Licensing Source Book Europe - Summer 'Vegas' 2018

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Leader

Inset: LSB’s Rob Willis, Jakki Brown and Ian Hyder at the B&LLAs, while Samantha Loveday (below right) delivered Tesco’s Natalie Ackerman with the proof of her winning the ‘money can’t buy’ David Bowie Golden Disk raffle prize, donated by TLP’s Russell Dever.

s 2018 has settled into a somewhat erratic we need to be nimble on our feet and see the rhythm, the changing retail landscape, (if we changes as an opportunity for growth into didn’t know it before), has made its lumps and new places. crevasses abundantly clear.

One area of growth, of course, is the brand and Toys R Us in the UK– a stalwart of lifestyle sector of the licensing business – many childhoods – is now gone; like ably demonstrated by the success of the Woolworths and BHS before it, the third Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards victim of switching consumer in April. We’d like to thank everyone for shopping habits (among other things). their continued support and positive As LSB went to press, Sainsbury’s feedback. If you couldn’t make it along, announced its intentions to merge you can check out all the winners and with Asda – to create one of the UK’s photos on pages 76-89. leading grocery, general merchandise Our focus now turns to The Licensing and clothing retailers that would Awards in September, however there’s eclipse Tesco’s current dominant market share if the also the small matter of Licensing Expo and a 325deal goes through. mile bike challenge in aid of The Light Fund on the Like a number of industries, licensing will inevitably horizon – both of which you can read more on in this be affected by these changes. But when we asked issue. A couple more dates for your diaries include key licensees for their views on the future of the Summer Treasure Hunt (July 12) and the licensed product at retail, it was gratifying to Golf Day (September 6), both supporting the find that many were readily embracing new industry charity. distribution channels, shoring up their As ever, we’d love to hear your feedback, so businesses to help them move and adapt to please do get in touch or catch up with the the new shopping habits of consumers. team over in Las Vegas.

All were confident that licensed products – Here’s to an energetic summer of licensing! be that toys, apparel, stationery, Samantha Loveday, Jakki Brown, Ian Hyder, confectionery, publishing or homewares – Rob Willis, Fiona Pavely, Keith Pashley and With this issue: would have a good future at retail, it’s just the Michelle Board. on Nickelode methods of reaching consumers will change.

The LSB Team Special n The overall message is that, as an industry, Publicatio

A

Samantha Loveday - Editor Ian Hyder - Joint Managing Director Jakki Brown - Joint Managing Director and Editorial Director Rob Willis - Publishing Director Fiona Pavely, Michelle Board and Keith Pashley - Wordsmiths Extraordinaire Mark Grayson – Creative Director Tel: 020 7700 6740 E-mail: ianh@max-publishing.co.uk Copyright 2018. The publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers nor any organisation mentioned in the text.

Publishers of

ISSN 1234 567.

@licensingsource

LICENSING SOURCE BOOK EUROPE 2018

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Visit us at Licensing Expo 2018

Stand D196

©Frog Box/Ent. One UK Ltd/Disney 2014 © ABD Ltd/Ent. One UK Ltd 2003 © TEF Ltd/Ent. One UK Ltd 2008

For more details please contact: Email: eOneLicensing@entonegroup.com Website: entertainmentone.com

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CONTENTS

What’s Inside?

48-49 In Focus: Rick & Morty 52-53 Vickie’s Vegas 10-15

State of the Nation: Corporate Happenings

17

Statistical Evidence

20-21 Movers & Shakers 22-23 Downes & Out by Start Licensing’s Ian Downes

54-55 Licensing Expo Nuts & Bolts 57-68 Licensing Expo Preview 71 The Light Fund Cycle Challenge 72-75 Global Flavours 76-79 The B&LLAs 2018 On Camera

26-29 Licensee Feedback: The Changing Retail Landscape

80-89 The Winners of The B&LLAs 2018 90-91 Going Nuts About Peanuts

32-33 Industry Issue: Environmental Concerns

92-95 State of the Nation: Brands

34-37 Retail Round-Up

98-99 In Conversation With…Platinum Films and Bear Grylis

40-41 David Riley’s Chapter & Verse

100-101 In Focus: NERF

42-43 In Conversation with Emoji

104-105 Trend: Feelgood Brands

44-45 Face to Face: Vivid 108-109 State of the Nation: Sports Licensing 112-113 Focus on the FA 114-159 The Licensed Properties Section 160-187 The Licensees’ Showcase LICENSING SOURCE BOOK EUROPE 2018

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Penguin V we tell the

2018 - celebrating 40 years of The Snowman™

2019 - Happy 30th Birthday to Elmer, the patchwork elephant For more information about our brands and for licensing opportunites please get in touch.

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n Ventures

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complete story

The Snowman™created and illustrated by Raymond Briggs, is one of the world’s most popular children’s books, selling in excess of nine million copies worldwide. Adapted for the screen in 1982, the Oscar nominated animation has become a much-loved Christmas favourite.

The sequel, The Snowman™ and The Snowdog, premiered on Christmas Eve 2012, and the adorable Snowdog has found a firm place in the hearts both of the nation and of a new generation.

• • • • • • • •

Both films have a 20+ year broadcast commitment in the UK from Peter Channel Rabbit 4, and a global reach inFlower over 20 other territories Faires including Japan and North America Refreshed Snowman website launching in 2016 (www.thesnowman.com) with full tablet and mobile optimisation.

Active seasonal Facebook community (6.5k likes) New My First Christmas style guide supplement for baby and infant with first product launching Christmas 2016 Over 80 licensed partners covering toys, apparel, gifting, food, toiletries and homewares Major UK public art trails launched in 2016 with Wild in Art in Brighton (Snowdogs by the Sea) and the Tyne and Wear region (Great North Snowdogs) local hospices Ladybird BookssupportingFun with Spot Key territories are UK, Japan and South Korea, with further The Vintage Collection international growth opportunities Seeking partners in key territories for corporate partnerships, promotions and live events

Softlines: Jen Greenway - JGreenway@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk Hardlines: Anna Metcalfe - AMetcalfe@penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

All brands TM & © 2018 The Snowman™ © Snowman Enrerprises Ltd 2016 The Snowman™ and The Snowdog © Snowdog Enterprises Ltd 2016

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STATE OF THE NATION: CORPORATE

Business Matters

Below: Power Rangers is marking its 25th anniversary this year.

It’s certainly been a bumper three months for news in the licensing industry – from property acquisitions and familiar faces launching fresh ventures, through to major anniversary celebrations and international expansions. LSB rounds up just some of the latest activity.

Hasbro to acquire Saban’s Power Rangers Hasbro is to acquire Saban’s Power Rangers and several other entertainment brands in a deal valued at around $522 million. The acquisition is expected to officially go through in the second quarter of 2018.

The deal also includes other Saban entertainment brands including My Pet Monster, Popples, Julius Jr, Luna Petunia and Treehouse Detectives among others.

Brian Goldner, Hasbro’s chairman and ceo, said that, following the company’s deal to become the master toy for Power Rangers earlier this year, it became clear how much potential was in the brand.

He commented: “Shortly after entering into our licensing arrangement, it became clear that now was the time to begin investing in unlocking Power Rangers’ full potential.

“We see significant opportunity for Power Rangers across our entire Brand Blueprint, including toys and games, consumer products, digital gaming and entertainment, as well as geographically throughout our global retail footprint.”

Brian (who is being inducted into the LIMA Hall of Fame at this year’s awards) continued: “We couldn’t be more pleased that Haim Saban will continue in a consulting role to further guide our development of this valuable property for the next generation of Power Rangers fans.”

Haim Saban, founder of Saban Brands and creator of Power Rangers, added: “25 years after launching Power Rangers, I believe the future for this brand has never been greater.“ The first set of products from Hasbro will be available from spring 2019.

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Max Arguile debuts Reemsborko Former GB eye exec, Max Arguile has opened the doors of his own specialist licensing consultancy, Reemsborko.

The aim of Max’s new company is to fill what he sees is a gap in the market Above: Max will focus for consultancy in new media and on animé, video and emerging areas such as animé, video and mobile gaming, plus mobile gaming, along with specialised art art and design brands. and design brands.

Reemsborko will offer a full consultancy service for licensees eager to work with different properties that will stand out on the shelves in the UK market.

The new company will also advise on future trends.

Sainsbury’s and Asda to merge Sainsbury’s has confirmed plans to merge with Asda – with the deal creating one of the UK’s leading grocery, general merchandise and clothing retail groups.

Sainsbury’s currently has 13.8% market share, while Asda (which is currently owned by US supermarket giant Walmart) has 12.9% – this means the combined force would exceed Tesco’s 25% market share.

A statement said there would be no job losses or store closures as a result of the merger.

However, prices would be expected to lower by c.10% on many of the products customers buy regularly.

Walmart will retain a 42% stake in the newly merged company following the deal, with the combined group led by Mike Coupe, chief executive of Sainsbury’s.

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STATE OF THE NATION: CORPORATE

Start Licensing adds Claude to roster Start Licensing has bolstered its line-up with the addition of new animation series, Claude.

Based on the successful series of books by Alex T Smith – published

by Hachette Children’s Group – Claude is aimed at the upper end of the preschool market.

The new TV series – devised by the BAFTA winning Sixteen South – is due to air on Disney Junior in the UK from June and features a distinctive 2D handdrawn style to bring the original books to life.

Claude has already launched on Disney Junior in Australia and will broadcast in all countries throughout Europe, Middle East and Africa later this year.

Over 400,000 copies of Claude picture storybooks have been sold in the UK, Australia and New Zealand, and the series has been published in 16 languages worldwide. There have been 12 titles in the series so far.

Hachette Children’s Group is planning a series of TV tie-in books, publishing worldwide. The range will include sticker activity and story books, publishing from spring 2019.

Above: The new Claude TV series has been devised by Sixteen South.

First US Roald Dahl licensees named

Beano ready to mark 80 years

The first nine licensees which will lead the Roald Dahl licensing programme in the US have been confirmed.

Brand Activation Consulting is working with The Roald Dahl Story Company in the territory, with principal Bob Traub saying the company has had “a great reception” Above: Roald Dahl licensing is off to a to the brands. flyer in the US. The products – featuring Roald Dahl’s globally bestselling stories Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach and The BFG, in combination with Sir Quentin Blake’s iconic illustrations – will begin hitting US and Canadian shelves in the autumn.

New partners include Out of Print (apparel, accessories, gifting); Litographs (adult apparel, accessories, posters); Storiarts (book scarves, accessories, newborn blankets and caps); Culturenik (prints and gifting); Winning Moves (Top Trumps); Fiesta Crafts (hand and finger puppets); Riley Blake (fabric and fabric kits); Storybook Cosmetics (beauty); and Rococo Chocolates (confectionery).

A number of new licensee deals have been secured by Beano Studios ahead of the brand’s milestone 80th birthday this year.

The Westminster Mint is producing a range of collectable Ingots and medals, featuring the character artwork from Beano annual covers. The range is to be released in celebration of the Beano’s birthday and will be available to purchase from July onwards.

Above: TruffleShuffle Meanwhile, TruffleShuffle will has launched limited produce two limited edition t-shirts edition Beano t-shirts. using original illustrations designed

by Beano artist David Sutherland in 1970. These will be sold by the online retailer as an exclusive design range.

Koch Media has developed seasonal boxed gifting sets for the brand, consisting of mug, tankard and golf gift sets. The sets use original artwork and will be available throughout the year for special occasions across high street retailers from the autumn.

Finally, Art & Hue has developed limited edition ‘pop art’ style Beano and Bananaman ranges of unframed art prints.

Difuzed is new name for Bioworld Europe Bioworld Europe has confirmed its name change to Difuzed.

The change also sees the company move into a new head office just outside Amsterdam, as well as welcome a new senior team and approach.

After more than 20 years in business, the company took the decision to change the name to reflect the changes it was making to the business.

The new office also includes a state of the art warehouse – improving both the capacity of Difuzed’s stock offering to independents and online retailers, as well as the efficiency of its logistics and service times to wholesale stock clients.

Right: Difuzed also has a new head office just outside Amsterdam.

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STATE OF THE NATION: CORPORATE

Below: Gorjuss is performing well in a number of territories.

Inset: The University of Oxford has secured key international deals.

Oxford broadens horizons

Gorjuss growth Santoro Licensing has seen a 40% growth over the previous year for its Gorjuss brand in 2017.

While the brand is performing well in the premium UK market, it also continues to strengthen in Europe through distributors and 65 licensees, testified by the company receiving a Queen’s Award for International Trade recently. Notably, Gorjuss is now the top selling licence for girls in Spain.

“We have successfully started to increase our presence in Hamleys, Harrods, Selfridges and independents, and have been delighted with the launch by Cooneen of its Gorjuss nightwear and underwear range exclusively for M&Co,” said Jo Campbell, general manager at Santoro. “We have seen continued growth in the arts and crafts sectors working with Sequin Art, Bothy, Jumbo Puzzles and Docrafts. We aimed to increase the brand’s profile across the whole of the UK and there’s been significant growth in sales in our

Oxford Limited has been busy securing international deals to bolster the University of Oxford licensing programme.

First up, Tokyo-based licensing agency Ingram will look to identify and develop opportunities for the Oxford brand in Japan. The primary focus of the Japanese licensing programme will be apparel and fashion accessories, as well as home, gifting and stationery.

Meanwhile, fashion apparel partner BrandDesign S.A has come on board in Europe. The three-year deal – managed by Oxford’s agent for the UK and Europe, Global Icons – will focus on t-shirts, sweatshirts and accessories.

Finally, The Onoto Pen Company will create a collection of luxury writing instruments, initially focusing on four pens: the Magna Classic Oxford Blue; Magna Classic Oxford Pinstripe; the slimmer Excel Oxford Blue; University of Oxford limited edition Sterling Silver Pens, based on the most popular Onoto designs.

