of our client Unilever Ice Cream and their brands Popsicle, Klondike, Breyers, Creamsicle, Fudgesicle and Good Humor. -More-
Design icon and leading licensing agency partner to extend brand into home, outdoor and lifestyle categories New York, NY (June 6nd, 2011) – Chris Madden, celebrity interior decorator, best-selling author and designer, has chosen leading licensing agency Brandgenuity to extend the Chris Madden brand and her signature style of ‘turning home into haven’. Known for [...] -More-
Last week, the Interagency Working Group on Food Marketed to Children — which includes representatives of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) — held a public hearing into its proposals that would guide food companies in their marketing efforts toward [...] -More-
June 1, 2011 – The National Cartoonists Society held its 65th Annual Reuben Awards Dinner in Boston over Memorial Day Weekend and Jim Benton, creator of the popular It’s Happy Bunny licensed character, was recognized as a NCS Division Award Winner for excellence in Greeting Cards. “For someone who grew up as such a huge [...] -More-
What do Best Buy, J.C. Penney, and Walmart have in common? For starters, all are among the directional retailers that we have selected as stops on this year’s LIMA retail safari, which will immediately follow my presentation on the State of U.S. Retail, at the 2011 International Licensing Expo in Las Vegas on Sunday, June [...] -More-
UK MARKET INCREASED BY 4% IN FIRST THREE MONTHS OF 2011 London, 16th May 2011 – Despite appearances, children of the digital age are turning to old-fashioned virtues like collecting for their fun these days. According to leading market research company, The NPD Group, the good news for the British toy market is that retail [...] -More-
Penguin Children’s Books won the prize for Children’s Publisher of the Year last night, at the Bookseller Book Industry Awards. Judges declared Penguin to be “the best children’s publisher in the business at the moment” with an amazing all round performance which made the win difficult to argue against. The judges identified the following key [...] -More-
Ah! Battersea! Rolls off the tongue just as well as Westminster, or Bloomsbury. Is it Battersea, though, and not Wandsworth ( really )? Whatever, I’m standing on the 13th floor of the Hotel Verta, overlooking the River Thames, in late February, and I’m wondering if I can persuade one hundred-plus LIMA members to come out [...] -More-
Electrolux Global Brand Licensing and TTI, the global power tool manufacturer, have been European partners for many years under a licensing arrangement that brought AEG power tools to the retail market. Now that partnership has produced a launch in the US as well, with AEG power tools available exclusively for the professional tradesman. Five commercial [...] -More-
The recently-released April retail sales figures for the 25 retailers tracked by Thomson Reuters showed an 8.9% gain in same-store sales for stores open more than a year, which is the best performance since March 2010. Profits at America’s biggest corporations are running 26% higher than they were a year ago, and are on track [...] -More-
Deal includes LazyTown Series 1 & 2 and LazyTown Extra -More-
London: Target Entertainment has appointed Lindsay Pearl as its new Director of Licensing and Children’s Acquisitions. She joins Target in June and will be representing the company at Licensing Expo in Las Vegas. Pearl will be responsible for acquiring new kids content while also heading up Target’s licensing & merchandising division, which includes the management [...] -More-
Milan, May 12 2011. Planeta Junior Italia has signed with Cartorama for products with the brand Maya the Bee Classic version and new 3D version. The company will develop the brand on back to school, gift items, and Christmas articles. At the beginning Cartorama will use the images of Maya Classic and then they will [...] -More-
NEW YORK (May 11, 2011) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today confirmed that Sinerji Ltd. (www.sinerjireklam.com.tr) has been appointed as sub-agent to manage the licensing program for the Pink Cookie® fashion brand in Turkey. “We are already working with Sinerji to establish and grow several of our other brands – such as It’s Happy [...] -More-
Milan, May 9, 2011 Planeta Junior has signed an important deal with RAI to broadcast the animated 3D series Maya the Bee, which will be on air on Rai Due from 2012. In Italy the new series will be in collaboration with Rai Fiction. During the last festival Cartoons on the bay in Rapallo on [...] -More-
Old Bay Seasoning to Extend into Food and Non-Food Categories -More-
NEW YORK, May 3, 2011 – Perfetti Van Melle USA today announced a licensing partnership with Unilever, a leading consumer goods manufacturer, to extend its “out-of-control” fruity-flavored Airheads® candy bars to tangy, chewy and delicious ice pops under the Popsicle® brand. Popsicle® Airheads® ice pops will leverage the brand’s unique flavor profiles and vibrant color [...] -More-
NEW YORK, May 3, 2011 – Beanstalk, a leading global brand licensing agency, today announced a partnership between its client, Airheads, and The Jel Sert Company to introduce Airheads Fruit Squeezers, a line of Airheads fruit flavored beverages. In its first foray into the beverage category, Airheads will pair its iconic Watermelon and Blue Raspberry [...] -More-
Sessions offer must-have advice to develop successful retail strategies in the U.S. and emerging markets -More-
“I don’t believe that if you are going to build a long-term sustainable brand that you can chop up every component part and expect everyone to have a perfect P&L. It just does not work that way.” It would be easy to dismiss a sentiment, like the one posted above, as flippant or even out [...] -More-
Comprehensive lineup of more than 30 sessions will offer expert guidance to grow your business with strategic licensing programs -More-
