As a benefit to our members, LIMA will be offering a small meeting area, The LIMA Meeting Annex, on the show floor at Licensing International Expo. Table space is limited and may be reserved in advance for those members wishing to hold a meeting during show hours. The LIMA Meeting Annex is adjacent to LIMA’s [...] -More-
“We all love stories!” And UK and US preschool television audiences love Driver Dan’s Story Train! The delightful train-driving lion, who enjoys reading stories while having fun with his friends, is now being championed in two key markets by two leading names in the licensing industry. Rocket Licensing in the UK and Licensing Street in [...] -More-
Melbourne, AUSTRALIA – May 14, 2012 –Moose Toys announces several additional licensees joining The Trash Pack licensed merchandise program in the US market, which already includes previously announced partners such as Parragon Books Ltd. as the master publishing partner for the brand. The new deals were brokered by The Licensing Shop Inc. and include the [...] -More-
May 1, 2012, New York, NY — At the height of 15 year old pop sensation Cody Simpson’s explosion onto the teen music scene, HIS International has acquired the girls’ fashion sportswear rights through a deal with WMG. Cody Simpson has already blazed onto the consumer products arena, taking it by storm with such licensed [...] -More-
Toronto, CANADA — May 03, 2012— 9 Story Entertainment announced today the appointment of CafePress.com as the official E-commerce partner for Almost Naked Animals™. The agreement was brokered by The Licensing Shop Inc. This is one of several announcements planned in the coming weeks as 9 Story unveils plans to develop a robust digital platform [...] -More-
Plus Licens & Design Tokyo to represent Paws, Inc. for all Japanese merchandising, promotional and publishing rights to the Garfield brand Plus Licens is proud to announce that its daughter company Plus Licens & Design Tokyo has been appointed the licensing agent for Garfield in Japan. Jim Davis’ classic comic strip character now has licensing [...] -More-
BOO – The World’s Cutest Dog™ Is New Agency’s Inaugural Property NEW YORK (April 30, 2012) – CopCorp Licensing and TK Brand Group announce the formation of Knockout Licensing (www.knockoutlicensign.com) as a full-service licensing agency for big-name brands. The new agency is a joint venture, with Carole Postal, President of CopCorp, and Tamra Knepfer, President [...] -More-
2012 will see a multi territory dual gender promotion with McDonalds Europe, for both ZhuZhu Pets® and Kung Zhu™ in over 42 countries internationally, excluding the UK. The promotion will take place as early as May in some territories and run until October 2012 and will involve approximately 6245 restaurants in Europe. In addition to [...] -More-
The new location will be used as a base for expanding its activity in Central and Eastern European countries Barcelona, April 24th 2012 – Planeta Junior, a company of reference in Europe in the area of children’s and young people’s leisure, has opened a new office in Prague, Czech Republic, that will be used as [...] -More-
(April 18, 2012 – New York, NY) –LMCA (Leveraged Marketing Corporation of America) has named George Williams as the Managing Director of LMCA Asia. George will be responsible for developing new Asian clients from LMCA’s Shanghai office, managing the Company’s relationship with PepsiCo in China and serving other LMCA clients including Forbes, Sears Holdings (Kenmore®, [...] -More-
NEW YORK (April 19, 2011) – CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal today announced a deal with Boston-based Bare Tree Media (www.baretreemedia.com) which will help bring cartoonist Jim Benton’s It’s Happy Bunny™, the cute little bunny with the BIG attitude, to social networks and virtual worlds. Bare Tree Media has been granted the right to create [...] -More-
CLS: YOUR ROUTE TO AN EDUCATION ON LICENSING! 66 Certificate Of Licensing COURSE CREDITS Will: • Open Doors • Advance Your Licensing Career • Give You Hands-On Experience and a Competitive Edge • Make You a More Proficient, Well-Rounded Licensing Professional Are you new to the licensing industry or looking to sharpen your licensing skills? Enroll today for LIMA’s [...] -More-
Celebrate the Winners. Toast Our Hall of Fame Inductees. Network with Your Colleagues. Kickoff Licensing Expo 2012! Join LIMA for the Opening Night Party on Tuesday, June 12 from 7:00-9:00pm at the House of Blues in Mandalay Bay at the conclusion of the Opening Night Awards Ceremony. Celebrate the start of another exciting show – [...] -More-
EARLY BIRD RATE EXTENDED TO APRIL 30! Now in its ninth year, the Licensing Essentials Course gives you access to the latest thinking, best practice and new trends in the business. If you have team members who are new to licensing, want to brush up their knowledge or maybe work behind the scenes in finance or [...] -More-
Winners of the Industry’s Most Prestigious Prize to be Announced at Ceremony in Las Vegas on June 12 -More-
NOMINEES FOR THE 2012 LIMA INTERNATIONAL LICENSING EXCELLENCE AWARDS Awards will be presented at the LIMA Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, June 12 during Licensing International Expo. Doors open at 5:30; ceremony begins at 5:45. BEST ART OR DESIGN PROGRAM OF THE YEAR Property – Owner/Agent Andy Warhol – The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts [...] -More-
May 17, 2012 – Wyndham Grand Hotel,ChelseaHarbourLondon Now in its ninth year, the Licensing Essentials Course gives you access to the latest thinking, best practice and new trends in the business. If you have team members who are new to licensing, want to brush up their knowledge or maybe work behind the scenes in [...] -More-