Bath store and fantastic results at our pop-up store in the Victoria Gate shopping centre in Leeds. We aim to replicate the major campaigns from the Spanish grocery channels here in the UK.” Over 20 new contracts have been signed since BLE last year including the first FMCG contracts for corn snacks, bottled water, plasters and a major TV advertised product launch from Planeta DeAgostini.

Historic agreements

Above: Harney & Sons has been a HRP licensee since 2005.

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Historic Royal Palaces is looking to build on its progress as an international brand over the next year.

The brand’s current successes in international markets include GP & J Baker for its furnishing fabrics, while Hobbs opened its first standalone store in Greenwich Connecticut with The Palace Collection, which has already achieved success across key Bloomingdales stores and online.

Meanwhile, family-run US company Harney & Sons has been an HRP licensee since 2005 and currently has 14 items in its range of delicately flavoured teas which have been inspired by the palaces. HRP is currently working with the company on new product development ideas for 2019/20.

HRP is also pitching the new theme of the 200th anniversary of the birth of Queen Victoria to current and prospective partners. It is working with Yale University Press on an exhibition and accompanying book at Kensington Palace for 2019, identifying with exhibition curators personal items of Victoria’s which could inspire product development.

On top of this, Hobbs is also working on Queen Victoria-inspired designs for spring 2019 and HRP is in discussions with various other licensing partners.

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STATE OF THE NATION: BRANDS

A trio in royal ascent

Bits and Pixels adds Bungie

Santoro Licensing, gifting company Wild & Wolf and luxury chocolate and confectionery brand Monty Bojangles have all been recognised with The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade 2018.

The awards recognise and celebrate business excellence across the UK, with the international trade accolade showing the companies have demonstrated international growth in overseas earnings and commercial success with their sectors.

“We’ve experienced tremendous growth in our international trade, particularly in the last three years,” said Paul Taylor, ceo at Wild & Wolf. “Once a predominantly UK driven business, by the end of 2018 two thirds of our business will be outside of the UK, with the US being our single biggest market.”

Bungie has appointed Bits and Pixels as its licensing agency for EMEA. The video game specialist will represent the first person action game Destiny, published by Activision.

Sandra Arcan, co-director of Bits and Pixels, said: “The combination of thrilling gameplay, an expansive and cinematic world featuring a compelling narrative and cast of characters, and some of the most stunning visual design you could wish to find, are just some of the elements we’ll be looking to showcase to prospective partners.”

Bungie’s Katie Lennox added: “We’re looking forward to partnering with Bits and Pixels on new opportunities to expand the Destiny franchise.”

Elmer hits the big 3-0 Fashion UK opens German office As part of the licensee’s aim to have a larger presence in Europe, Fashion UK has opened an office in Germany.

The aim is to increase the level of service and speed to its customers, with the new office being headed up by md Frank Sandloebes, formerly global sourcing manager and product manager for boys’ tops at C&A. Gurdev Mattu, md of Fashion UK, said: “Fashion UK is going from strength to strength. I have every faith in Frank and his wealth of knowledge and experience to lead Fashion UK Germany into the European spotlight. This is only the first step in a wider plan for Fashion UK and I am excited to see how we will grow.”

Right: Fashion UK’s Frank Sandloebes.

Andersen Press has revealed the 30th anniversary plans for the Elmer brand.

The brand marks the milestone in 2019, with Andersen Press working with Penguin Ventures (global licensing agent) and Metrostar (apparel and bedding) to ensure high visibility across categories.

Key activity in 2019 will include special anniversary editions of books, clothing and consumer products, while the biggest ever Elmer Day will take place on May 25, 2019. A new book – Elmer’s Birthday – has been written and illustrated by David McKee, while the first major retrospective of David’s original art – Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee – will be hosted.

The family art trails in association with Wild in Art, Elmer’s Big Art Parade, will also take place in Tyne and Wear, Suffolk and Plymouth.

Metrostar has signed Lifemarque for backpacks and harnesses, with further signings to be revealed, and Penguin Ventures is currently in discussions with toy and game partners, as well as working with existing licensees and looking at new opportunities.

Above: Elmer marks three decades in 2019.

Born Licensing expands presence Busy Born Licensing is marking a big 12 months which saw it move into a new office in London’s Hammersmith, hire new staff and continue to build on the success of its campaigns with Moneysupermarket.

Naomi Smith has joined the company as licensing coordinator and executive assistant to owner and director, David Born. She joins following a 12-month internship at Mattel UK. The successful Epic Skeletor campaign was followed up with Epic Lift – which saw He-Man and Skeletor recreate the iconic final dance from Dirty Dancing – before the introduction of Epic Action Man earlier this year. In addition to all of this, Born Licensing also celebrated its first campaign in India, placing SpongeBob Squarepants in an ad campaign for Facebook.

David Born commented: “The advertising world is starting to embrace character licensing more and more. High profile campaigns like Moneysupermarket are being highly praised within the advertising community. The licensors that we work with are not only benefiting from the incremental revenue we are delivering directly from these deals through licensing fees, but they’re also benefiting from the huge brand awareness generated by the advertising campaigns which has a ripple effect throughout their other businesses.”

Right: David Born says the ad world is starting to embrace licensing more and more.

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STATE OF THE NATION: CORPORATE

The Snowman marks four decades A series of retailer partnerships and immersive family events are being planned by Penguin Ventures to celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Snowman.

The Royal Albert Hall will be a key London venue, where The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will perform the soundtrack while the animation is being screened. A Snowman live show will open at The Peacock in London from November 22 to January 6, before it moves to The Repertory Theatre in Birmingham.

On top of this, Michael Morpurgo will be writing a reimagining of the story by Raymond Briggs, which will be published under the Puffin imprint in October. The chapter book will feature the same timeless characters but bring them to a new and older audience.

JoJo Maman Bébé has been confirmed as the new destination for The Snowman for infant apparel, while – in terms of licensees – Boxine will launch a Snowman Tonie for its children’s audio system in Q4; King & McGaw will create limited edition prints of artwork from the original picture book; and Demand Media will launch bedtime gift boxes.

For the first time, The Snowman will have a dedicated presence at the Christmas in July consumer gifting festival, while Immediate Media will be featuring The Snowman prominently across its portfolio of festive crafting magazines.

Above: Retailer partnerships and family events are planned to mark the 40th anniversary.

Licensees soar in for Super Wings

Top Trumps hits 40

The first wave of UK licensees for Alpha Group’s preschool animation Super Wings have been revealed.

Brokered by Rockpool Licensing, licensees on board include Aykroyd and TDP for nightwear, underwear and swimwear; BM Fashions (Global Licensing and Fashion UK) for daywear; Roy Lowe & Sons for socks; Dreamtex for bedding and bathroom textiles; and MV Sports for wheeled toys and ride-ons.

Antoine Erligmann, vp media, TV and consumer products at Alpha Group, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Rockpool Licensing who have been able to bring on board renowned licensing partners in key categories over a short period of time.

“Our partnership, great performances with our UK TV broadcast partners and the support of our UK toy division, is taking the Super Wings brand to the next level.”

Top Trumps will be bringing back six of its most popular packs from the 1970s and 1980s in celebration of its 40th anniversary this year.

The packs include Horror, Fantasy and Crazy Cars, with a style guide of iconic imagery having been created for licensee use. In addition, consumers will also get the chance to vote for what retro packs they would like to see brought back next on a special Top Trumps retro website.

As well as classic themes, Top Trumps also features a number of licensed properties including Disney, Harry Potter and Star Wars.

Boat Rocker acquires Fremantle Boat Rocker Media has acquired FremantleMedia’s Kids & Family entertainment division – a deal which marks ‘a major step’ in the company’s expansion on the international stage.

The division will be integrated into Boat Rocker Media’s global distribution arm, Boat Rocker Rights, expanding its scale and capabilities, particularly in European and Asian markets.

Boat Rocker Rights is overseen by president, Jon Rutherford.

FremantleMedia Kids & Family has a portfolio of over 45 brands consisting of more than 150 series and 1,600 half hours of programming for ages preschool up to tweens/teens.

FremantleMedia brands, such as Danger Mouse and Bitz & Bob will continue to be developed under the co-production agreement with the BBC, as well as other global partners.

Above: Super Wings is taking flight with licensees.

Nimbus Nine ready for lift off Tina-Louise Foster has opened the doors of her new consultancy, teaming up with Vickie O’Malley at Rockpool Licensing as her first client.

Tina-Louise was most recently senior director of international licensing EMEA at MGA. Her new consultancy – Nimbus Nine – will look to offer her expertise and network to support her clients.

Tina-Louise has also previously held roles at DreamWorks – as head of EMEA licensing and promotions – as well as global brands director at Celador.

She said: “Nimbus Nine Consulting is all about working with positive ethics, great people on great projects to achieve rewarding results. I’m chuffed to be partnering with Vickie and we’re going to have great fun doing it.”

Left: Tina-Louise is working with Vickie O’Malley as her first client.

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STATE OF THE NATION: CORPORATE Below: Pip and Posy has sales of over a million copies worldwide.

Magic deal for Nosy Crow

Magic Light Pictures is to turn its hand to its first animation for preschoolers – having optioned the rights to Nosy Crow’s successful Pip and Posy picture book series.

The popular series is illustrated

by Axel Scheffler and to date there are seven titles, with sales of over one million copies having been achieved worldwide.

Magic Light Pictures has, of course, enjoyed great success with its adaptations of other books which have been illustrated by Axel – those written by Julia Donaldson.

These have all scored huge ratings as festive specials on BBC One since Christmas 2009.

They include the Oscar-nominated The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom, as well as Stick Man and The Highway Rat. The latter attracted almost eight million viewers on its Christmas Day broadcast in 2017.

Pip and Posy captures the emotional highs and lows of preschool life and shows that we all can be there to help one another through.

FatFace adds partners The brand extension programme for lifestyle brand and retailer FatFace has got off to a strong start – with four new partners signed up in the UK. The signings follow on from an apparel collaboration with Natural History Museum which includes six t-shirts covering dinosaurs, butterflies and sea creatures.

A three-year deal has been secured with Ashley Wilde for Above: The collab with the the home category. The range of Natural History Museum home furnishings will include adult includes six t-shirts. and children’s bedding, throws, cushions and curtains.

Reinforcing its love for being British and its desire to support local and family run businesses where possible, FatFace has welcomed on board Christina May in a two-year deal for natural soap and candles. Proporta will be launching a line of tech and phone cases, having secured a three-year deal.

FatFace will continue its relationship this year with Peter Black on men’s Christmas gifting. For the first time, it will be adding a range of kids’ toiletries.

Slimefest returns to Blackpool Nickelodeon star JoJo Siwa and Diversity will be returning to the company’s Slimefest event in Blackpool later this year.

Held in partnership with VisitBlackpool from October 20-22 at The Arena, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Slimefest is a slime-filled music show which attracted over 12,000 people to six sold out shows last year.

2017 also saw JoJo make her UK performance debut, while Diversity showcased some of their gravity-defying dance routines.

They will again be joined by hosts Jordan Banjo and Perri Kiely, with the additional line-up being announced in the run-up to this year’s six performances.

Right: JoJo Siwa returns to Slimefest this year.

Quiz masters The popular Northern Light Fund Quiz Night – which was held in March at Hotel Football in Manchester - raised over £12,000 for the industry charity.

The total was boosted by a successful auction – ably hosted by David Aykroyd – which included signed football shirts from Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and England, as well as tickets to see the semi-final of The Voice, and raised an extra £2,000.

The traditional raffle further bolstered the funds going to the charity.

The team from Aykroyd & Sons came away victorious – with a total of 89 points. Meanwhile, at the other end of the table, the team from TDP – 60% of the time, we win every time – had the dubious honour of claiming the ‘big pants’ with a score of 58.

Meanwhile, The Light Fund’s first comedy night was held in April at the Hoopla Improv Comedy Club at London Bridge and raised some £1,500.

Above: The team from Aykroyd & Sons emerged victorious at the quiz night.

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STATISTICAL EVIDENCE

Brand Matters Above: Marvel’s Black Panther kick started the 2018 movie blockbuster season.

Toys R Us was a key player when it came to licensed film-related toys, so its closure inevitably raises numerous questions for our industry – not least which retailers will step up into the space. But, as NPD points out, there is much to look forward to movie-wise in 2018 and this should bring some healthy returns.

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are high for this year’s big superhero mash-up. he challenges facing the licensing business Another big franchise returning to the cinema is continue in 2018 with many retailers Jurassic World from Universal with Jurassic World: struggling early on this year. None more so Fallen Kingdom out in June. With Mattel producing than Toys R Us, which at the time of writing, is midthe toys, these dinosaurs are roaring back to life and way through closing all UK stores. This is a big hoping to beat the £8m of product sold in 2015. change to the retailer side of the UK licensing Both of these movie licences are most likely to business, with Toy R Us often seen as a showcase impact the action figures and building sets areas of for key licences especially for big movie releases, the toy market which have higher than the total toy which often dominated its feature wall. market average of 26% of sales through licences.

The big question is where will consumers shop for However, it’s not just movies that we need to look their film-related toys now? There are many retailers out for in 2018. With a couple of months still to go that look set to pick up some of these licensed before the Russia 2018 World Cup, the Panini purchases including toy specialists like Smyths and World Cup Stickers have already jumped up the The Entertainer, Argos and not to mention the best sellers lists for toys in the last couple of weeks grocers. However, with 40% of all licensing of March, despite average price of purchases already made online just 80p per pack. In addition, one (Source: NPD License Tracker Statistic snapshot of the fastest licences in toys YTD 2017), it may be that the licensing • £8 million – amount of Jurassic World toy product sold in 2015.

March 2018 is PJ Masks which has world now has to put even more • Action figures is the most heavily grown over the last year to be focus on the digital sales world, as licensed toy category with three one of the largest preschool well as digital marketing. quarters of sales through licences.