(12-bar in E) Way down in South West one, that big house lit up fine Said way down in SW1, baby, folks are waitin’ for party time Surely I can’t be the only one, got something on my mind In every corner of every store, honey, Royal wedding gifts ain’t worth a dime Man [...] -More-
New animated transmedia story, interactive web game and outreach experience lets kids put themselves IN The Electric Company -More-
Renowned merchandising, marketing and supply chain expert to address challenges and opportunities for retailers and suppliers in the changing global economy -More-
Wall Street analysts are giddy anticipating the next wave of retail mergers, acquisitions, and buyouts. After a brutal couple of years in retail, money is cheap as the Fed attempts to spark economic recovery with lower interest rates. War chests are deep as lean-running companies make acquisition opportunism a top priority. Recent deals, such as [...] -More-
Brilliantly kitsch and utterly collectable, this iconic paper doll book will appeal to adults and children alike. -More-
May 4 webinar features Mari Luangrath of Chicago’s “Foiled Cupcakes” on ways social media marketing can drive sales and turn consumers into brand ambassadors -More-
Friday 15th April Prestigious property ZhuZhu Pets has picked up yet more Toy of the Year Awards in territories across the globe, in recognition of its international success and popularity. Most recently, the brand picked up a “Golden Bear Award”, for being the Toy of The Year in Russia. This new award was developed for [...] -More-
Licensing industry’s top honor will be presented June 14; voting open to LIMA members until May 13 -More-
Producers behind Sesame Street, FIA Foundation & Global Road Safety Partnership team up to launch global road safety campaign -More-
Submissions for “Am I Ready for Primetime Licensing?” accepted until Friday, May 6 -More-
“Little Red Riding Hood” by Bryan Talbot and Camilla d’Errico has been nominated for Best Short Story in the 2011 Eisner Awards, which will be presented at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con. It is truly a great honor for Camilla to be nominated for the most prestigious award in the comic book industry, and especially [...] -More-
The licensing industry will take center stage once again at the LIMA Opening Night Awards Ceremony on June 14! The Awards Ceremony will take place at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, followed by the Awards Party at 7:00pm at House of Blues. The evening will honor those brands, companies and retailers [...] -More-
April 21 webinar to be presented by Andrea Green of Globally Green Consulting, Cara Bernosky of IMC Licensing, and representatives of TerraCycle and SimsoTex -More-
Join thefFun at Booth 2058 with birthday cake at 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 14 -More-
“How many stores did we get?” That’s a question I got used to asking back in my supplier days; the answers were often thrilling because store counts escalated into the thousands for the first time in history while, at the same time, all-store buys remained the industry standard. At one point, I was managing key [...] -More-
ATLANTA, April 1, 2011 – Brand Licensing Team (BLT), a leading agency in Atlanta specializing in brand licensing, announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) to help expand the Fender® licensing program into new categories and global markets. Fender is the number one U.S. guitar and amplifier [...] -More-
Milan: 1st April 2011 Giochi Preziosi, Plus Licens and Marathon Media are delighted to announce that Dairy4Fun is to be the latest name to join the growing list of Gormiti licensees; having completed a deal to endorse the Gormiti TV series with kids dairy products in Czech Republic, Poland and Slovak Republic. The agreement set [...] -More-
March 28, 2011 – Mumbai, India – Pioneering Bollywood blockbuster film studio Yash Raj Films (YRF) appoints The Wild East Group to manage its licensing program for social expressions and other popular consumer good product categories. Under the guidance of Wild East Group President, Sid Shah, The Wild East Group will leverage its expertise and [...] -More-
May 12 event includes Spring Fling Networking Reception -More-
The following comes from Fumihiko “Pochi” Kusama, Managing Director of LIMA Japan, and Roger Berman, Advisor Dear fellow LIMA members and global licensing industry colleagues, At this time of writing (Saturday 19th March), just over one week has passed since the Tohoku-Pacific Ocean Earthquake struck Japan at 14:46 local time on Friday, 11 March 2011. [...] -More-
LOUISVILLE, KY – IMC Licensing, the nation’s leading full-service licensing agency specializing in consumer product brands, announced today that its co-founders have been selected to moderate a seminar during the annual SymphonyIRI Group Summit 2011 to be held March 28 – 30, 2011 in Miami Beach, Florida. IMC Licensing Co-Founder and President Cara Bernosky and [...] -More-
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. and BENTONVILLE, Ark., March 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Universal Pictures and Walmart today announced a retail program tied to the upcoming live action/CG-animated comedy Hop, the second film from Illumination Entertainment (Despicable Me) that hits movie theaters across the country on April 1. Walmart customers can build their Hop-themed Easter baskets, and [...] -More-
LIMA to honor Nickelodeon Consumer Products President at Licensing International Expo 2011 in Las Vegas -More-
Over 80 companies joined in Southern Europe -More-
Over the past couple of years, I’ve contended that transparency would be the next game-changer for retailers and brands, and the latest surge of show-and-tell schemes certainly bears that out. How is the licensing community responding? A new wave of open-door regulation in retail (both self-directed and imposed), begs licensors and licensees to incorporate regulatory [...] -More-
I’ve often heard discussions of instances when sponsorship and licensing butted heads, but had never really been conscious of running into one as a consumer. Then came my journey to Brand Licensing Central & Eastern Europe earlier this month. I was passing through Heathrow airport, including killing some time in the still gleaming Terminal 5 [...] -More-