The most successful licensing professionals all started somewhere. They may have worked their way up the ranks of a company, tried on different hats within the industry until they got their first “big promotion,” or started their own company. At this year’s Licensing Expo, LIMA will recognize a select group of licensing’s Rising Stars – [...] -More-
LIMA’s bi-monthly webinar series continues on Wednesday, April 18, from 12:00-1:30PM EST with “Insights on the Children’s Market.” This session will cover a broad base of topics related to the kids market such as assessing opportunities by category, understanding differences by season and more. Leading the discussion will be Kathleen Cella, Director of the KIDS [...] -More-
We have heard this statement made by many people for many years. Merchandising around “computer game” brands could surely only be for the hardcore gamer and they are all spotty teenagers who sit in dark rooms and play with their mates. They are “Pizza Geeks” who drink coke and play games all night long. Right? [...] -More-
Tapping into the mega marketplace of India, understanding how children interact with digital media and profiting from licensing as a retailer are just some of the topical subjects being covered at this year’s Licensing Essentials Course, which is being run by LIMA UK on 17th May at the five-star Wyndham Grand Hotel in Chelsea Harbour, [...] -More-
Full Lineup of More than 35 Business-Boosting Sessions is ‘Can’t-Miss’ Prospect for Professionals from All Areas of the Industry -More-
LIMA UK will host its 2012 UK Licensing Essentials Course and Spring Fling Networking event on Thursday 17th May. -More-
REGISTER FOR flip EVENTS IN NEW YORK AND LOS ANGELES THIS SPRING LIMA’s flip group has arranged two excellent learning opportunities this spring in New York and Los Angeles! We welcome anyone who has been in licensing for less than seven years to network with their peers and explore what it means to be [...] -More-
Dynamic Real-Time Licensing Marketplace to Connect Members with Growth Opportunities to Accelerate Their Business -More-
Super Model-Turned-Business Mogul and Designer to Speak on Building a Successful Brand at Industry’s Most Important Event -More-
Induction to Take Place at Annual LIMA Awards Ceremony – Tuesday, June 12, at Licensing International Expo 2012 -More-
February 22, 2012 – The 8th Annual Wonder Women of Toys, Licensing and Entertainment Awards Dinner was held on the opening night of the 109th New York International Toy Fair and celebrated more than 50 of the most influential and impactful women business leaders in toys, licensing and children’s entertainment. The Wonder Women Award Winners [...] -More-
The next session in LIMA’s popular webinar program, “Licensing a Brand in the International Market,” will take place on March 7 from 12:00-1:30pm. This webinar will provide insight into the ways in which licensors and licensees can effectively engage in licensing globally, while mitigating associated risks. Presented by Matthew Young, head of the Electrolux Global [...] -More-
February 16, 2011 – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) announced today that they have appointed The Wild East Group, India’s leading business development and licensing agency, to help develop their brand’s sports merchandising program, globally. The Wild East Group will be working exclusively with KKR to secure best-in-class licensing partners across a range of apparel, fan [...] -More-
London,21st February 2012 — Penguin Children’s Books today announced a global licensing partnership with Activision Publishing, Inc. a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure productsfor a series of books and apps to sit alongside Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure, which was the #1 best-selling kid’s video game of 2011, according to NPD. [...] -More-
Line To Kick-Off With Products Inspired By Summer Blockbuster The Dark Knight Rises MALIBU, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Feb. 16, 2012– Leading U.S. toymaker JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (Nasdaq: JAKK), announced today a licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Consumer Products to manufacture, distribute and market a line of novelty and large scale figures and plush under its Creative Designs [...] -More-
MALIBU, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Feb. 15, 2012– Leading U.S. toymaker JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (Nasdaq: JAKK) announced today a license agreement with Khush, a leading developer of intelligent music applications, to create an innovative new product inspired by the best-selling “Songify” app. Songify, developed in part by YouTube sensations The Gregory Brothers along with Khush, launched in the [...] -More-
MALIBU, Calif., Feb 13, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) –JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (Nasdaq:JAKK) debuts the much-anticipated toy line based on the original animated entertainment franchise Monsuno(TM). The comprehensive toy line, featuring innovative, kid-controlled action figures, accessories, combat sets, collectibles, electronics and integrated role play, brings the larger-than-life adventures of the Monsuno animated series into kids’ hands. “The [...] -More-
The LIMA UK team is just back from a week at Spring Fair at the NEC, the UK’s largest consumer goods trade fair. This is an event that we always attend as visitors. For 2012, a new Licensing Lounge was arranged for the first time, sponsored by several prominent LIMA UK members including BBC and [...] -More-
Iconicfuture (www.iconicfuture.com) has signed the digital merchandising rights for Garfield with its trademark owner and licensor Paws, Inc.. Game developers can acquire the famous lasagna loving cat from Iconicfuture to add as virtual items into their games, mobile applications and virtual worlds. Sharon Bennett, SVP of Business Development and Licensing at Iconicfuture, says: “We are [...] -More-