• 40% - amount of licensed licences alongside PAW Patrol, It’s not all doom and gloom in purchases already made online Peppa Pig and Thomas & Friends. licensing in 2018 though. Black (Source: NPD License Tracker 2017).

Movies will remain a key arena Panther was a big hit at the cinema • £31 million – amount of Avengers for the licensed market, as strong for Marvel early in the year, and toy products sold thanks to the cinema attendance can attest. while the consumer products were boost from Age of Ultron in 2015.

• £633,000 - sales of Black However, with the retailer world a bit of a missed opportunity, with Panther toys (YTD March 2018, changing and consumers just £633k sales of toys (YTD Source: NPD POS Retail Tracking).

• 80p – average price of a changing how they consume March 2018, Source: NPD POS pack of Panini’s World Cup content at home, the licensing Retail Tracking), it marks the start stickers, already a top seller in world needs to look for new of 2018 movie blockbuster season. the toy category. opportunities - both with With a less concentrated film established characters and franchises and for new release schedule in 2018 compared to last year, types of licences - for driving these cinema visits there’s opportunity for the films to breathe a little in and streaming experiences into consumer product the consumer product space. Next to market is purchases or lifestyle choices.

Avengers: Infinity War in April, the culmination of many individual film characters and one shared NPD’s UK License Tracker aims to equip licensors, manufacturers and retailers to uncover opportunities and grow their share of the licensed universe. Age of Ultron in 2015 lead to Avengers product marketplace. You can find out more by contacting NPD on 020 8237 1300. selling £31m of toy products alone so expectations LICENSING SOURCE BOOK EUROPE 2018

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People Matters

Movers Shakers

The latest appointments, promotions and retirements in our illustrious industry. l Sanrio has expanded its EMEA licensing team with the appointment of a new international licensing manager, Margherita Vecchio, who joins from Italian TV channel Boing. She Margherita Vecchio. will be based in the Milan office and work across selected EMEA territories and projects. l Video game specialist Bethesda has appointed David Evans as senior European licensing and merchandise manager. David – who previously spent five years developing SIEE’s licensing David Evans programme – will manage retail development programmes, the expansion of Bethesda’s European online merchandise store and licensing opportunities across Europe, Russia, Australasia and the Middle East for gaming brands including Fallout and The Elder Scrolls among others. l National Geographic Partners is expanding its focus on its UK licensing business with the appointment of Helena Mansell-Stopher.

Joining from Bulldog Licensing, Helena steps into the role of director of consumer products UK.

Helena Mansell-Stopher

l TDP Textiles has promoted Dean Greasley and has also welcomed Jo Thomas to the company.

Dean has been invited to join the licensee’s main

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board in the position of director of licensing. Dean joined the company in April 2016 and will continue with his responsibilities of managing the licensed portfolio, also adding all marketing and digital functions within the business.Meanwhile, Jo Thomas has joined as senior account manager for daywear.

She was previously licensing manager at Cooneen. l Patrick Bailey has been appointed to the position of chief operating officer at Global Licensing and Fashion UK. Patrick joins the licensed apparel group – which merged together last year – from Blues Clothing, where he spent nine years as licensing director.

Prior to that, he was international licensing director at Hasbro. l Endemol Shine Group has announced a series of promotions and a restructure of senior management within its brand licensing division.

Endemol Shine Gaming’s md, Owain Walbyoff, will add the Owain Walbyoff group’s licensing division to his remit in his new broader role as md, gaming, licensing and merchandising. He takes over from Frances Adams who has joined Endemol Shine’s Creative Networks division as group director, brand strategy.

Reporting into Owain will be Jane Smith who has been promoted to director, brand licensing and strategy. Jane’s previous roles include commercial brand executive at Endemol Shine Group, Jane Smith chief commercial and creative director at Entertainment Rights and executive director of the twofour54 creative initiative.

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l Nancy Twynam, formerly marketing director for consumer products for the UK region of BBC Worldwide, has been appointed marketing director across all BBC Worldwide UK. Nancy will be responsible for the brand and marketing strategy for BBC Worldwide’s TV sales, consumer products, publishing and live events businesses. She will report to Andrew Moultrie, UK director of consumer products, publishing and web properties.

Nancy Twynam

l Maura Regan will take over the role of president of LIMA from July 1 from Charles Riotto who is retiring after a 21-year career with LIMA. Currently executive vice president, Maura will leverage her vast licensing knowledge and international expertise to further expand LIMA’s services and offerings to the global industry in her new role.

Charles commented: “Maura is a respected and influential member of the global licensing community who, has already Maura Regan brought an incredible strategic vision to our global interests.”

Maura joined LIMA in 2016 following a 17-year career with Sesame Workshop. l After 20 years at the company, Aykroyd & Sons’ Paul Williamson has retired from his role as sales and marketing director at the apparel licensee.

Paul has performed a major role in the growth and development of Aykroyd’s business and was instrumental in developing the overseas sourcing department following the closure of UK manufacturing.

A statement from the team at Aykroyd’s said: “Paul’s reputation and standing within the trade are exemplary and he will be sorely missed by all associated with him in Paul Williamson Aykroyd’s, in licensing and in retail. We must also add that his full recovery from a critical illness further demonstrated his amazing strength of character and determination which has embodied his whole career at Aykroyd’s and his overall attitude to life and work.”

l Premium touring specialist Collette Travel has revealed its ambitions in the partnerships space, hiring Stephen Mills to help support its growth plans in the UK. Stephen takes on the newly created role of head Stephen Mills of UK partnerships. His remit is to broaden the horizons of Collette’s current partnership base to open up new opportunities to global brands offering the possibility of exclusive premium global tours and experiences. l Jonathan Symington, former vice president and general manager of global entertainment licensing at Disney Consumer Products has launched The Lantic Group, a business consultancy Jonathan Symington specialising in building brands through product launches, licensing strategies and international expansion. l Nelvana has made some management and structural changes to its core team, welcoming a new addition and promoting top talent to key positions under the leadership of Scott Dyer, president, Nelvana, and Pam Westman, head of Nelvana Enterprises.

Mellany Masterson rejoins Nelvana as vp sales, consumer products and international. Mellany will manage Nelvana’s consumer products business globally, as well as content sales outside the Americas and Europe.

Lily Yan becomes head of brands for Nelvana.

With almost two decades of experience working at Nelvana, Lily will manage brands on a global basis, including content and distribution strategy and marketing as well as brand partnerships with licensors and rights holders.

Madeline Ferguson is promoted to senior international sales manager. She will develop and execute strategies that will maximise content and consumer products sales in Asia, Australia and the UK. Jessica Brinder also steps up into the new role of senior content distribution manager, domestic and digital, managing sales of Nelvana’s content into the on-demand space.

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DOWNES & OUT

Below: Licensors and agents need to adapt their businesses to reflect the market, says Ian.

Trading up There’s no denying it’s tough on the high street at the moment. And in challenging times, licensing needs to adapt its thinking and become more customer-focused and bespoke in its approach, explains Start Licensing’s Ian Downes.

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to change the nature of our representation here is no question that the last few months portfolio - for example we have added of retail trading have been tough. representation such as Nadiya Hussain as we feel a Retail news across the board has been 'personality brand' will potentially unlock some dominated by store closures, retailers going out new distribution and retail channels for us. We have of business and news of others seeking new also increased our focus on financing. Licensing depends on retail developing artwork, and, as such, when the retail sector faces concepts and style guides challenges so does the licensing sector. that are more consumer Although it is worth reflecting that bad centric and retailer ready. news for one retailer can bring new In challenging times my opportunities for others. As sad as it is view is that licensing needs to see the likes of Toys R Us and Maplin to be more customercease trading, more agile retailers such focused and bespoke in as The Entertainer and Smyths will be Inset: Primus has an appetite to build new approach. We have also eyeing up opportunities to fill the gap. distribution with its Shaun the Sheep lines. stretched this thinking into Indeed in a period of retail gloom, The NPD. One of our new Entertainer provided a bright spot with licensees and products for Shaun the Sheep is a news of an upgrade to its Westfield outlet and company called Primus which has created very plans for around 15 other new shops this year. cute garden sculptures. It is new to licensing, but From my point of view, we have seen this retail a company that brings ready made distribution storm brewing for a while and in our small way in garden centres and an appetite to build have tried to prepare for it. In part we have looked new distribution.

A good example of this was that the Shaun the Sheep products featured on a QVC Gardening Special - teleshopping is an example of retailing away from the high street.

Related to this is thinking more thoroughly about how a licensed property can be used and is going to be used. There is an argument that licensing should research the market a little more. Moving quickly and being reactive is a smart way of doing business, but so is a more planned strategic approach with a commitment to market research.

In simple terms, creating products that the market Inset: Start Licensing feels like personality wants or needs. A good example of this is brands – such as Nadiya Nickelodeon and Sambro's launch of a Hussain – can unlock new distribution and Nickelodeon-branded Slime range. This is a toy retail channels.

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DOWNES & OUT

category on trend it seems and I am guessing Nickelodeon spotted the trend not least as it is in touch with its audience.

In tough trading times it is tempting to trade down and offer deals. Licensing is not immune to this and Inset: Halifax has used a number of well-known I suspect that there has characters in its TV including Top Cat. been quite a bit of royalty campaigns Below: Aardman’s model making class can be used trading going on lately. I by businesses as a team can understand this, but I building exercise. think this is also the moment to hold firm and trade on the basis that a successful licence has an in-built value and it can be a business driver. Retailers can and should look to licensing as part of a toolkit to drive up sales.

Connected to this, I think licensing has some great opportunities at the moment for new business. A couple of examples include on-pack promotions where brands can use licensing to add a competitive advantage and point of difference on shelf. There has also been an upturn in the use of wellknown brands in TV advertising - Action Man being the latest creative theme for Moneysupermarket.com, while Halifax continues to feature characters like Top Cat in its advertising.

Another area which offers great potential for licensing is live events, experiential and exhibitions.

There are a range of contrasting examples of licensing and brands featuring successfully in this sector - for example The Design Museum in London is currently hosting an exhibition about the Ferrari cars.

Museums and visitor attractions are in a competitive space and a well chosen branded activity can make a big difference to visitor numbers. Rights owners are recognising this and are investing in the category. Aardman has a dedicated team looking at live events and experiential opportunities. It has tailor made products to fit various parts of the market including a model making class that can be used by museums but can also be adapted for

businesses to use as a team building exercise. It has also recently extended its partnership with the Land's End visitor attraction to embrace all Aardman properties.

Originally focused on Shaun the Sheep, Land's End now offers consumers the opportunity to interact with a range of Aardman characters. This is a good example of nurturing business over the long-term rather than looking at shortterm solutions.

In a challenging environment, it is important that licensors and agents adapt their businesses to reflect the market and to create focused business opportunities that are customer-centric acknowledging that those customers include licensees, retailers and consumers. Times are tough, but let's not make them tougher by undervaluing what we are offering the market and the potential that a well chosen licence can offer a business.

A Special partnership

Below: Horace Panter has created a collection of Beano pop art paintings.

Last year I approached artist Horace Panter about Beano's 80th anniversary which is celebrated this year.

Horace is a well-known and successful 'pop' artist. I was familiar with his work and thought there was a good fit with Beano, thinking of style, subject matter and colourways.

The end result is a fantastic collection of Beano 'pop art' paintings that Horace has lovingly crafted.

He has captured the Beano spirit really well. The works go on show shortly and will tour the country. The original artworks will be available for purchase as will a range of prints.

Art 'collabs' and collections are another area of potential growth for licensing. Carefully selected partnerships create consumer interest and are commercially rewarding. Like many things in licensing, a lot relies on the credibility of a partnership coupled with original thinking. I think the sort of partnership achieved between Horace Panter and Beano is a good example of the potential that exists and striking the right balance.

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For more information contact Vickie O’Malley vickie@rockpool-licensing.co.uk

Children’s Advertising Review Unit

Safe Harbor-Certified

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licensee Feedback

Changing outlooks Tim Rudd-Clarke, licensing director, Gemma International “We think the future of licensed product will always be sound and we are confident, but subject to the ebb and flow of certain pressures.

UK retail is in a state of evolution. We have seen the sad demise of Toys R Us and other retailers are also under pressure from online retailers who don’t have the same overhead base, plus benefit from highly efficient and sophisticated distribution systems. As licensees we need to adapt and make sure we react quickly to new trends.

As for the high street and traditional retail, there are a lot of empty units which need to be occupied and landlords will have to look at more realistic rents. Business rates need to reduce to allow traditional retail to flourish.”

Above: Gemma’s Tim says UK retail is in a state of evolution.

David Wootliff, commercial director, Pyramid International “With demise of Toys R Us, the closure of Grainger Games and the challenges faced by other traditional bricks and mortar retailers, I have to say that I’m concerned for the future of conventional shopping – that act of walking around, browsing and impulse purchases of licensed goods, especially as a family experience.

I believe distribution will consolidate further. I think discounters will continue to grow and become more key to licensed products and being points of distribution to our consumers.

Left: Pyramid’s David is concerned for the future of conventional shopping.

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The retail landscape is ever-changing and that has probably never been more evident than now, and for licensees this presents a whole new set of challenges.

LSB asks some key names how they see the future of licensed product at retail and where potential further growth could come from.

The strength of Amazon will continue and weave further into our lives.

I’m very impressed that fades and crazes still happen and show retailers and consumers that it’s not all about the appeal of the screen, whether it be big or small.”

Above: Video games retailer Grainger Games closed all of its 67 stores earlier this year.

Nikki Samuels, director, Sambro “I’m very confident that licensed products in all categories have a great future if there is true innovation and investment in the ranges. The biggest challenges are own brand and trendled ranges taking up the retail shelves.

There’s lots of growth to come from new technology with fresh innovation. Selling into new territories and markets with existing ranges is a quick win. Social media and online is growing every year as the high street is shrinking. I also believe that there is lots of growth to come from the grocers, cross category retailers and specialists as their competition goes out of business.”