Over the past decade, many retailers have set their sights on centralization, aiming to speed up trend and markdown reaction, achieve greater efficiency of scale, and maintain brand and assortment consistency. Although slow to embrace the shift to centralization, J.C. Penney took the plunge in the early 2000’s, abolishing its store-level buying structure under growing [...] -More-
Emmy Award winning television personality and designer to launch branded line of bed and bath products scheduled to hit stores this Spring -More-
Combine unique styles to create a collection of six Momiji dolls and an array of everyday essential accessories -More-
February 18, 2011: In last night’s high-profile KidScreen Awards 2011 presentation event at KidScreen Summit in New York, the year’s best work in children’s television programming and broadcasting was singled out and celebrated by the global kids entertainment industry. Determined by two panels of highly respected professional judges, content awards in the Programming and Creative [...] -More-
Milano, February 16, 2011 Planeta Junior Italy has signed an agreement with Mauricio de Sousa Productions for the property Ronaldinho Gaucho’s team, developed in collaboration between the player Ronaldinho, Footballer of the Year in 2009, and the famous Brazilian cartoonist Mauricio de Sousa. The cartoon series for TV, produced by GIG Italia, is aimed at [...] -More-
Lisle International Licensing, master licensing agent for brand owner Cepia LLC and ZhuZhu Pets®, has appointed Character Licensing & Marketing (CLM) as sub licensing agent for South Africa. Speaking of the appointment Colin Lisle, Managing Partner of Lisle International Licensing said: “The ZhuZhu Pets® toy phenomenon has continued to gather pace in 2010 following a [...] -More-
Corporate brand licensing has already taken off in Asia, with a number of Western brands realizing remarkable success. But in contrast to many highly acclaimed licensing deals, there are numerous spectacular failures. As a brand licensor, you need to understand some of the key differences in licensing practices in Asia versus the West, and adapt your licensing strategy accordingly. -More-
“Our intent is to own outright the strategic territory of ‘well,’ where health and happiness meet.” This ambitious quote may seem well-suited to a chain of clinics, or, even, to an insurance company, but, it actually came last month from Greg Wasson, CEO of Walgreen Co., when he addressed the company’s shareholders. Walgreens is in [...] -More-
Licensing agreements secured in partnership with local licensing agent, Biplano -More-
RIO Licensing becomes a new agent of Sanrio License in Russia and CIS countries. In addition to flagship brand Hello Kitty, RIO licenses Chococat, My Melody, Badtz-Maru, Kuromi, Keroppi, Charmmykitty and Pochacco. The agency was founded by the team who witnessed the origin of licensing market in Russia and has seen triumph introducing Smeshariki brand [...] -More-
Milano, February 14 2011. Planeta Junior Italia has signed with Cromo NB for products with the brand Maya the Bee. The company will develop the brand on greeting cards. The most famous Bee in the world is a classic among all the characters of the animation. Starred in three series of cartoons for 35 episodes [...] -More-
Hello Kitty makes her Wii debut in ‘Hello Kitty Seasons’ from Zoo Games and Sanrio Digital, available now at retailers across europe -More-
2011 consumer products expansion for hit kids property -More-
Kung Fu Panda 2 and Penguins of Madagascar Toy Lines Debut at Toy Fair 2011 -More-
New Delhi, 3rd January, 2011: In an exciting turn of events, Pampered Girls, a leading global lifestyle and fashion brand for girls, will be launching their Kids Collection in India with Dhananjai Apparels Pvt. Ltd. The agreement has taken place under the direction of Bradford License India, a vertical of Franchise India and brand building [...] -More-
Bradford License India has entered into a Brand Management Agreement to represent The Sharper Image® licensing initiatives in India. -More-
World’s most popular monster truck property finds broad growth across multiple consumer products categories including apparel, beverages, toys and wall graphics -More-
Starting on February 10th, the Sanrio Foundation will bring smiles and little gifts to small patients around the UK -More-
App offers social gaming experience through online avatars and opportunity for fun social expression with Purple Ronnie poems and messages -More-
Art of Possibility announces that Hunter Heller will bring his expertise in complex licensing relationships to the company to propel forward its mission of promoting the fine artwork of physically disabled artists under its Art of Possibility® Studios brand. As a licensing strategist with over 16 years experience from diverse media organizations and globally recognized [...] -More-
Plans to extend the Kathy Davis brand into new product categories that leverage her unique artwork and sentiments -More-
(New York, NY – February 7, 2011) The Joan Ganz Cooney Center at Sesame Workshop announced today that Pam Abrams has joined the Cooney Center as Director, Partnership Development and Strategy. In this role, Abrams will develop and manage relationships with businesses, academic institutions and philanthropies that are crucial to the Cooney Center’s mission in [...] -More-
El Ocho signed as licensing agent to help extend the presence of preschool property in Spain -More-
Exclusive collection will feature NBA team logos alongside some of the most renowned Super Heroes in the Marvel Universe -More-
Exclusive marketing and distribution partner in several major European markets, including the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, and Germany -More-