Just when you thought the cost of television airtime couldn’t climb any higher, thirty-second spots for last Sunday’s Super Bowl XLVI clocked in at a record average of $3.5 million. Although stratospheric, these bucks came with a huge bang, as the NFL anticipated scoring its largest television audience ever with a projected viewership of more [...] -More-
NEW YORK (February 6, 2012) – CopCorp Licensing has appointed Munich-based Team! Licensing to manage the Pink Cookie™ licensing program in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. “We have great trust in the talents of Gerold Kolenbrander, Katarina Dietrich, and the entire team at Team! Licensing,” says CopCorp Licensing President Carole Postal. “We [...] -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-
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-
LIMA UK will be holding its 2012 UK Licensing Essentials Course and Spring Fling Networking event on Thursday 17th May this year. The popular event, which last year drew a record attendance of over 170 participants from the UK and international licensing industry, will take place at a London venue to be announced at a [...] -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-
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-
Due to popular demand Penguin Children’s Books is delighted to announce additional titles in its No1 hit, Ladybird Classic Me Books App, along with an exciting new SAVE feature! -More-
High-quality, consumer-friendly line available beginning January 2012 at leading drugstore chains and retailers nationwide -More-
Update: This event is at capacity. We are no longer accepting registrations. 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 [...] -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-
Richard Haines will be joining the Penguin Children’s Group in the newly created role of Acquisitions Manager for the Media and Entertainment division. -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-
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-
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-
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-
The golden ticket will give 5 lucky winners the chance to tour the world famous Abbey Road studios. -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-
Puffin Books announces that Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever has become the fastest selling book of 2011. -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-
Licensed merchandise brings together all 12 sectors of UK’s leading retail trade exhibition. -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-
Milan, November 14, 2011 — Planeta Junior Italia has signed an important agreement with DQ Entertainment for The Jungle Book series. The series aired with great success on RAI Due, will be back on air in 2012. The series, produced by DQ Entertainment (India), is animated in 3D CGI, 52×11 for kids 6-9 years. Jungle [...] -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-
DCD Publishing are very proud to announce their appointment as the agent for Emma Forbes and for her lifestyle website, Forbes Style, for television, publishing and merchandising in the UK. -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-
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-
Who dares come and try to take the Southern Quiz Kings championship? Don’t miss out on this great fund-raising night. Last month’s LIMA party was sold out – don’t let this happen to you this time! 17th November at Chelsea Football Club. If you’ve been before, you know what you’re missing. If not, it’s a [...] -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-
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-
Tickets to the LIMA UK Global Networking party, sponsored by Endemol Worldwide Brands, on Wednesday, 19th October 2011 have sold-out. -More-
LIMA UK Membership Numbers Receive a Welcome Boost with Nickelodeon’s Enrollment -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-
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-
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-
Digital specialist AT New Media, licensing agent for Gummy Bear, has announced that a plush line based on the character has launched at retail in territories across southern Europe, the UK and Ireland as well as across the whole of Europe. -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-
Red hot pre-school property Everything’s Rosie will be making its Brand Licensing Europe debut at Stand C030 at this year’s event. Produced by V&S Entertainment Ltd – an independent children’s TV production and distribution company – Everything’s Rosie is an HD CGI animation aimed at girls and boys aged 3 to 6 and comprises 52x11min [...] -More-
GB eye triumph at the Licensing Awards 2011, where they won the category “Best Licensed Paper Products or Stationery Range” with their Star Wars Classic Poster and 3D Poster Range. -More-
AT New Media, licensing agent for the smash-hit internet phenomenon Gummy Bear, has revealed that Turkish telecoms provider BN Telecom is enjoying huge success with a new promotional campaign featuring the character. -More-
Unique music trivia board game released ahead of the 80th anniversary celebrations of Abbey Road Studios. -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-
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-
DCD Publishing are particularly pleased to announce that they have been appointed to represent the Redan Publishing group for licensing their Sparkle World and Redan Fun To Learn brands. -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-
The Natural History Museum is delighted to announce Asiana Licensing Inc as their agent for the Republic of Korea. -More-
MTV Geek will be the exclusive digital home of Camilla d'Errico's literature inspired pop-art series, Tanpopo. The series debuted today on the site along with an in-depth interview and contest giveaway. -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-