Above: There’s growth to come from new technology, says Sambro’s Nikki.

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licensee Feedback

Kat Whittingham, trade marketing manager, Signature Gifts “The licensing world has opened more doors for Signature Gifts than we ever imagined it would.

The prestige of a licence trusting your company with their brand is Above: Licensing something we take great pride in. has opened With our books it can be significant doors for Signature Gifts, challenging to keep the says Kat. authenticity of these brands and characters, while also providing a personalised element, which is our main USP. We combat this by offering numerous ways to personalise books, which licensors can choose from and therefore be in control of what is done with their brand.

With new licensors Above: Personalisation is now a approaching us after major trend within licensing. seeing what we can do, we see a large part of our future being devoted to bringing further licences into the personalised books world.”

Rachel Wyatt, brand and licensing director, Kinnerton “I think there has been a monumental shift at retail and with consumers when it comes to licensed merchandise. The landscape is changing, has changed and will continue to change – consumers shop differently, they shop more frequently in a wider range of bricks and mortar retailers, but also much more online.

Retail is tough and if you are a buyer responsible for a sizeable P&L you want to buy safe; you want to guarantee the range you put on shelf will be shopped and sell through.

Confectionery is an impulse category so we rely on traditional retail – but it is just that, traditional.

We are a business founded on licensing… our position is optimistically nervous. We look at our strategy annually, review and adapt, and are always looking to the future, but there is an obvious change that both licensors and licensees need to look realistically at and plan to adapt.”

Above: Confectionery relies on traditional retail, says Rachel.

Kim Bown, director, Misirli “Licensed product will always be with us but the space we have to secure it in currently is still quite volatile. Retailing in all its forms is changing very quickly and I Above: Licensed product will always am not sure how this will pan out be with us, says Kim. over the next two to five years, but it will definitely be a very different landscape.

Online presence is a big driver and more players will join the digital space, but I am not sure how the current way of working we have in the UK licensing industry will support this going forward.

Quick response, much lower volumes, prices being under constant pressure and a crowded licensed character offer will require a shake up in attitude and willingness between licensor, licensee, manufacturers and retailers.”

Above: Toys R Us has been a high profile retail casualty this year.

Dan Grant, licensing director, Danilo “I think it’s about having the right balance of bricks and mortar retail and online, while at the same time being flexible and dynamic to the change that is happening in shopping habits.

For the greeting cards market, consumers will want to go into shops and browse the fixture for the right card and wrap for the recipient. Our category also sits at a relatively low price point, so selling online is not that effective – unless you are selling personalised cards where online retail is ideal.

There is still a massive opportunity for licensed products at retail. New sectors such as gaming and lifestyle brands appear to be gaining more buy in at retail versus the traditional character licences, so it is really a case of being reactive to change and gearing up your licensed product offer to current trends.”

Above: Danilo’s Dan believes it’s about the right balance of bricks and mortar and online.

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licensee Feedback

Katie Price, licensing director, Hachette Children’s Group “We are focusing a lot on our top selling classic publishing brands which have the potential to extend into merchandise, film and TV. These heritage brands have a great story to tell and we know that trusted brands which start out as books do well.

Partnership and promotional opportunities can really help to elevate your brand awareness and this is a new area of focus and growth for us.”

Above: Classic and heritage brands have a great story to tell, says Katie.

Rob Broadhurst, sales and licensing, Aykroyd & Sons “I would say we are actually confident. For all the doom and gloom out there at the moment and talk of retail apocalypse, we are still seeing that consumers desire licensed product, it’s just the channels they use to purchase are changing and at a frantic pace.

Aykroyd & Sons celebrates its centenary year in 2018 and has weathered countless such evolutions before. The most important thing is to stay agile enough to be able to move with or ahead of the market. Right now, it’s paramount that licensees, licensors and retailers are plugged into consumer trends.”

Above: Aykroyd’s Rob says it’s important to stay agile.

Martin Lowe, md, Roy Lowe & Sons “In today’s climate, we all need to ensure that we lead the goose that lays the golden egg to market and not the slaughter house. As more retailers hit financial issues and bankruptcy, the ones left are all looking for maximum margin.

This is a key time for licensors to drive licensing sales forward, not make it easier for retailers to fill their space with generic product on higher margins with a lower selling value. This seems the biggest challenge for licensing as a category [to ensure it] keeps retail space and does not lose out to generic product with its easier retail margin.”

Left: Licensed product can’t lose retail space to generic product, says Martin.

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Tim Kilby, brand director, Character World “2018 is all about being nimble on your feet in the ever-changing retail landscape. Some retailers are gone, some are growing rapidly and others need help.

One size doesn’t fit all and we make sure we offer retailers a tailored package that perfectly meets their customers’ needs. For Character World, we see all this as an exciting opportunity for growth and licensed brands are key to retail success in our category.

Wage growth exceeding inflation is great, but interest rate rises counteracts any gains, so retail prices are still a huge factor in consumer decision-making. Digital is exploding and retailers are prioritising this channel, and rightly so with footfall declines in the high street.”

Above: You have to be nimble on your feet, says Tim Kilby.

Sarah Salmon, sales and licensing manager, Cooneen “Going into 2019 I feel optimistic that with some great movies such as The LEGO Movie sequel, Toy Story 4 and Frozen 2 coming out, that will give licensed product some Above: Online will show further growth momentum at retail and create a in 2019, says Sarah. real buzz.

The launch of Nella the Princess Knight, Rusty Rivets and Moon and Me I am sure will help to drive preschool sales into 2019/2020. Space at retail and a shrinking high street are a cause for concern, but online I think will show further growth into 2019.”

Below: Movies such as Toy Story 4 will help give licensed products further momentum at retail.

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Ruth Posey, head of sales, Burgon & Ball “Retail in 2018 is undoubtedly facing its challenges, with both the unusually severe weather and also the effects of Above: Traditional consumers’ ever changing garden centres are spending habits. growing for Burgon & Ball, says Ruth.

Conversely though, periods of reduced shopper confidence tend to see familiar brands and licensed names really coming to the fore. Shoppers tend to stick to trusted names, so we are continuing to see a keen enthusiasm for licensed product ranges.

In terms of potential growth areas, we continue to see growth through our core area of traditional garden centres. We’re also seeing an ever-increasing presence in selected department stores and gift shops. Online sales can really extend a retailer’s reach to access new customers, but it’s imperative that the brand values of the licensed range are protected as keenly online as they are in the physical world.”

Right: Lifestyle brands such as the RHS are trusted names to consumers.

Laura Clowes, licensing manager, Fashion UK “The demand for licensed product is certainly still alive for us. It’s a really interesting time as we have a lot of interest in working on new and different properties in the boys area, breaking away from the ‘safe buys’.

Girls properties seem to be a little more challenging; there’s lots of newness emerging in the market which brings around new and fresh opportunities but they seem to carry less longevity – being flexible to react to these opportunities is key.

Maintaining product design and detail to a high standard across the board and remaining flexible enough to service the online market is going to be essential to long-term growth in our product category.”

Above: Demand for licensed product is certainly alive at Fashion UK, says Laura.

Michelle Dalziel, licensing manager, HTI Group “I’m sure most can agree there is an air of uncertainty around this subject in the industry right now, however I think it’s important to remember licensing isn’t going away. The opportunities are becoming more niche in this ever changing fast moving landscape.

There is no avoiding that more than ever retailers are limited to the support they can give a licensed brand across the various categories. Buyers want the safe options in this current climate, so naturally are more selective on how they use their range space, with many opting for private label products.

As a licensee, it’s about ensuring we work with them to understand this and provide solutions that help them maximise on their limited range space.”

Above: Buyers want safe options in this current climate, says HTI’s Michelle.

Anthony Duckworth, md, Dreamtex “New platforms of distribution are proving very successful.

Internet retailers and traditional retailers with strong internet distribution are performing well.

Above: Dreamtex’s It is far stronger to have licensed Anthony says new distribution platforms designs feature on their web are proving successful. pages and, therefore, we are able to reach a wider customer base as there are less restrictions on the amount of designs that can be offered.

There is growth potential out there, by targeting new creative customers with specific product that suits their market and customer base.”

Alex Ryan, marketing manager, Paladone “Overall, we are very optimistic about the future of licensed products at retail. In the UK, the rise of TV ‘on demand’ has breathed life into older licences and created fan bases for new licences across many genres. This allows licensees like Paladone to pick from a wealth of opportunities, all with their own unique set of high engaged followers.”

Above: Paladone’s Alex says TV on demand has breathed life into older licences.

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ANIMATED SERIES PREMIERES JUNE 1

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Based on 2017’s Most Downloaded Mobile Game, New Series Brings Fan-Favorite Characters To Life SUBSURF Licensing Program Seeks Partners Echoing Brand’s Street-Style Authenticity

of life as tweens. Together, these friends explore their magical city on skateboards and discover an amazing mystery that will introduce technology and change their lives forever.

Known for their World Tour adventures, the fanfavorite characters from the top-charting mobile game Subway Surfers discover new technology that will change their lives forever, when the short animated series Subway Surfers debuts June 1.

The animated series, the mobile game, and the SUBSURF merchandising program all share a common thread - Subway Surfers resonates as the original Street Art brand. This style of art whether it be graffiti, stencils, prints and murals, large-scale paintings and projects of artistic collaboration, among others - is very much part of the brand and represented in all aspects. SYBO Games is delivering fans the rich content, cool consumer products and authentic experiences they desire.

The 10 x 4-minute episodic series from SYBO Games, scripted by Brent Friedman (Star Wars Rebels, Star Wars: The Clone Wars) and produced by Daytime Emmy award-winning producer Sander Schwartz (The Batman, Justice League, Scooby Doo, Teen Titans), is based on the chart-topping mobile game franchise Subway Surfers.

Five years after its mobile game launch, Subway Surfers continues to rock the charts. In 2017, Subway Surfers ranked as the most downloaded game around the world. Earlier this year, Subway Surfers became the first game to pass one billion downloads in Google Play’s store.

“We’re eager to connect with partners that want to deliver the street smart, edgy youth culture, skate music and dance influence that Subway Surfers is about,” said Naz Amarchi-Cuevas, Head of Licensing at SYBO Games. “In addition, we’re also looking for Direct-to-Retail opportunities for specific categories, as well as Licensing Agents who have interest in the digital to physical space.”

In the series, available on SYBO’s YouTube channel. audiences meet four best friends as they navigate the exuberant joys and ironically-epic dilemmas

Interested to learn more?

To meet during Licensing Show, please email naz@sybogames.com

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TREND: ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Inset: National Geographic is looking to align its CP business with some of its core initiatives, such as the issues around marine plastics.

With the public more aware than ever of the delicate balance of our planet and environmental issues thanks to shows such as the BBC’s Blue Planet, the licensing industry is looking at how it can play its part. With newer, more sustainable materials becoming available for manufacturers and pledges from key toy companies on reducing packaging waste, change is happening. LSB takes a look at how the licensing business is contributing to the conversation.

Going green s licensing matures, the business is finding time to consider in greater depth the many factors outside of the purely commercial that go to promote good practice,” says Kelvyn Gardner, md of LIMA UK. “For example, over the last ten years we have seen some fantastic work by LIMA members on nutrition and healthy eating, with significant quality improvements across many licensed food products.

“Sustainability and wider environmental issues are natural themes for licensing to address next.”

With consumers now much more aware of the damage that some items – in particular plastics, plastic bags and packaging – are doing to the environment, they are demanding that action is taken.

Within the greeting card sector for example, virtually all cards are printed on FSC board and companies are exploring sustainable cello bags (or even unwrapping them altogether), while UK Greetings has set up a dedicated Environmental Steering Group to investigate and pledge to greener solutions.

One company which has been closely involved with creating an ethical range is Brands with Influence through its work with Kate Humble.

HUMBLE is a range of non-polluting, sustainablysourced products using natural ingredients and recycled packaging. There are currently 11 skus that are being stocked in Waitrose, Booths, Whole Foods, Amazon and a range of independents.

Martin Lowde, md of Brands with Influence, tells LSB: “Forward thinking retailers like Waitrose

“A

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realised and related to the Above: Kate Humble (pictured with Dom ethos of the Wheeler and Martin Lowde from Brands with Influence) was heavily involved in the brand. As they development of the HUMBLE brand. try to push forward a sustainable agenda, products like HUMBLE were seen as really important.

“This year sees the introduction of a new range of skin care and beauty products under the HUMBLE brand to compliment the toiletries range all ready on sale. Another 11 products will be in retail this autumn. All with the same great product qualities and same environmental ethos.”

Martin believes that more environmentally-aware products will enter the licensing arena, too. He says: “It’s going to affect everything from product design to packaging. More and more consumers are looking to purchase products that are considered to be sustainably sourced and are recyclable. It makes great sense for the licensing industry to lead in this important area of change through thought leaders like Kate and brands like HUMBLE.” Meanwhile, in the licensed apparel space, Fashion UK md Gurdev Mattu has written on LicensingSource.net about how millennial attitudes to sustainability will continue to influence the fashion industry and the importance of ethical fibres, such as cotton.

“There is growing interest in sustainable materials, including bamboo, hemp and regenerated cellulose like viscose, as well as ethically produced cotton,” he explains.

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TREND: ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

National Geographic has been leading research in environmental issues for the last 130 years and has been part of all key scientific milestones, space exploration, flight, Polar expeditions and animal research to name a few. This ethos is something which also carries through to its licensing business, as Helena Mansell-Stopher, director of UK licensing at National Geographic Partners, explains.

“We will be driving two key areas of the business, the first aligning closely to some of our core initiatives, for example the issues around marine plastics,” she tells LSB. “We have already started aligning with our key partners - Original Buff is launching a line of products using recycled plastic for SS19, while JJ&C, our luggage and accessory partner, will be launching a new collection of recycled PET plastic for SS19.