This month, Dressbarn, which operates over 2,400 stores under the Dressbarn, Justice, and Maurice’s monikers, changed its name to Ascena Retail Group since, according to CEO David Jaffe, Dress Barn bas become “a fundamentally different company that extends well beyond the original Dressbarn concept and brand.” In their 2010 annual report released this month, the [...] -More-
Permanent museum home in Washington DC to extend Sesame Workshop's educational mission -More-
New items will debut at Spring Fair in February 2011 -More-
New licensees include deals for costumes, apparel, bags, inline rollers and others. -More-
Milano, February 2nd, 2011 – Planeta Junior Italy has signed an agreement with Chorion to be the exclusive licensing agent in Italy for beloved preschool brand, Noddy. The celebrated author Enid Blyton’s most popular creation, Noddy first appeared in 1949 in the classic book, Noddy Goes to Toyland. Since then, the little wooden boy with [...] -More-
New B2B communication portal to specialize in the toy, baby care and licensing business sectors -More-
Episodes launch on KidMango -More-
Well, we do at LIMA anyway. As many of you will know, I consider it a vital part of our work here at LIMA UK to get the word on licensing out to the wider business community. Although we can justifiably claim that licensing is a significant industry, we also must acknowledge that we don’t [...] -More-
New York, NY (January 28, 2011) — MODA Licensing, Inc. is pleased to announce it is a partner in the newly formed entity, Joe DiMaggio, LLC. As a principal of Joe DiMaggio, LLC, MODA is exclusively representing Joe DiMaggio® for all brand licensing and extensions of the Joe DiMaggio brand worldwide. The company was formed [...] -More-
Series launch in Brazil for prestigious boys’ property -More-
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. [For Immediate Release—January 26, 2011] HGTV, the country’s leading home and lifestyle television network, will expand its collection of licensed products with the launch of the HGTV HOME™ brand and three new product lines in the paint, flooring and bedding categories. Sherwin-Williams will launch the exclusive HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams, a line of [...] -More-
Collection to include new product lines in the paint, flooring and bedding categories -More-
President and CEO Carol Spieckerman now featured blogger on the LIMA website, providing actionable retail insight; newmarketbuilders to assist LIMA in developing LIMA-hosted activities and events -More-
“We decided that we are a retailer and we can sell anything.” That seemingly straightforward statement by Andrew Higginson, Tesco’s Chief Executive of Retailing Services and Group Strategy, seemed to raise few eyebrows among attendees at this month’s “Big Show” staged by the National Retail Federation (NRF), but it grabbed my attention because it perfectly describes a mind shift that is transforming retail as we know it. -More-
Licences awarded in publishing, nightwear and puzzle categories months ahead of TV launch -More-
Focus on development of products with images of "Puppy in my Pocket" -More-
New series for CBeebies and huge consumer anticipation -More-
National Child Labor Committee honors Vincent Mai and others who stand up for America’s kids -More-
Polymark Toys, Phone Fashion, and First Kids/Al Khayrat join ever-expanding Pink Cookie global licensing roster -More-
All 30 NBA teams voted to give Majestic Athletic and Wincraft, Inc. inaugural Licensee of the Year awards -More-
Elmo, Big Bird and all the gang are making their return to New Zealand on February 7 on the new look channel FOUR -More-
Bob Traub, Joan Grasso and Lindsay Martinez appointed to executive positions -More-
Full length art book hits shelves January 26th -More-
Stone America announces licensing agreement between University of Oxford and Halo Group -More-
In an Oracle-sponsored presentation that centered on how technology was being used to both enhance the customer experience as well as improve productivity of its newest Disney Store design, Disney’s Stephen Finney offered a basic rationale to answer a basic question: Why would Disney “take on the business risk associated with running a global specialty [...] -More-
Among the overarching themes we encountered during this week’s annual convention of the National Retail Federation in New York were the globalization of retail, retailers’ desire to make themselves into brands as important as those on the products they carry, and the overwhelming role that technology is playing in the sector. The trade show portion [...] -More-
Lisle International Licensing (LIL) and Giochi Preziosi Group announce details of a multi-territory, multi-category licensing agreement -More-
Multi-regional broadcast deal for Chapman Entertainment’s hit pre-school series -More-
Supports the hospitals by donating primary necessities and essential products, as well as Sanrio’s characters to decorate children’s rooms -More-
New line of DIY bridal accessories and embellishments by celebrity wedding planner and television host -More-
Disney Store's innovative new design to open in Canada, Puerto Rico and new international markets -More-
During my early years in licensing the first week of January meant one thing and one thing only: getting ready for Harrogate. This esteemed and historic UK toy fair was seemingly an institution, with all the major toy companies, British and international, exhibiting in this genteel spa town in Yorkshire. The Harrogate fair still continues [...] -More-
Kang-Huneke will now supervise Sesame Workshop’s Corporate Partnerships and Development groups while continuing to serve as General Counsel and Secretary to Sesame Workshop’s Board of Trustees -More-
Andy Sachs brings over a decade of sales experience to Lucks -More-
Over the past several years, the major U.S. sports leagues have become increasingly adept at creating and leveraging “hot market” licensing and merchandising opportunities. For example, though the news release is bereft of actual sales figures, the National Hockey League is crowing over growth of merchandise sales at the recent Winter Classic (the annual outdoor [...] -More-