As the financial markets are plunged into further sessions of turmoil, I’m wondering whether it’s time to call a halt to the credit reference agencies. Consumer confidence is a delicate beast, and yet in our industry, like many others, we are dependent on it for most of our livelihood. I’m no economist, but the thousands [...] -More-
Endemol Worldwide Brands inaugural sponsor -More-
V&S Entertainment announce a fresh batch of first class licensees for their hit pre-school brand, Everything’s Rosie. -More-
Latest figures from Moonpig.com have shown that cards featuring design-led baby/toddler property Goochicoo were top-sellers for the online retailer for Father’s Day! -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-
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: 14th July 2011 — The Giochi Preziosi Group and Marathon Media have revealed details of a lucrative promotion between home grown boy’s property Gormiti, and cereal giants, Kellogg’s, across Spain and Portugal. The prestigious partnership brings the magic of Gormiti to more than 3,000,000 packs of Kellogg’s products. Mile Pops, Choco Krispies, Chocos and [...] -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-
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-
Netherlands-based company hopes Bumpeez will be the next playground craze. -More-
Four songs from the Lennon/McCartney catalogue will be featured in the guitar shaped key-rings. -More-
Oxford University Press, publishers of the Winnie the Witch children’s books, has appointed Metrostar to manage Winnie’s brand licensing programme. -More-
DCD Publishing are very proud to announce their appointment as the UK licensing agent for Donny Osmond for brand name and likeness through a unique deal which will also see Donny Osmond closely involved in the Puppy Love global merchandising programme. -More-
Smash-hit ITV2 show The Only Way is Essex scooped three top honours at the first ever National Reality TV Awards on July 6th. -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-
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-
Renowned Pop Surrealism and Manga Artist Camilla d’Errico signs on Firefly Brand Management to expand her existing licensing and merchandise program. -More-
For the first time in over a decade, British licensee and licensors were honoured at the prestigious LIMA awards. -More-
Ladybird has today announced that they will be publishing a range of Hello Kitty pre-school titles in September 2011. -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-
We are pleased to have British nominees for this prestigious awards and awards ceremony party. -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-
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. -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-
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-
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-
Camilla d'Errico's independent, underground and cult series, Tanpopo, has a new home and a new look online. -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-
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-
Brilliantly kitsch and utterly collectable, this iconic paper doll book will appeal to adults and children alike. -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-
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-
A host of leading British designers have come together to fly the flag for British fashion with the creation of an exclusive and highly collectible toy, the Princess Catherine Doll. -More-
Start Licensing Ltd, a leading independent licensing agency has secured the third party licensing rights to a portfolio of well known brands from Unilever, comprised of Pot Noodle, Peperami, Bovril and Slim-Fast. Ian Downes, Director of Start Licensing Limited commented: “We are delighted to announce this new partnership. We believe that Unilever’s portfolio presents a [...] -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-
12th May for Licensing Essentials Course and Spring Fling Networking Event -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-
Giochi Preziosi has secured a renewal with its bikes license partner Dino Bikes, for an extended range of Gormiti inspired wheeled toys for Italy. -More-
On Thursday 24th March the funeral will take place of UK licensing veteran John Sinfield. John died tragically earlier this month in an accident while on holiday in Barbados, a destination that he and his surviving wife, Helen Bailey, had come to know and love. Those of us who had the honour to know John [...] -More-
Lisle International is delighted to announce that it has appointed K.E. Mathiasen (KEM) to produce a range of ZhuZhu Pets® licensed apparel and home textiles across the Nordics region. The two year deal has been organised in conjunction with Kidz Entertainment/EEMC, Lisle International’s sub licensing agent for ZhuZhu Pets® in the Nordics and Central Eastern [...] -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-
12th May for Licensing Essentials Course and Networking Event -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-
GB eye are very proud to announce that we have yet again received the ‘Vendor of the year Gold Star Award 2010’ from Poster Service in the US. -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-
LIMA, the trade organisation for the estimated $180+ billion worldwide licensing industry, is calling upon licensors and licensees to put themselves forward for the Annual LIMA International Licensing Excellence Awards. These are the licensing industry’s most influential international awards, recognising outstanding achievements in licensing during 2010 – and will be presented at the LIMA Opening [...] -More-
Licensing agreements secured in partnership with local licensing agent, Biplano -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-