“Our new collaboration with Clarks will have a sustainable message, and our new partner First Natural Brands, which is launching a health and beauty line, will use recycled packaging and ingredients that are 100% natural. We are also in final conversations for shopping bags, water bottles, homewares and much more.”

The second area will be to drive the kids business to educate the next generation, Helena explains.

The rise of new materials – such as new yarns from marine plastics, yarns and plastics made from old fishing nets and plastics from bamboo – mean manufacturers can start to incorporate Above: Helena Mansell-Stopher says them into their plans.

National Geographic Partners is also looking to educate the next Helena continues: generation.

“With a subject that is so big, you have to start small - packaging is something that I know many manufacturers are looking at reducing, manufacturing using renewable energy sources… there are many ways to reduce our environmental impact without it costing the earth.

“With the power of a brand’s voice, licensing should be leading this conversation to the consumer.”

Toy pledges A number of key toy companies have set out goals to work towards to minimise the environmental footprint of their operations.

Hasbro: Earlier this year the company announced it would begin using plantbased bio-polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for blister packs and plastic windows in its product packaging starting in 2019. Back in 2010, it eliminated wire ties; in 2013 it replaced polyvinyl Above: Hasbro has launched a chloride (PVC) with PET; toy recycling pilot programme in the US. and it achieved 90% recycled or sustainably-sourced paper for packaging and in-box content in 2015.

Hasbro uses 100% renewable energy and is carbon neutral across its US operations, and has achieved 99% across all global operations. In addition, the company is pursuing a set of ambitious environmental goals for 2025.

Meanwhile, it announced a toy recycling pilot programme in the US to coincide with Earth Day in April.

Below: LEGO has begun LEGO: The LEGO Group production on a range of is aiming for 100% sustainable LEGO elements made from plant-based plastic sustainable packaging sourced from sugarcane. by 2025. Steps the company is taking to improve the sustainability of its packaging include using recycled plastic in packaging ‘blisters’, while approximately 75% of cardboard used to make LEGO boxes comes from recycled material. The average size of a LEGO box has been reduced by 14% over the past four years, improving transport efficiency, saving on average every year over 3,000 truckloads and 7,000 tonnes of cardboard.

Meanwhile, production has started on a range of sustainable LEGO elements made from plantbased plastic sourced from sugarcane. The new ‘botanical’ elements will come in varieties including leaves, bushes and trees.

Mattel: The company’s website says that it looks to make continuous improvements through its three related platforms – design it with the end in mind; make it with eco-efficiencies; and live it with personal commitment.

Mattel’s Sustainable Sourcing Principles state that the company is committed to advancing the use of sustainably-sourced paper and wood fibre in its packaging and products.

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Retail Round-up Inset: Smyths has added a further 90 stores to its portfolio.

Shop floor stories So far, while 2018 has brought troubles for some retailers, others have been thriving in the licensed space, both on the high street and online. LSB rounds up some of the latest happenings.

Smyths swoops as Toys R Us closes Smyths Toys Superstores is to acquire Toys R Us’ operations in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, in a move that will create the largest toy retailer in Europe.

Smyths Toys already successfully operates 110 toy stores and online shops in Ireland and Great Britain, and will now add a further 90 stores and online operations in another three European countries.

As LSB went to press, subject to the final approval of the responsible court as well as other regulatory and contractual obligations, Smyths will acquire and rebrand all businesses branded Toys R Us in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

It will also take on all employees and management in these three countries, including the head office in Cologne.

“We are convinced about the future of multi-channel specialist toy retail and are confident that we can successfully introduce and grow our brand in Continental Europe,” said Tony Smyth on behalf of Smyths Toys.

The move follows the closure of all TRU UK stores after the retailer entered administration.

Online shines for Mothercare

Harrods reveals new toy department

Online sales were a bright spot in Mothercare’s latest trading update, with the baby and toddler retailer reporting growth in the area.

Mothercare reported online sales growth of 2.1%, with website sales growth of 7.2% for the 12week period to March 24. Notably, online sales within the period represented 49% of UK sales, bringing FY to 43%.

However, UK like for like sales declined 2.8% impacted by reduced store consumer footfall.

There was also continued progress with the store rationalisation programme, leading to total UK sales 5.6% lower than last year.

Internationally, retail sales were 3.7% lower in constant currency (-11.0% in actual). Russia was impacted by lower market footfall, although Middle East growth continued throughout the period.

Harrods will open the doors of its new-look toy department from mid-May. The space is now located on the fourth floor of the luxury department store and will aim to offer the ‘ultimate array’ of products, experience and service.

The rooms will be divided into eight-mood enhancing sections, distinguished by the use of colour and designed to capture the imagination of customers, with dedicated staff on hand to guide parents to the appropriate room.

Features of the new space include a fancy-dress fitting room, fun activities and daily demonstrations of the latest games and toy trends, all taking place in a dedicated pop-up area.

In addition, throughout the year there will be regular weekend events, enabling involvement and entertainment for every child and adult. Popular elements of the original Toy Kingdom will remain in the new department.

Above: UK like for likes declined at Mothercare for the 12 weeks to March 24.

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Below: The toy department is now on the fourth floor of the luxury department store.

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Hasbro teams with Tesco Hasbro has rolled out a new My Little Pony infant and toddler range under its Playskool Baby brand, exclusively at Tesco.

The 23-strong product range – which launched in April – consists of toys, apparel, bedding and toilet training lines.

Hasbro has worked with licensees Golden Bear (toy and plush), Paul Dennicci (apparel and Above: The new infant and bedding) and Solution toddler range includes 23 items.

EU (toilet training) to deliver the range.

The new infant range will be a key part of Tesco’s Nursery offering and will be supported on the Tesco website, in the magazine, in-store and across other key customer communication. It also features in Tesco’s current Baby Event with significant marketing support.

Uniqlo ramps up licensed offer Uniqlo has significantly bolstered its licensed apparel line-up of late.

The Chupa Chups has become the latest to appear on the shelves of the retailer – joining its The Brands Masterpiece collection. The collaboration aims to celebrate internationally familiar brands from categories including music, food, electronics and home.

It includes three men’s tshirts inspired by the heritage of the Chupa Chups brand, all showcasing the logo and brand icons.

Uniqlo is also working with master contemporary artist Takashi Murakami on a collection featuring animated character, Doraemon.

There are 15 items available including men’s and children’s t-shirts, as well as a Doraemon plush toy with artwork by Takashi.

The retailer has also been heavily promoting its collaboration with Finnish design house, Marimekko.

Jigsaw clicks with Kodak Fashion retailer Jigsaw has collaborated with the Kodak brand, launching a new capsule collection of logo t-shirts and sweatshirts.

Inspired by a Kodak campaign from 1893, Jigsaw has relaunched the brand as Kodak Woman to champion women in creative industries.

Kodak Woman is inspired by the original Kodak Girl campaign.

Independent, with a love for travel, Kodak Girl was created in 1893 by the company’s founder and inventor of the hand-held camera, George Eastman.

Left: The Kodak brand features on t-shirts and sweatshirts.

Smiley ties with Primark and Penneys SmileyWorld has launched its first major cross category retail programme for all ages and genders with Primark and Penneys.

The new 70-piece lifestyle collection features products for tweens, teens and young adults of all genders, and will be available throughout Europe and the US in Primark and Penneys stores.

It follows on the back of some successful launches in 2017 with retailers including Pull & Bear, Zara, Only, Selected and Orchestra among others.

The Primark X Smiley launch features products from a selection of Smiley’s licensees including BCI, TV Mania/Fashion Lab, Poetic Gem, Difuzed (Bioworld Europe), Fashion UK, Drew Pearson, Blueprint, Character World and Lutti, which have together delivered a range of on-trend products that pay homage to Smiley’s legacy in music and draws reference from 90’s grunge themes.

With a big nod to street styles and spotlighting some of the hottest seasonal trends, the collection boasts camouflage print, reversible sequins adorned on urban silhouettes, holograph t-shirts, custom printed denim, as well as nightwear and accessories.

Below: The 70-piece lifestyle collection is available across Europe and the US.

Above: Chupa Chups tees have launched at Uniqlo.

Tu launches in Argos Sainsbury’s has launched its popular Tu clothing range at Argos stores.

Customers can order Tu clothing online by 2pm for next day home delivery or free Click & Collect from 1,100 Sainsbury’s and Argos stores.

Tu clothing contributes close to £1 billion of annual sales to the group and, by offering customers the convenience to buy and collect the full ranges at Argos, Sainsbury’s is looking to further accelerate its clothing growth.

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BLE’s Retail Mentoring Programme takes shape Tesco has underlined the importance of licensing to its business – vastly increasing the number of its buyers who are involved in this year’s Retail Mentoring Programme run by Brand Licensing Europe.

The grocer has put forward 22 buyers from 11 categories for the programme. Last year, the chain was represented by four delegates from two departments – F&F and toys.

In 2018, Tesco buyers from licensing, books, season gifting, nursery, DVD, news & magazines, sports and fitness, marketplace and customer proposition will also join the programme.

Overall, a total of 74 delegates from 17 retailers have already been confirmed for the Retail Mentoring Programme in 2018, exceeding last year’s 47 attendees.

New retailers include River Island, Ann Summers, Hamleys, Asda, Halfords, Absolute Cult and Beija London. Returning retailers are: Character.com, John Lewis, M&Co, Matalan, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, The Entertainer, TruffleShuffle.com and Toymaster.

Below: Tesco has put forward 22 buyers from 11 categories.

The Entertainer opens new Westfield London flagship Toy retailer The Entertainer has opened the doors of its new-look flagship store in Westfield London.

The global flagship outlet has been relaunched following a £700,000 refit, which has created ‘an immersive experience’ for children, according to the retailer.

The 4,500 sq. ft store, which employs 19 people, has been refitted to offer children an engaging, exciting and more entertaining shopping experience.

The in-store journey is led by new technologies such as animated window screens, interactive floor projections, augmented reality mirrors and ‘The Launch Pad’ Tech Tables, while also retaining the counter steps at the tills.

The opening follows the news of a 37% increase in YOY profits for the retailer. The Entertainer posted an increase in total sales of 6.8% in the 12-month period February 1, 2017 to January 27, 2018, compared to the same period last year, with LFL store sales broadly flat.

Above: The opening of the store followed a £700,000 refit.

Joe Wicks heads to Westfield London

AllSaints makes fragrance move Contemporary fashion brand and retailer AllSaints has secured an exclusive global licence with Revlon which will see the launch of its first fragrance collection.

Fragrances and ancillary products will make their debut in autumn 2018, further expanding AllSaints’ growth in the licensing space.

Earlier this year, the brand – which is known for its iconic biker jackets – secured a deal with Global Brands Group to expand its accessories range.

Below: AllSaints is expanding its licensing programme.

A new campaign featuring Joe Wicks The Body Coach and The Muppets is promoting a series of food and wellness events taking place at Westfield’s London shopping centres.

A creative campaign to raise awareness for the initiative launched last week, reported Campaign.

It sees Joe cooking with the Swedish Chef, having dinner with Miss Piggy and keeping fit with Animal.

The Joe Wicks Café will be at the core of the activation, which runs through May and June.

Right: Joe Wicks is working with The Muppets on the Westfield London initiative.

Poundland inks celeb brace Poundland has teamed with former TOWIE stars Ferne McCann and Mario Falcone to launch two exclusive health and beauty ranges across all of its 900 stores.

The deal – which was brokered by Saphia Maxamed at London Entertainment, with Anthony Balkin as the licensee – saw a collection of items including body wash, lotions and body sprays, personally designed by Ferne and Mario, launch for men and women, priced at £1.

Right: Ferne McCann has launched a health and beauty line with Poundland.

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RILEY’S CHAPTER & VERSE

Inset: Films such as Paddington 2, Moana and LEGO Batman helped to boost the market.

Playing by the book With the total book market rising slightly in 2017, the children’s sector continues to hold its own, with over half of the top ten publishers recording growth. But there can be no doubt that the book market is changing. David Riley chats to Nielsen Book Research and three of the key publishers in the licensing space to find out more.

T

he book market is changing. The recent news about the potential closure of Parragon Books is extremely sad news for staff, suppliers and customers alike, but it also underlines the shift that has been happening in the market.

What’s really been going on in the children’s book market, and more specifically in the licensing business? I spoke to Scott Morton, media account manager at Nielsen Book Research to get an overview of 2017.

The total book market value in 2017 was up on 2016 by 0.2%. A whopping £1.6bn was spent on 189.8 million books in the year (down 2.7% on 2016). Within this, children’s (which accounts for about a quarter of the market) was down by 1.6% in volume and flat on value on the previous year. However, given that 2016’s figures were buoyed up by a big slug of revenue from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the performance shows underlying growth. Some 94% of children’s sales came from physical books, and over half of the top ten publishers including Macmillan Children’s Books, HarperCollins, Egmont, Hachette, Scholastic and Walker - all recorded growth.

Author brands dominated the top ten in 2017 – Harry Potter, David Walliams, Julia Donaldson, Tom

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Gates, Roald Dahl and Jeff Kinney’s Wimpy Kid delivered £62.5m in revenue compared to £21.8m from LEGO, Star Wars, Peppa Pig and all Disney.

Not surprisingly, the biggest drivers of sales remain authors, not properties: picture books and fiction for children and young adults delivered over 60% of the entire market.

Within licensed brands, Gruffalo, Pokémon, My Little Pony, Trolls and Shopkins achieved consecutive years of growth. A genuine boost was also given to the market by cinematic properties such as Beauty and the Beast, Paddington 2, Moana, Spider-man and LEGO Batman. And new players like Centum and Bonnier are gaining ground in licensed publishing.