As I’m faced by a last day’s endeavours before the Christmas break, I wonder has there been anything different about advent this year? I reckon that for the first time I’ve received far more electronic Christmas cards than printed cards. Some plain and simple, a few with bells and whistles, although the latter are now [...] -More-
Fully interactive digital update of classic children’s book arrives in App Store on Dec 22 -More-
GB eye Ltd is incredibly honoured to be named as one of South Yorkshire’s Top 100 companies. To be listed in The Sheffield Star newspaper’s annual review of small and medium businesses within the South Yorkshire area is a fantastic achievement and testament to the hard work by everyone at GB. We are proud of [...] -More-
(Shanghai, CHINA, December 15, 2010) It’s been 27 years since Big Bird first visited China and now he’s back with two new Muppet friends—Elmo and Lily! The trio of feathered and furry characters joined Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street, Shanghai Toonmax Media Co. Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shanghai Media Group, [...] -More-
While merchandise licensing in India is still in a “nascent” stage – to use a phrase heard repeatedly during the two-day Brand Licensing India conference in Delhi this past weekend – the attendance at the conference and the presentations by local retail, manufacturing and licensing executives portend a bright future for the business there. (LIMA [...] -More-
Sesame Workshop, MSD, and China Youth Development Foundation partner to produce emergency response and preparedness content in China -More-
Mary Engelbreit’s "The Night Before Christmas" once again chosen for public reading by the First Lady -More-
Mascots of ‘KawaiiPunk ( -More-
Cars are able to be controlled remotely by iPhone and Android phones with Bluetooth technology and will be available across Asia, Europe and North America -More-
UnitedHealthcare and The Merck Company Foundation partner with Sesame Street in this latest addition to the Workshop’s Healthy Habits for Life initiative -More-
Giochi Preziosi signs new licensee for its Puppy in my Pocket Adventures in Pocketville property, an agreement with Alicante based Claudio REIG SA to produce a musical toy line for Italy and Iberia. -More-
A multi-territory agreement has been made with The Canadian Group to produce a wide range of ZhuZhu Pets® puzzles -More-
NEW YORK (December 2, 2010) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced the signing of Slovenia-based Bount as a new Barcode Kitties™ licensee for a variety of bedding, bath and beach products – including several products specifically for babies – in Italy and much of Southeastern Europe. Bount has been granted the right to [...] -More-
I’m in the midst of a series of visits to shows and conferences in markets where the licensing business is still relatively undeveloped. In recent weeks, that’s included a trip to Zagreb, Croatia for Licensing New Europe, and to Dubai for the Dubai International Character and Licensing Fair. On December 11-12, it will be Brand [...] -More-
It was with some trepidation that Saphia and I arrived at Centre Point at 7.30 am on a sub-zero morning last Thursday, ready to set up for the Licensing Essentials Course. Trepidation due to the harsh weather, that’s to say. With the best part of a week’s worth of snow in the UK, up to [...] -More-
Beanstalk to leverage Tutera’s unparalleled authority in weddings to build his brand across multiple platforms -More-
(New York, NY) December 2, 2010 – The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) was recognized by the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF) for its continued support at CBTF’s annual Promises Kept, Dreams Fulfilled Grants Award Reception in New York on November 16. At the event, CBTF reaffirmed its commitment to the second half of [...] -More-
Users Can Get Unlimited Access to More Than 125 Sesame Street eBooks for $3.99 a Month -More-
The year's "it" doll and #1 toy sees brand expansion with Mini Lalaloopsy -More-
New Hydration Line Designed for Athletes Will Incorporate Industry-Leading Technology -More-
Sun Ce Products Ltd. of Cyprus has been signed as a new licensee for a wide range of Back-to-School Pink Cookie products to be distributed throughout the Middle East and North Africa. -More-
Big Plans including Royal Engagement and 2012 Olympic coins -More-
A sharp-eared friend heard one of my rare appearances on the radio yesterday. Last summer I was asked to contribute to a Radio 4 programme about Calvin and Hobbes, the famous syndicated cartoon strip. The show was presented by UK comedian Phil Jupitus, who is a big fan of the strip. The reason I was [...] -More-
Customized Kramer Assault Guitars to be Painted by Amazing Artists with Auction Proceeds Benefitting the Gibson Foundation Miami, FL, 11/16/10 – From December 3rd – December 5th, 2010, Gibson and Kramer Guitar, in partnership with their friends at Outta My Mind Creations and MaiHiro, plan to unveil an exhibition set within the heart of Miami’s Design District [...] -More-
Welcomes New Partners in Spain & Portugal, Eastern Europe and India -More-
I just finished moderating a really good LIMA webinar, with Will Thompson of Changes Inc. and Rick Mallow of Making Connections offering their perspectives on how licensees evaluate licenses -- and the companies that own them. -More-
In addition to brand owners, manufacturers and agents, LIMA Germany's annual Licensing Market in Munich last week drew an impressive array of key retailers. The day was capped off by the presentation of the LIMA Germany 2010 Awards at a gala evening networking event. -More-
Vivid have signed master toy rights for preschool sensation Everything’s Rosie, the top rated Cbeebies hit girls series from V&S Entertainment. -More-
Licensing agreement will produce a new line of ice cream, sherbet and frozen dessert treats for all ages. -More-
Leading licensing agency to leverage Dow and GREAT STUFF brands to boost Dow’s retail presence, tapping into growing DIY movement -More-