The Lovable 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-
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-
Sanrio Foundation starts a tour among UK paediatric hospitals. Starting in London on February 10th the Foundation will bring smiles and little gifts to small patients around the country. -More-
d’Errico Studios Ltd., the creative company that promotes artist Camilla d’Errico, announced today that a collection of Camilla d’Errico artwork will be available through Canadian art publisher, Eyes on Walls. -More-
Plans to extend the Kathy Davis brand into new product categories that leverage her unique artwork and sentiments -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-
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-
Camilla d'Errico, one of Canada's most prolific and unique female comic art talents, has been nominated for the 2010 Joe Shuster Awards in the category for Outstanding Comic Book Artist. -More-
New B2B communication portal to specialize in the toy, baby care and licensing business sectors -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-
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-
Vancouver’s leading art lady, Camilla d’Errico, announced today that she has inked a “preferred partnership” agreement with PacBlue Printing, Vancouver’s premier small, large and grand format printing company. -More-
Focus on development of products with images of "Puppy in my Pocket" -More-
New series for CBeebies and huge consumer anticipation -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-
Tune into BBC Radio Live 5 at 8pm GMT this Sunday 23rd January to hear LIMA UK's very own Kelvyn Gardner answer questions about licensing from listeners! -More-
Camilla’s d’Errico’s work is available in a full-sized art book collection published by Dark Horse -More-
Probably not unexpectedly, we have received a letter from Clarence House ( the home of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall ) explaining that there will be no official process for licensed merchandise for the wedding of Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton. The letter is marked Private & Confidential, so I’m [...] -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-
The main mission of Sanrio Foundation is to bring smiles and help to children in hospitals around the world. -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-
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-
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-
t the end of a long day I still can’t resist playing the pressured hack with a deadline to get a dispatch out before I have to leave. Owing to a story too long to tell at midnight, I’m spending my last few hours in Mumbai before flying home. I may get to enjoy the [...] -More-
that’s enough shocks – Ed. As I recall, the slogan for the 70s sequel, Jaws 2, was something along the lines of ‘Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water……’. I kind of feel the same way about an article published in The Independent on 4th December. (http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/features/how-toys-took-over-kids-tv-2149373.html). Under the [...] -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-
Topps is delighted to announce that it has won the 2010 Association of Circulation Executives (ACE) ‘Launch of the Year’ award, for the launch of its Match Attax trading card game collection. -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-
Deadline of 26th November! -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-
So the UK has a new Royal wedding to look forward to, and thus, forward-looking LIMA members have been contacting me this week to ask about official rights for merchandise to celebrate the nuptials. You will probably not be surprised to learn that such matters have to be dealt with in writing, and no-one at [...] -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-
LIMA UK, part of the worldwide trade organisation for the licensing industry, is hoping to galvanise the UK licensing industry into online action with the launch of a new Twitter page, a Linked-in group and a Facebook page focusing specifically on the UK market. -More-
Leading licensing agency to leverage Dow and GREAT STUFF brands to boost Dow’s retail presence, tapping into growing DIY movement -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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
Eagle-eyed LIMA members will have already seen the addition to the events calendar of a flip networking evening in London during Brand License Europe 2010. -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-
A sunny Thursday in London and we’re in town for the LIMA Licensing Essentials Course and Spring Fling. We’ve enjoyed record attendances for our last few seminars so we’re all a little disappointed that we’re down on numbers for the full day. On the plus side we had a number of key retailers send staff [...] -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-
This year LIMA has made a special effort to encourage wider participation in the international awards to be presented in Las Vegas in June. In previous years members could be forgiven for assuming that the awards were too focussed on North American companies. I’m pleased to say that the LIMA push has produced a very [...] -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-
In the midst of the early-year trade fairs around the world – stretching through Hong Kong to Nuremberg, London, Birmingham, Atlanta, New York and Las Vegas, among many others — there seems to be a recurring theme: retail sales have slowly improved, inventories have gotten in line, and buyers are buying again, rather than battening [...] -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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