Here’s Helen Wicks, business development and group licensing director at Bonnier: “2017 was a pivotal year for Bonnier Publishing UK. Not only did we acquire a number of big properties including Disney and Beano, but also we established ourselves as a creative force, an

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RILEY’S CHAPTER & VERSE

YOY and no new imaginative content creator brands made it into able to engage with a range even the top 20. The of brands and translate market is ever more them into different forms risk averse.” for fans. We look to balance Sarah continues: our portfolio of licences “Value is a key trend at between the new and the retail that is here to classic, combining enduring stay. Growth is all evergreens with hot, trend coming from the driven properties where discount sectors and timing and speed to we [even] see that market is all.” across multiple Also noteworthy is the Above: Star Wars and Minecraft continue to European markets.” growth of nonperform for Egmont.

Right: Bonnier will be So what lies in store fiction, driven by publishing a number of in 2018? beautiful, high cross-over Disney titles in Q4, says Helen Wicks.

For Hachette, it’s all specification Left, below right and below: Bonnier about animals. Here’s information books acquired big properties Katie Price, licensing featuring licensed including Disney and Beano in 2017. director at Hachette Children’s Group: “I am brands. This category Bottom: Hachette’s Katie Price is excited really excited about many of the great achieved the biggest about the collectable percentage growth of brands on the market. collectable brands on the market and am still looking for all in 2017. Titles something with strong featuring Minecraft, publishing potential.

Pokémon, LEGO and Star Wars all Although not strictly fit this profile and with Fantastic licensing, watch out for Beasts and the Crimes of some more unicorns, Grindelwald airing in November llamas and other more 2018, this category should hold up magical animals later well this year. this year.”

Nowhere is the volume slide in For Bonnier’s Helen, character books more starkly clear meanwhile: “Our fourth than in annuals which have been in quarter will see steady decline for ten years. In 2017 publication of a number of exciting cross-over the number one annual (Beano) sold Disney titles, celebrating the brand’s incredible 134k copies and generated £541k. ASP illustrative heritage and storytelling.” was £4.02. Look back to 2011 and Egmont’s Sarah concludes: “2018 is going to be Beano was also the top selling annual, hugely exciting for us. We’ll be going dinosaur but back then it sold 181k copies and mad in the summer with Jurassic World 2 and at generated £766k (ASP £4.23). Look the end of the year we’re gearing up for what even further back to 2008 and the top we think will be the biggest character launch in seller was High School Musical. It sold books of the year, Roblox.”

285k copies and generated over £1.2m. The annual 2017 was a good year for children’s books, but a was £1 cheaper than annuals today, but the ASP tough year for characters. Will 2018 see an was £4.24 (compared to £4.02 in 2017). improvement? It’s all to play for….

I spoke to Sarah Bates, commercial director at Egmont, who says: “2017 was a tough year for the For further information on Nielsen BookScan TCM UK Market character book market. Our estimation puts the and Nielsen Books and ConsumersTM please contact market down by 16% year on year. That can mostly infobookresearch@nielsen.com Copyright © David Riley, David Riley Consulting Limited be attributed to the performance of the top ten David is an independent publishing and licensing consultant and agent specialising in book and magazine publishing. Contact him at characters in the market. Six out of the top ten Davidianriley16@gmail.com for independent support and advice. (licensed) brands in the market were in decline LICENSING SOURCE BOOK EUROPE 2018

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SPOTLIGHT ON… THE EMOJI COMPANY

Picture Perfect In April 2015, Andy Murray wanted to exclaim to the world his joy at his marriage to Kim Sears in a tweet.

Unusually the whole wedding was portrayed in emojis.

Some hail them as the modern-day hieroglyphics and there’s no denying that a well placed emoji can speak volumes, transcending any language barriers. LSB finds out more. hile emoticons have been around for some time, in licensing terms the emoji brand was created in the year 2013.

“Our vision was to transport the communicative power of using icons in digital communication within the field of merchandising and licensing under one umbrella brand,” explains Marco Hüsges, ceo and founder of emoji. “It took us almost two years to make our vision come true. The emoji brand was launched during Las Vegas Licensing Show in 2015.”

With a staggering 560 core licensees under its belt globally since launch, the power of the brand is undeniable.

For Marco the emoji brand perfectly unites the most fundamental aspects of a lifestyle brand; it stands for variety, creativity, fun and quality. He comments: “There is no better way to express your feelings and emotions than saying it with emoji.

There are no boundaries in communication and

W

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the message gets spread in a simple, clean and understandable way which gives the brand its universal power.”

Key licensing partnerships globally include programmes with Nestle for shaped water bottles, a global deal with Ferrero (Kinder Joy), fashion collaborations with Zara, DeFacto, Cotton On and C&A, as well as DTR arrangements with retailers such as Walmart.

The licensing activity is managed by 21 agents all around the world and the emoji company has offices in Germany and North America and will soon expand into Asia to give more local support to its partners in the region. Bravado became the licensing agent for the emoji brand for the UK and the Nordics in January 2017.

The UK licensing business has really grown in the last year with the licensee count now reaching some 35 partners. “Most recently we have signed some great licences with Lazerbuilt (audio and travel equipment), Zimpli Kids (baff Inset: Marco Hüsges, ceo and founder of emoji.

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SPOTLIGHT ON‌ THE EMOJI COMPANY

Inset: Shower gels and deodorants from Lornamead.

Right: It’s a dog’s life with this range from Thread Collective.

Below: Nestle has created a range of emoji branded water bottles.

đ&#x;˜œ

emoji stateside The emoji brand is going down a storm in the US, with Global Merchandising Services – which manages the property in the territory – brokering over 42 deals to date.

Deals have been struck across categories including apparel, backpacks, accessories, back to school, cosmetics, sleepwear and party goods.

Most recently, Global has secured a worldwide partnership with Leng Universal for an extensive line of kids, junior and young men’s denim and knit apparel, due to launch in the summer.

In addition, this year will see the arrival of a range of emoji products in Cotton On’s 1,500+ stores. The line will include apparel and accessories, as well as novelty and stationery items.

On top of this, World Tech Toys has recently introduced its line of remote control toys.

products), GA Global (collectable pins and charms) and even for a hot air balloon with Lindstrandtech,�

Marco explains. Bravado has also teamed with high-end fashion designer Edward Crutchley for a new contemporary collection.

The collaboration – which debuted on the London Fashion Week Men catwalk – is the second for the emoji brand in the luxury market.

Marco outlines that the focus in the UK next year is to continue to grow the emoji licensed programme across core categories and also more fun and innovative product categories. “We are especially looking to expand into health and beauty and toy industries as emoji lends itself perfectly to these categories as a fun, expressive way to connect to consumers,� he says.

While the emoji may have spawned from our evolving technology and the changing landscape of communication, Marco is confident that the brand can withstand any seismic shifts in the world of mobile technology.

He also points out that while technology limits the amount of icons that are available on your smartphone, the emoji company has no limits

when it comes down to variety.

Currently there are more than 10,000 icons, characters and patterns all protected under applicable copyright laws and available for legitimate licensing, which is more than three times more than what is available on people´s smartphones. And the demand for new content is high. “We constantly listen to the requests from end users and continuously build new icons and style guides,� says Marco.

At present the company is working on some strategic partnerships and it is focusing on opening up its own emoji monobrand stores. Moving even further ahead Marco has more ambitious plans to establish emoji as an evergreen lifestyle brand in the market. “Together with our licensees we aim to offer quality product and to create a sustainable business which is all that matters,� he promises. “For this we aim to build a whole lifestyle experience that includes games, music, apps etc.�

Content too will be a driver for the future success of the brand and Marco reveals that they are analysing their options for coming up with an animated series and to develop a musical.

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Inset: Vivid’s toy division is eagerly anticipating the launch of Tiana Toys AndMe products.

FACE TO FACE WITH… VIVID

The future is bright 2017 saw toy company Vivid undergo a number of changes including the arrival of new owners and a fresh ceo. However, its licensed portfolio was also bolstered by Nickelodeon’s preschool property Nella the Princess Knight and YouTube sensation Tiana Toys AndMe. LSB chats to international licensing director, Emma Weber, to find out more.

“We are the same entrepreneurial business as we were when we set up 25 years ago and sometimes we just see something in a Above: “We have a great property, that magic breadth of properties across our portfolio” says ingredient, the X factor that Emma Weber. we feel will turn into an exciting toy line and appeal to children,” Emma Weber, international licensing director at Vivid, explains to LSB. The toy company is in a good place currently, with a number of strong licences in its locker and a reinvigorated outlook.

Last year saw the ownership of Vivid change hands, with new investors, Privet, coming on board, bringing additional investment and focus for the business. New ceo Tony Hicks arrived, while other appointments were also made to ensure the company had all the resources needed for growth.

And this means there are now plenty of options to build up the licensing portfolio alongside its own-brand offer. Its Crayola business is

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performing well, with the roster including Disney, PJ Masks, PAW Patrol, Peppa Pig, My Little Pony, Spider-man and Shopkins among others, and there are plans to further grow the category moving into 2019.

The games portfolio also includes some evergreen licences, such as Catchphrase and Family Fortunes, while the Disney Emoji line is also benefiting from Vivid’s new strategy to build stories around the characters in its collectable ranges to help children engage further.

The big news for Vivid though comes in the form of Nickelodeon’s preschool property, Nella the Princess Knight (see separate box out), and YouTube star Tiana Toys AndMe. With 1.6 billion channel views and a forecast to reach 10 million subscribers by summer 2018, Vivid is launching its toy range for Tiana Toys AndMe into the UK, US and Australia/New Zealand later this year.

Right: The Disney Emoji range continues to perform well in the collectables category.

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FACE TO FACE WITH… VIVID

Emma explains: “The toy line brings physical and digital play together through innovative surprise unboxing which includes the Tiana doll and insanely cute micro toys and accessories so you can build your own micro world and become Tiana the ‘unboxer’. Marketing will be led by a digital campaign across multiple platforms and channels as well as Tiana meet and greets at retail.”

When it comes to Nella – for which Vivid is the master toy – the company is working closely with Nickelodeon on various promotional activations for on-air, online and at retail. These will be supported by a TV ad campaign featuring Talk and Sing and Style Me Nella, as well as a role-play ad spot targeting 1,500 TVRs. “We certainly took our time to find the next master toy opportunity in preschool that was the right fit for Vivid,” Emma continues. “We are lucky in that we see a lot of fantastic, creative content but our strategy was to move towards global rights and Nickelodeon properties offer just that.

Vivid has offices in the UK, France and Germany and have rest of world reach through an amazing distributor network and also relationships direct with retail in key markets. We waited for the right property that allowed the R+D team the opportunity to develop a truly global product line.

Those licences don’t come round that often.”

Even though the retail environment is very fluid at the moment, Emma says this has not dampened the response for great product, including licensed lines. “If the product and property are exciting the retailers are just as keen as always to get behind it,” she says. “The product itself, packaging, marketing and off-shelf promotion are all then vital to ensure it is top of mind for kids and parents when they are shopping.”

With the 2018 portfolio now locked down and listings in place, Vivid has now set its sights on securing rights for autumn/winter 2019 and into 2020. Emma teases: “There are some exciting discussions in licensing on the horizon and also a strong focus in-house to develop our own IP that may well have ‘licensing out’ opportunities.”

For the immediate future though, Emma is clear

Knight watch Understandably, Nella the Princess Knight is a major priority for Vivid going forward.

Emma says: “When we first saw the property we knew that preschoolers would relate to such an exciting character, a princess who transforms into a daring knight. Nella is a positive and empowering role model for preschoolers and we could instantly see that the transformation from Princess to Knight would enable us to develop a compelling role-play category within the toy range.”

Toys launched earlier this year in several international markets including the UK, with the range encompassing figures, play-sets, plush, dolls and role-play.

Emma continues: “Transformation is so intrinsic to the show DNA that we have created two star products for autumn/winter: a Transforming Princess Knight Nella doll, as well as a Transforming Rose Shield – both TV promoted later this year. We have very ambitious product plans for Nella as we look towards the launch in the US during 2018 and to support the growing international potential.

“We have a breadth of categories to develop into and the creativity between Vivid and Nickelodeon when we brainstorm new concepts together is boundless.”

Below: The Transforming Princess Knight Nella doll is a star product for autumn/winter.

Left: The successful Crayola business includes licences such as PAW Patrol, Peppa Pig and PJ Masks.

on her goals for the remainder of 2018.

She tells LSB: “We have marketing and promotional plans in place to ensure we build a strong and successful platform for our new brands including Tiana and Nella this autumn/winter. This in turn will allow us to escalate our product development plans and investment into 2019.

“We will continue to build on our critical distribution and licensed partnerships, while at the same time looking to develop more and more of our own exciting product to expand our international footprint.”

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BRAND FOCUS: RICK AND MORTY

Inset: Rick and Morty was the number one TV comedy among adults aged 18-24 and 18-34 in the US in 2017.

Rick and roll A hit with TV viewers, licensees and retailers alike, Rick and Morty – the crazy animated sci-fi comedy from Turner’s Adult Swim – is certainly making its mark. Already a pop culture phenomenon in the US and well on its way to achieving the same status in the UK, Cartoon Network Enterprises has major plans when it comes to growing the licensing programme.

LSB finds out more.

“We always knew that there was something special about Rick and Morty, but weren’t quite expecting it to become the phenomenon that it has so quickly,” muses Graham Saltmarsh, director of licensing UK and Nordics at Cartoon Network Enterprises EMEA. “I think it’s because the show is really like nothing else and oozes brilliance; the writing is supersmart, but cleverly blended with comedy and this mix is clearly resonating with millennial audiences.”

The animated sci-fi comedy from Turner’s Adult Swim has certainly struck a chord with TV viewers, licensees and retailers alike. The US has a diverse licensing programme and Graham says the UK is looking to mirror that.

Current UK licensees include Funko, GB eye, Winning Moves, CID, Poetic Gem, Wow Stuff, Pyramid, Absolute Left: “We have huge confidence that the property will continue to grow and flourish” says Graham Saltmarsh.

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Right: GB eye currently has 212 different lines in its range.