Hot Topic stores in the U.S. and Canada to feature exclusive merchandise boutique area dedicated to the highly anticipated final film along with special mobile game -More-
Discovery Bay Games Ringling Bros.TM Mini Pop-Out Puzzles Win Pop-Out Puzzle Category in 2010 Creative Child Awards Program -More-
Workshop promotes Scott Chambers to Senior Vice President, Worldwide Media Distribution; Mike Khouri to Vice President, Home Video and Audio Distribution; and Jennifer Perry to Vice President of Publishing -More-
Smith joins as Vice President of Formal Learning; Solanki as Vice President of Business Planning and Analysis -More-
MetLife Foundation Awards USD $500,000 Grant to the Nonprofit -More-
Pink Cookie stationery products to launch through Tilibra’s Grafon’s Brand -More-
The Hong Kong International Licensing Show will be held on 10-12 January, 2011. -More-
LIMA Southeast Asia will be sponsoring a Licensing Conference at The Singapore Toys, Games & Comic Convention on December 10, 2010. -More-
Disney Tinker Bell only children's magazine named to the list of 15 magazines -More-
Maura Regan named SVP of Global Consumer Products while Jessica Giat is promoted to VP of Licensing, Partner Relations -More-
LMCA has named Alan Kravetz as Executive Vice President. -More-
NEW YORK (October 26, 2010) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced Intimo Licensing Inc. (www.intimo.com) as the newest licensee for the popular Pink Cookie® international fashion brand (www.pinkcookiedesign.com); New York-based Intimo has been granted the right to manufacture and market Pink Cookie Junior Sleepwear, Daywear, Loungewear, Underwear, and Robes. “Intimo has a great [...] -More-
Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street, has promoted Anita Stewart to Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships, Sesame Workshop. -More-
Part 1 Of The Final Chapter Storms Into Theaters November 19, 2010, Part 2 Will Be Released on July 15, 2011. -More-
Costumes will feature WWE Superstars and Legends such as John Cena, Undertaker, Rey Mysterio, Stone Cold Steve Austin and Rowdy Roddy Piper. -More-
Continuing its unique position in reaching out to targeted communities, Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street, has promoted Dr. Jeanette Betancourt to Senior Vice President for Outreach and Educational Practices at Sesame Workshop. -More-
Stone America Licensing, one of the nation’s leading licensing firms, announced today it has been appointed as the exclusive licensing agent by Technical Knockout Inc. known as TKO, a world leader in fitness, strength and boxing equipment. -More-
Leading family entertainment producer and consumer products licensor Chorion is embarking on three major promotions this autumn for its hit global fashion and novelty brand Mr. Men and Little Miss. -More-
Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street, has named Dr. Charlotte Frances Cole to Senior Vice President, Global Education, announced Gary E. Knell, President and CEO. -More-
Established in 1985, Peace Frogs is celebrating its 25th anniversary and has signed four more licensing deals from Brentwood Licensing. -More-
The It’s Happy Bunny™ global licensing continues to grow as CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced the appointment of EXTEND Brands to manage the licensing program for the popular and award-winning humorous character brand throughout India. -More-
LIMA is seeking Regional representatives for the East Coast and the West Coast in the United States. -More-
The Licensing Essentials Course, now in its seventh year, is designed to boost licensing know-how and give access to the latest thinking, best practice, and new trends in licensing and merchandising. -More-
Join flip members as we gather at The Ainsworth in New York to catch up with old friends and meet new faces in the industry! -More-
Effective immediately, Next Day Art, a Portland-based art licensing company, announces the formation of a new partnership with Italian design company, Design Bank, located in Milan, Italy. The new partnership will allow U.S. based manufacturers access to Design Banks entire collection of designs through Next Day Art. -More-
MODA Licensing, Inc. has been appointed as the exclusive licensing agent for Taste of Home, the #1 Cooking Magazine in the world. Taste of Home is the world's leading multi-platform provider of food, cooking and entertaining content. -More-
Charlie Brown and the rest of the PEANUTS cast of characters are coming to Poptropica this month with the launch of "Great Pumpkin Island." Now available to Poptropica Members with Early Access, the site's 15th Island will be available to the public on Oct. 14. -More-
Dr. Seuss and Colorbok have partnered to create a line of craft products that offer hands on activities for a wide range of ages, available exclusively at Michaels, North America’s largest arts and crafts specialty retailer, beginning in fall 2010 and expanding in spring 2011. -More-
Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) and MEGA Brands (TSX: MB) announced today that they have entered into a global licensing agreement to develop construction toys based on the new boys action series, Generator Rex. -More-
Pacific Animation Partners (the Joint Venture formed by JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (NASDAQ: JAKK) and Dentsu Entertainment USA, Inc. to produce and distribute original new animation entertainment) and FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) announce that The Topps Company, Inc., a leading creator and marketer of sports and entertainment cards, related collectibles and best-selling confectionery brands, has signed on for the new animated entertainment project, MONSUNO™. -More-
LIMA, in partnership with Business for Social Responsibility (BSR), Hasbro, Mattel, NBC Universal and The Walt Disney Company, will present the upcoming webinar, “Managing Social and Environmental Compliance in the Supply Chain.” -More-