Cult, Roy Lowe and Sons, Danilo, Dreamtex, Paladone, Lazerbuilt, Bioworld Europe, Spreadshirt, EMP Online, Just Funky, BWI, Whitehouse Leisure and Titan Publishing.

Graham explains: “The nature of the show has given our licensees a new lease of life to create slightly more unusual and humorous products that appeal to Rick and Morty fans – including apparel, accessories, gifting, novelty and collectables.”

Reaction, says Graham, has been fantastic across the board. For example, Forbidden Planet’s ‘Riggity Wrecked’ t-shirt is fast on its way to becoming one of the retailer’s bestselling

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BRAND FOCUS: RICK AND MORTY

Rick and Morty: Need to know

Above: Apparel has been a key category for the brand.

products of all time and it had a staggering sellthrough rate for an exclusive Rick and Morty Christmas jumper last year. Meanwhile, HMV has sold over 120,000 t-shirts since July 2017.

As the show’s popularity continues to grow, Graham says that Cartoon Network is seeing Rick and Morty fans seeking out content wherever they can, creating their own content, sharing and discussing it with their peers. All of which means the company is confident that there will continue to be a high level of demand for merchandise.

The more adult nature of the programme also broadens the portfolio of licensees that Cartoon Network can work with and Graham is keen to explore collaborative relationships, ‘out of the box’ ideas and retail events for the brand.

In terms of new product categories, Graham adds: “We are working on some terrific dress-up at the moment. The Pickle Rick sleeping bag is a joy to behold and I literally can’t wait for the Wow Stuff Testicle Finder to be launched… I think that says it all!”

Marketing activity and fan events are also being planned, following on from Rick and Morty’s success at San Diego and London Comic-Con last year. Cartoon Network is also constantly working

“The show really is like nothing else,” says Cartoon Network’s Graham Saltmarsh. If you’ve never seen Rick and Morty, it follows a sociopathic genius scientist who drags his inherently timid grandson on insanely dangerous adventures across the universe.

The show’s first season premiered in the US in December 2013, with the third season beginning last summer and 2017 seeing it become the year’s number one TV comedy among adults aged 18-24 and 18-34 in the US. Rick and Morty is also rapidly gaining a strong fanbase this side of the Atlantic, too. Season three has launched exclusively on Netflix in some key EMEA markets including the UK, making the show easily accessible and viewable on demand for the first time.

It also currently ranks as one of IMDB’s top rated shows of the last 25 years, with an impressive 9.3/10 rating and, already in 2018, the show has scooped highly-coveted awards including an Annie for Best General Audience Animated TV/Broadcast Production, alongside a Critics’ Choice Television Award Best Animated Series.

with retailers and licensees to create in-store theatre, as well as running competitions. “Keep your eyes peeled for the ‘Taiwan Toilet’ restaurant competition – it will be unforgettable,” promises Graham.

Hopes are understandably high for the future of Rick and Morty, with Graham and his team aiming to have deepened the retail presence by the end of the year, taking it into new retail channels.

Graham concludes: “The show’s undeniable social currency has enabled us to form the fantastic partnerships that we have to date and we also plan to expand the licensee line-up by identifying cool products. We have huge confidence that the property will continue to grow and flourish in the long-term.”

The licensees’ view "Rick and Morty has been insanely successful for us,” says Emily Aldridge, licensing manager at GB eye. The company’s range is currently made up of 212 different lines from posters to glassware, 3D mugs and gift boxes among others and is still growing.

Emily continues: “The support for this brand at retail has grown and grown, with key Inset: Funko’s Portal Gun is accounts such as HMV, GameStop, MenKind and Forbidden Planet being the perfect cosplay forerunners and surprise successes in the likes of Smyths and Asda, with some exciting the accessory for fans.

2018 plans in the pipeline with many other retailers on-board. We have also seen amazing sales across Europe."

Meanwhile, Funko Europe has also received a very positive reaction from retailers to its range. Particular notable mentions include the Portal Gun, the Pint Size Heroes and two Pickle Rick Pop Vinyl figures.

Eva Dawes, head of marketing EMEA, tells LSB: "The Rick and Morty range has been hugely successful for Funko; the combination of witty humour and relatable nihilism has proven to be a massive hit with audiences across EMEA, and the wide range of weird and wonderful characters that feature make it a natural fit for the Funko brand.”

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VICKIE’S VEGAS

Inset: Take a trip to Ellis Island to track down Elvis, like Vickie and her friends.

After years of attending Licensing Expo, do you think you’ve seen everything Las Vegas has to offer? Well, we beg to differ. Here, Vickie O’Malley, md of Rockpool Licensing and Vegas aficionado, shares her recommendations for some offbeat downtime activities.

Vegas adventures ast year, I headed to Vegas early to celebrate my friend Rich’s 50th. He and his wife Lisa are Vegas veterans and regular subscribers have heard tell of our adventures. This time however, we were joined by friends, Simon and Peter, both Vegas Virgins. We had to do the obvious sights but these chaps are far from conventional.

Thanks to their adventurous spirit, I give you my Vegas 2018 downtime recommendations.

L

Right: You can be captain of your own boat at Lake Mead.

Pipe Me Aboard Captain!

Head to Lake Mead for a day of boating and the opportunity to wear a Captain’s hat. There’s a little bit of prep required because it’s not possible to reserve boats ahead of time. You’ll need to be up and at ‘em to get down to the marina before they’ve all been rented out. For this, you will need the assistance of an Uber driver who is not mad.

My advice is, if you meet a sane one, make friends. We auditioned a few and eventually did. Our lovely chap did the round trip, including a stop off at the Hoover Dam on the way home, for $200. Split

Elvis Lives!

The Dealtainers were the magnificent lookey-likey croupiers at the Imperial Palace. They tore the place down in 2012 and replaced it with the Linq. Travesty. Anyway, they were my favourites and I have tried, and failed, to track them down ever since. I heard rumours of sightings at Ellis Island and dragged everyone there. There was no sign of them but we didn’t mind; mermaid magic was still flowing, everyone was winning (apart from me) and they comp your drinks with gay abandon. Suddenly “Look – there’s Elvis!”

I spun around and sure enough, there he was. Not just any old Elvis, it was OUR Elvis. To explain, we also came to Vegas for Rich’s 40th and ended up spending half the night with this very Elvis at the IP. He even remembered me when I took some chums down to the IP the year that the show moved to Vegas. Well, there were hugs and pictures and he came and took over as our croupier and all was right with the world.

I still didn’t win, but felt like the luckiest gal on earth.

You can find the Dealtainers at Ellis Island, sort of. They seem to appear individually these days and I have to admit some of the magic is lost; like seeing a solitary sardine as opposed to the Sardine Run. www.ellisislandcasino.com

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VICKIE’S VEGAS

Inset: Mermaids can be spotted at the Silverton Casino.

Find me a Mermaid

Considering it was Simon’s first trip to Vegas, his must-do list was pleasingly eccentric and no item more so than his nonnegotiable #1, “I want to see mermaids.” This necessitated a trip to the Silverton Casino. No, me either. It’s about six miles south so we livened up the trip with a champagne-fuelled limo ride down the strip and a stop off at the WTFLV sign. By the time we got the Silverton we were very much Mermaidready. The resort itself is a bit inexplicable. It’s nicer than you’re imagining - mid-market, very straight, the John Lewis of casinos. I can imagine this might be a difficult sell for a Las Vegas hotel and, I assume, 100% of the reason that the mermaids came to be.

You can’t miss the tank, it’s a whopper, built by the chaps from aquarium-building reality TV show Tanked (how is that a thing?). We set ourselves up in the adjacent bar and waited for the pretty fish ladies. The thrill of seeing the first mermaid appear (I think Simon might actually have run) faded quite quickly. She was a mermaid in training and was using a regulator on a long hose to breathe. What a swizz. I feared someone’s dreams were about to be shattered but, thank goodness, Mermaid #2 was the real deal; free diving, waving at the children, back flipping and blowing kisses to the boys… dreams really can come true!

Check silvertoncasino.com for times.

between the five of us, a Inset: Naked bloke with a gold hat? ruddy bargain.

Check!

At the marina, there’s paperwork to fill in and a video to watch for whoever is going to be ‘in charge’. Fill this time with buying essentials water and a Captain’s hat. There’s lots of boats to pick from. We went for a pontoon in order to sunbathe and throw ourselves in and out of the water at regular intervals. Next time, we’re going for a speedboat and a full day of pretending Inset: For $25 you to be Crockett too can enjoy and/or Tubbs. ‘oxygen’ in a can.

It’s a ridiculously fun day away from the Strip; natural beauty, chilly water, deciding where to drop anchor, saying ‘pipe me aboard Captain’ at every conceivable opportunity and, above all, getting to wear that Captain’s hat.

See www.boatinglakemead.com for pricing details and directions.

I-Spy Street ‘Artists’ First in a new series of cut-out-and-keep I-Spy Vegas challenges Put extra zing into your trip Downtown with this handy, cut out and keep I-Spy challenge.

• The Chippendales • Homeless Santa • Kiss • Naked bloke with a gold hat • Naked bloke with a sock • ‘Kick me in the nuts for $20’ bloke

Oxygen in a Can Jet lag and over excitement on your first night can take a toll. As we wandered Downtown, I spotted a lady selling ‘Oxygen-in-a-can’. In the spirit of ‘what’s the worst that could happen?’, I bought some. Who knows if it really has oxygen in it. Maybe it’s just placebo or maybe it’s the inevitable laughter as you chug on it. Whatever the reason, it definitely wakes you up. I swear it wasn’t a fluke; Rob Goodchild and I combatted last night fatigue with it and it worked again! You can buy it from a cart on Fremont St for around $25 a can. I seem to remember they did a 2 for $40 multibuy deal on the last night so get down there early and stock up for the week!

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Inset: Licensing Expo has become more international over the past four years, with substantial international attendee growth.

Expo Nuts AnD Bolts

Vegas ventures In 2017, Licensing Expo had more than 406 exhibitors representing over 5,000 brands on its showfloor, and 2018 is looking likely to be just as packed, vibrant and diverse. The successful Licensing Week initiative returns, as does the popular Matchmaking Service and there’s also a couple of new things to look forward to.

LSB gets the lowdown.

With Licensing Expo 2017 having been one of the most successful shows to date, the organising team at UBM is heading into the 2018 event on a high.

Last year saw the successful debut of Licensing Week, a streamlined period of licensing industry happenings – set to be repeated in 2018 – combining networking events, the Licensing University, Opening Night Party and entertainment showcases into a cohesive schedule.

And attendees definitely appreciated the changes, says Jessica Blue, svp of the Global Licensing Group at UBM. “The show has become more international over the past four years and we’ve seen substantial international attendee growth, including an 87% increase in attendees from South Korea and a 23% increase in attendees from Japan,” she says.

“Product categories have also grown considerably - video games have experienced a 46% increase and TV, video, filming and streaming followed closely with a 45% increase. Property categories have also grown with increased presence from Home & Housewares, Food & Beverage, Left: Jessica Blue says that as the industry grows, more and more brands are embracing licensing.

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and Toys & Games. We had more than 406 exhibitors representing over 5,000 brands and onsite re-book was at 84% at the conclusion of Licensing Expo 2017, which was very exciting.”

Jessica expects this year’s event to have the “most vibrant and jam-packed” floor yet. “We’re thrilled to welcome an entire class of new exhibitors and properties to the Licensing Expo floor this year,” she continues. “As the industry continues to grow each year, more and more brands are embracing licensing.”

Some of the new brands and properties joining the throng for the first time include Country Music Association, Gearbox Software, Major League Baseball Players Association, Penguin Random House, Spin Master, Tetris and US Marine Corps to name just a few.

Licensing Expo 2018: Need to Know WHERE:

Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas

WHEN:

Tuesday May 22 Wednesday May 23 Thursday May 24

WEB: SOCIAL

www.licensingexpo.com @licensingexpo, #licensingexpo

9am-5.30pm 9am-5.30pm 9am-3.30pm

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Expo Nuts AnD Bolts

Get the party started Left: This year’s showfloor is set to be the most vibrant and jam-packed yet

In addition, the Art & Design section of the show is also expanding, with new exhibitor highlights this year including Van Gogh Museum Enterprises, National Palace Museum and tokidoki among others.

The Matchmaking Service is also back, having seen more than 3,800 meetings scheduled prior to last year’s show; an increase of over 1,200 meetings from 2016.

Jessica says: “The feedback has been extremely positive as it’s one of our most engaging features of the show. Confirmed meetings are already tracking well ahead of last year at an increase of 350%. We’ve made small changes to the user interface to improve the user’s experience and improved our communications regarding the service with instructional videos and best practices.”

The first night of the show plays host to two key networking events, ‘must attends’ for both visitors and exhibitors.

First up, the LIMA 2018 International Licensing Awards event (which is free of charge to attend) takes place on-site at the Mandalay Bay following the end of the show. A total of 132 nominees from 16 countries have been named in the shortlist, with LIMA saying that a record 42% of nominees originate from outside the US. This marks a 68% increase from last year.

Charles Riotto, LIMA president, comments: “This is a banner year for the LIMA Licensing Awards programme.

We received a record 700 submissions, which truly reflects the broad scope of licensing from around the world.

“The prestige – not to mention the sense of competition – is greater than ever and we are excited to see it all play out at the awards ceremony at Licensing Expo.”

Meanwhile, for those looking to carry on the celebrations, the official Opening Night Party will take place immediately following the awards at the Mandalay Bay, in the neighbouring Islander G ballroom. The party will take on a 1990’s theme as it marks 20 years of License Global, so attendees should get ready to party like it’s 1998.

Check out www.licensingexpo.com for full details and ticket prices.

For those first timers at the show this year – both exhibitors and visitors – Jessica has this advice: “It’s crucial to plan in advance. If you’re leaving your business development up to chance, you’re likely to miss opportunities.”