LIMA is now accepting submissions for speakers and sessions for the Licensing University™ conference program to be held in conjunction with the Licensing International Expo 2011 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas. -More-
Disney Consumer Products and JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (Nasdaq: JAKK) introduce the new Princess & Me lifestyle brand of large “friend” dolls inspired by beloved Disney Princess characters at a special event at Toys”R”Us Times Square. -More-
LIMA continues its webinar series with “Valuing Your Brand and Licensing Property for Sale or Securitization." -More-
Getting back last night after BLE 2010, for once I was grateful to be arriving at an empty house. With my family all away on sundry musical/business and educational missions, only my ageing cat, Alice, was around. Alice, being a typical feline, is far too wise to expend energy on conversation, so I was free [...] -More-
The Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant tops the list of most popular NBA jerseys in Europe for the third consecutive year. -More-
Last week, I stopped into the Hot Topic store in the spanking new Santa Monica Place shopping center in Southern California and noted an interesting pattern in the adult Halloween section. Virtually all the adult costumes were private label SKUs that verge on knock-offs of licensed properties ( i.e. “Miss Wonderland” that could be seen [...] -More-
LIMA is extending its international reach yet further with the appointments of its first official representatives in Spain and Portugal, Eastern (New) Europe and India. Each in-country partner will be tasked with creating educational and networking opportunities for the licensing industry as well as promoting their individual markets to the LIMA membership globally. -More-
The Trump Organization and Hallmart Collectibles Inc. are pleased to announce a new partnership to produce Trump Home bedding. The collection will include sheets, duvets, shams and bedding accessories. -More-
London/New York, 28 September 2010: Leading family entertainment producer and consumer products licensor Chorion is celebrating 40 years of the global phenomenon, Mr. Men and Little Miss in 2011. Launching exclusively at Brand Licensing Europe is the newest addition to the loveable Little Miss family, Little Miss Princess. Chorion has also secured a raft of [...] -More-
Giochi Preziosi’s and Marathon Media are delighted to announce that Undercover GmbH is the latest firm to join the growing list of Gormiti licensees; having completed a deal to produce Gormiti licensed back to school products for Germany, Austria and Switzerland. -More-
LIMA is stepping up its membership support in the UK with the appointment of a full-time Member Services Manager. -More-
The following also appears as a column in the Fall/Autumn issue of Total Licensing magazine, viewable at http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/d5f6ae6e ****** Years ago, I attended a business conference whose featured speaker was Alan Greenspan, best known recently as the former Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, a key economic policy-setting part of the U.S. government. When he [...] -More-
Thursday last saw the fifth annual Licensing Awards in London in the new format launched by the team at Max Publishing in 2006. The occasion lived up to all expectations with plenty of entertainment, from comedian Chris Addison to the plethora of special videos created by a variety of UK licensors and event sponsors. More [...] -More-
Saban Capital Group, Inc. announced today that its affiliate has acquired renowned lifestyle company Paul Frank Industries (PFI) including all company assets and intellectual property, an extensive design portfolio including more than 150 characters, headlined by the omnipresent monkey Julius. Saban Brands, an affiliate of Saban Capital Group, Inc., will be responsible for the management of the company’s business strategy moving forward. -More-
IMC Licensing, the nation's leading full-service licensing agency specializing in consumer product brands, announced today that it has negotiated two new licensing agreements for Borghese Inc., a leading global cosmetic, skincare, fragrance, and spa company. -More-
LIMA has hired PR consultancy The PR Network to boost awareness of its membership activities in the UK and to educate the UK business community about the benefits of licensing. -More-
LIMA's next webinar will throw a spotlight on “Art Licensors’ Top 10 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them.” The session, which will be hosted by Ketra Oberlander, Founder of Art of Possibility LLC, will explore strategies and tactics to sidestep common roadblocks to success and offer practical solutions to typical challenges faced by those in the art licensing sector. -More-
Dates, times, locations, and registration details for upcoming networking events. -More-
Meet and mix with international flip (future licensing industry professionals) members, and enjoy a nearby cocktail after the show closes. -More-
All licensing is built around emotion. A brand might evoke trust, nostalgia, ruggedness or some other property. A character might play on humor, cuteness or some other feeling. Sports licensing is built on team identification, the classic logo, or maybe commemoration of an achievement. -More-
LIMA is pleased to announce its sponsorship of the Brand & Character Licensing Zone at the Creative Market Tokyo 2010 trade fair taking place at Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Center) October 13-15 2010. -More-
Yogi Berra – the Hall of Fame baseball player perhaps better known for his alleged malaprops than for his considerable playing skills – was once quoted as having said about a restaurant: “Nobody goes there anymore. It’s always too crowded.” The irony of that remark popped into my mind over the past week whenever anybody [...] -More-
It says a lot about Lois Sloane that she chose to name her agency SloaneVision Unlimited. As a creative thinker and marketer, her vision wasn’t limited to replicating that which had come before, but rather moved well — to use a tired but appropriate phrase — outside the box. It was apparent by the large [...] -More-
I attended and spoke at a two-day Brand Licensing and Merchandising Show, staged earlier this month in New Delhi by License India. Licensing is still a relatively small business in India, and this event – more workshop and seminar than show — is one of many being assembled by License India in Delhi, Mumbai and [...] -More-
The Toy Industry Association sent an alert to its NY-based members this week, asking them to contact City Council members urging defeat of a bill that would ban the use of phthalates and BPA in toys sold in New York City. The text of the TIA alert is reproduced below: Dear New York City Toy [...] -More-
Today’s announcement that Macy’s has become the exclusive U.S. department store retailer of Sean John men’s sportswear is only the latest in a long line of retailer moves that is having a profound effect on the licensing business. In a phased rollout beginning in Spring 2011, Macy’s and macys.com will be the only retailers selling [...] -More-
This morning’s announcement of the purchase of the Peanuts characters and United Media Licensing by a joint venture formed by the heretofore fashion-centric Iconix Brand Group and the family of Peanuts icon Charles Schulz is indeed a stunner. There have been many rumored suitors since UM parent E.W. Scripps announced earlier this year that it [...] -More-
I spent an interesting afternoon last week listening to Michael Stone’s guest lecture to 35 students in an MBA class at Boston University. The 90-minute lecture – initiated via an initial contact by LIMA — was part of a branding course taught by Associate Professor Susan Fournier. Interestingly, Stone’s opening thesis didn’t present licensing overtly [...] -More-
Just back from a hastily re-arranged trip to Bologna. Hastily re-arranged courtesy of the British Airways cabin-crew strike, but rearranged in different ways, too. I’ve been a regular visitor to Bologna in early spring since 1981, to the long-standing Children’s Book Fair. Publishing is a core activity for licensing, of course, and anyone in children’s [...] -More-
The inaugural Brand Licensing Central & Eastern Europe earlier this week had a good buzz about it for its two-day run in Budapest. Though their goals coming into the show varied -– some were looking primarily to find new licensees, others more to cement and enhance existing relationships – the 18 exhibitors seemed by and [...] -More-
U.S. media company EW Scripps said Tuesday announced that it’s “exploring strategic options for United Media Licensing, the wholly owned character licensing operation of United Media. Among the possible outcomes of the exploratory process are a sale or joint venture involving all or part of United Media Licensing. Another option is to keep operating the business [...] -More-
Rick Isaacson, one of the true “characters” of the licensing business, who was a key builder of the sports licensing business as one of the earliest and longest-tenured employees of IMG, died over the weekend after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Rick was a valued friend, source, sounding post for me and many others [...] -More-
File this under “Just when you thought you’d seen everything involving rights issues…” Washingtonpost.com this morning has an article a suit filed ni France by infamous terrorist Carlos the Jackal to protect his image’s use in a documentary on his life. Read it at http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/25/AR2010012503690.html?hpid=moreheadlines -More-
Ran into an unexpected licensing application during a trip through Mattel’s pre-Toy Fair sneak preview. Under its Radica brand, the company this fall will introduce Twitter-licensed “Puppy Tweets” — a system that includes an electronic tag to be hung from a dog’s collar, a USB receiver, and a software download. Create a Twitter™ account for [...] -More-
I’ve recently returned from India where I chaired the second annual Brand Licensing Conference in Delhi. As in all sectors of business, licensing looks upon India and its sensational economic growth with ambitious eyes. The large middle class, the high level of graduate education, the improving retail environment, all make for a heady mix to [...] -More-
“Anyone who hasn’t been thinking of their licensing business in global terms is in trouble.” That statement by a U.S.-based licensing agent is both a comment on the state of the U.S. retail scene in 2009, as well as an acknowledgement about where the biggest growth is likely to come from in the years ahead. [...] -More-
Speculation of about a possible purchase of Playboy by Iconix Brand Group – owner of such fashion brands as Ecko unltd, London Fog, Joe Boxer, and Starter — spotlights the vibrancy of strategic brand licensing as an important business model. Iconix’ interest in Playboy stems from its value as a lifestyle brand, not as the [...] -More-
The fact that the third quarter numbers published earlier this week by NPD Group, GfK Chart-Track Ltd and Enterbrain showed a decline in unit sales of videogame software couldn’t have surprised anyone vaguely familiar with the category. In Japan, unit sales were off 15% from the year-earlier period (which itself was off 20% from the [...] -More-
Just in case you’ve missed our emails… Mark your calendar to come hear Dan Stanek, EVP of consulting group TNS Retail Forward in the first-ever FREE Keynote Session at Licensing Expo. Dan’s a dynamic speaker, and will address the ongoing shifts in consumer attitudes and shopping patterns, and give insights into which of those shifts [...] -More-
The sometimes uneasy relationship between promotions and consumer products licensing hits the headlines again. Two years after laying off the vast majority of its consumer products licensing business to The Beanstalk Group, Universal Studios is bringing it back inhouse, creating Universal Partnerships and Licensing (UP&L). The move brings product licensing into the orbit of Stephanie [...] -More-
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