Licensing learnings After its success last year, Licensing Week will return in 2018 with UBM revealing a raft of educational and experiential activity which is set to take place.

New to the programming slate for this year is InventHelp’s Virtual Invention Browsing Experience (VIBE). This aims to connect enterprising brand owners Above: Fanatics’ chief commercial officer, Cole Gahagan and manufacturers with forward-thinking inventors gave the opening keynote address in 2017. looking to bring the newest products to market.

Meanwhile, the Licensing University will once again boast a full schedule of seminars, roundtable and panel sessions. Subjects will cover international licensing, how AR/VR technologies will affect licensing and piracy issues among others.

This year’s Opening Keynote (taking place on Tuesday May 22) will be delivered by Nicholas Denissen, vp of Amazon, who will speak about how brands can grow their business online and what Amazon is doing to enable them.

"Licensing Week was born out of a desire to give our attendees a well-rounded, 360 degree experience at Licensing Expo, and this year's line-up certainly reflects this mission," says Jessica.

"From the VIBE activation to the networking sessions and Licensing University educational talks and content, I'm confident that anyone seeking to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the licensing world will walk away with practical tools they can immediately put to use."

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FOR LICENSING OPPORTUNITIES, VISIT US AT THE LICENSING EXPO STAND Q236 OR CONTACT: EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA:

US, CANADA & LATIN AMERICA:

REST OF THE WORLD:

Jason Rice Email: jason.rice@sega.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 208 996 4568

Anoulay Tsai Email: anoulay.tsai@segaamerica.com Tel: +1 (747) 400 2410, ext.203

Shigefumi Tanzawa Email: shigefumi.tanzawa@sega.com Tel: +81 3 6871 7122

www.SEGA.co.uk

/SEGA

@SEGA_Europe

/SEGA_Europe

/segaeurope ©SEGA

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LICENSING EXPO PREVIEW

American Beauties Thousands upon thousands of brands will be taking a bow at this year’s Licensing Expo across a raft of categories. As the industry gets ready to pack its collective bags for Las Vegas, LSB casts its eye over just some of what will be on display at the Mandalay Bay.

Roaring success It’s been 25 years since Jurassic Park captured the imaginations of global audiences, and 2018 will see Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom make its debut in cinemas. Anchored by global partners, Mattel and LEGO, the Jurassic World franchise is supported by its largest programme to date.

Other focuses for Universal Brand Development will include Mortal Engines, which will premiere in December, The Voyage of Doctor Dolittle (April 2019) and the continuation of the Fast & Furious franchise.

Meanwhile, from Illumination and Universal Pictures, the reimagined version of Dr Seuss’ The Grinch arrives in November and stars Benedict Cumberbatch. Master toy licensee is Just Play. The Secret Life of Pets 2 will debut in June 2019, while in 2020 fans can look forward to Minions 2 and Sing 2.

UBD will also be discussing the next film in the DreamWorks’ How To Train Your Dragon franchise, Trolls 2, 2D animated Netflix series, Trolls The Beat Goes On and Spirit Riding Free.

Network nation Cartoon Network Enterprises is planning to make a number of announcements on key licensing partnerships with its Cartoon Network and Adult Swim brands.

The Ben 10 franchise – which was successfully relaunched around the world last year – will continue to grow in 2018 with an extensive licensing programme. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, The Powerpuff Girls will grow with new and continuing licensing partners.

Additionally, the consumer products programme will significantly expand around the world for Adult Swim series, Rick and Morty.

Other brands that will be highlighted during the show include Steven Universe, We Bare Bears, Adventure Time and The Amazing World of Gumball among others.

Below: Ben 10 is continuing to Booth D170 grow its licensing programme.

Booth F170

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FOR LICENSING OPPORTUNITIES, VISIT US AT THE LICENSING EXPO STAND Q236 OR CONTACT:

Europe, Middle East and Africa: Jason Rice

Toby Rayfield

Director of Brand Licensing Senior Licensing Manager EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA: Email: jason.rice@sega.co.uk Email: toby.rayfield@sega.co.uk Toby Rayfield Jason Tel: Rice+44 (0) 208 996 4568 Tel: +44 (0) 208 996 4494 Kay Ferneyhough

Senior Licensing Manager Retail & Trade Marketing Manager Director of Brand Licensing Email: toby.rayfield@sega.co.uk Email: kay.ferneyhough@sega.co.uk Email: jason.rice@sega.co.uk © Copyright Workshop Limited 2018.

Warhammer, the Warhammer logo, GW,+44 Games Workshop, Game of Fantasy Battles, 4494 the twin-tailed comet logo, and all associated illustrations, images,208 names, creatures, races, 4407 vehicles, locations, weapons, characters, Tel: (0)The208 996 Tel:logos, +44 (0) 996 Tel: +44 (0)Games 208 996 4568 and the distinctive likeness thereof, are either ® or TM, and/or © Games Workshop Limited, variably registered around the world, and used under licence. Developed by Creative Assembly and published by SEGA. Creative Assembly, the Creative Assembly logo, Total War and the Total War logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of The Creative Assembly Limited. SEGA and the SEGA logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of SEGA Holdings Co., Ltd. or its affiliates. All rights reserved. SEGA is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are property of their respective owners.

©SEGA

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LICENSING EXPO PREVIEW

Full of character The Shaun the Sheep brand continues to flourish with series five broadcasting in over 170 territories worldwide and a movie sequel in production for launch in 2019. Aardman is working closely with Studiocanal on developing a licensing and promotional programme for the film, including publishing and live experiences.

This summer will also see the launch of Learning Time with Timmy, a new educational online series for early years English language learners. The series is set to launch on a dedicated YouTube channel and with a number of international broadcasters, having been developed in collaboration with the British Council.

Meanwhile, Wallace & Gromit will be celebrating 30 years in 2019 and Aardman is looking to talk to partners for its anniversary campaign.

Booth K230

Right: Learning Time with Timmy will launch this summer.

Hasbro highlights

Works of art

Hasbro will showcase top and emerging franchises Transformers, My Little Pony, Nerf, Hasbro Gaming, Littlest Pet Shop, Magic: The Gathering, Monopoly and its newest franchise brand, Baby Alive.

Transformers will be boosted further by the planned December release of the Bumblebee film, while Nerf is a key player in action-based performance toys as well as being a lifestyle brand for kids and adults. Hasbro Gaming’s portfolio, meanwhile, includes favourites such as Monopoly and Twister.

South Seas Ballroom E – Level 3

The Van Gogh Museum is a first time exhibitor at Licensing Expo. Founded in 1973, it houses the world’s largest collection of Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings, drawings, sketches and letters, welcoming millions of visitors from across the world each year.

Its aim is to make the work of Van Gogh accessible to as many people as possible. It is currently working with a wide range of international brands across various sectors including Bugaboo and Samsonite.

Right: Nerf has expanded into a lifestyle brand for children and adults.

Pokémon is gearing up for a big year in 2019, with the Detective Pikachu live action animation movie due for UK release in May next year, starring Ryan Reynolds, Rita Ora and Bill Nighy.

Pokémon animation reached significantly greater UK viewers this year as POP and Sky UK acquired multiple seasons and movies to air on the channels and on demand, while Pokémon The Series Sun & Moon – Ultra Adventures recently launched in CITV. Pokémon GO launched a new research feature for its millions of users worldwide, while the Pokémon Trading Card Game enjoyed 42% UK growth in 2017, also picking up Pocket Money Toy of the Year at the Toy Industry Awards.

Wicked Cool Toys’ first Pokémon master toy range – distributed by Character Options in the UK and Eire – also hits retail in July.

Celebrity connections CAA-GBG Global Brand Management Group will be showcasing an array of properties and personalities.

These will include Jelly Belly, Jennifer Lopez, Cheesecake Factory, Coca-Cola, Crayola, Discovery Channel, Marie-Chantal, Mercedes Benz, Peanuts, National Trust, David Beckham, Playboy, Habitat for Humanity and Children’s National among others.

Booth G144

Below: Drew Barrymore has her own beauty and apparel ranges.

Booth C82 Left: The Van Gogh Museum is a first time exhibitor at Licensing Expo.

Monster smash

Booth G196 Above: Detective Pikachu has already launched on Nintendo 3DS.

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LICENSING EXPO PREVIEW

Cool collections

Inset: PJ Masks is going from strength to strength at retail.

Masked marvels Peppa Pig now boasts over 1,000 licensees globally and eOne is gearing up to celebrate the brand’s 15th anniversary in the UK and Australia in 2019 with a calendar of events.

This will be buoyed by a fresh pipeline of 117 new episodes, premiering on air from spring 2019 through to winter 2022.

Meanwhile, with annual global retail sales going from strength to strength, PJ Masks has cemented its position as a key preschool brand. Just Play’s global master toy line has garnered acclaim and helped to propel PJ Masks to the number one growth property in the US preschool toys sector last year.

Throughout 2018, the live stage show Time to be a Hero will further expand into North America, while a national Australian live tour is due to kick off in September and a themed attraction will open at Leolandia theme park in Italy next year.

Booth G196

Gallery gains Exhibiting on the Beanstalk booth, The National Gallery (represented in the UK by JELC) has recently revealed a collaboration with fashion retailer White Stuff.

The new high street clothing and accessories range will feature images of Van Gogh’s Above: The White iconic A Wheatfield, with Stuff collection consists of 11 pieces Cypresses and Long Grass with Butterflies paintings that are housed in the gallery.

The collection consists of 11 pieces and launched in select shops and online in May. It is also on display in the National Gallery shop for 12 weeks form the launch date.

Booth G156

Bulldog Licensing is presenting a strong mix of brands at the show this year.

These include Shopkins and Pikmi Pops, which is the latest collectable hit from Moose Toys, as well as Angry Birds and Care Bears.

In addition to this, bestselling touchy-feely board books for babies and preschoolers - That’s not my… - will be a key focus, as will trading card game Match Attax. Two animations from ZAG Studios – Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir and Zak Storm – will also be highlighted.

Booth E214 Left: Pikmi Pops is the latest collectable from Moose Toys.

Spy stories Targeting a wide range of ages, key initiatives for Fox Consumer Products at the show will include the latest instalment in the Predator franchise – The Predator – and Alita: Battle Angel.

Hopes are also high for Spies in Disguise from Blue Sky Studios, which will see Will Smith voice super-skilled spy Lance Sterling and Tom Holland as Walter, a scientific genius who invents the gadgets that Lance uses on his missions.

Merchandise including spy gear, games, books, puzzles, apparel, home, plush and vehicles will launch in early 2019.

FCP will also be marking the 25th anniversary of coming of age baseball movie, The Sandlot, with partners including New Era and Funko among others.

From the TV slate, Bob’s Burgers, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Family Guy and the sci-fi comedy drama series also created by Seth MacFarlane, The Orville, will be showcased. The Simpsons licensing also continues around the world, with recent highlights including a Krispy Kreme partnership across Australia.

Booth O200 Above: Spies in Disguise is the next big film from Blue Sky Studios.

National treasures National Geographic will be focusing on three areas with its conversations.

The first is on conservation and sustainable materials, working closely with manufacturers which are driving ‘new technology’ such as yarns from recycled plastics. The company is spearheading two large ocean initiatives – Pristine Seas and Sky Ocean Rescue.

Within consumer products and experiences, the company is looking at how it can mirror these initiatives through consumer trends and new technologies to the everyday consumer to limit the harm to our planet.

As well as the above, National Geographic is also looking to extend its focus in the kids market, expanding outside of publishing into relevant categories.

South Seas C Ballroom Right: National Geographic is looking to extend into the kids market.

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What a Picture Sony Pictures Consumer Products 2018 film licensing opportunities will celebrate the return of a number of hit franchises.

These include the Hotel Transylvania brand which will shortly welcome a third film: Hotel Transylvania: Summer Vacation. Other new opportunities include Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, the Men in Black spin off and Goosebumps: Haunted Halloween.

Sony’s library of classic films is gearing up for a number of big celebrations including Ghostbusters and The Karate Kid (both 35), Poetic Justice (25), Step Brothers (10) and Easy Rider (50).

Booth O214

Left: Hotel Transylvania: Summer Vacation will be one of Sony’s stars.

Full Power Pack leaders Staring as part of the TSBA Group booth, Top Trumps has gone from strength to strength since being relaunched by Winning Moves UK in 1999.

Top Trumps is It is the UK’s number one card Above: the UK’s number one card game brand. game brand – and is marking its 40th anniversary this year – and has also enjoyed growing success across Europe, the Middle East, Australia and the US. The gameplay is universally appealing and so are the themes, ranging from dinosaurs to cars, predators to STEM. Booth E114

Saban Brands is currently celebrating the 25th anniversary of Power Rangers, so it’s no surprise that the brand will be a key part of the company’s booth.

The TV series premiered with Right: Power Rangers is marking its 25th anniversary this year.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers on August 28, 1993 and continues to resonate with fans.

In addition to premiering the 25th series – Power Rangers Super Ninja Steel – the franchise recently confirmed its long time partnership with Nickelodeon will continue through 2021. The 26th series – Power Rangers Beast Morphers – is due to air in spring 2019.

Elsewhere, Saban and Funrise will also debut new animation Rainbow Butterfly Unicorn Kitty this year – a buddy comedy for kids staring Felicity who is part rainbow, part butterfly, part unicorn and 100% kitty.

Booth A159

Show ready Gaming giants Activision Blizzard has built up one of the largest portfolios of recognised video games brands, becoming one of the most valuable interactive entertainment companies globally.

Properties being discussed will include Call of Duty, Candy Crush, Crash Bandicoot, Destiny, Diablo, Overwatch, StarCraft and World of Warcraft.

Booth U202

Above: Call of Duty is among the big gaming brands on show from Activision Blizzard.

Teletubbies’ popularity continues to grow globally, with new TV episodes launching in the summer, supported by key retail and marketing initiatives.

Right: DHX is ready for another DHX Brands will also be successful Licensing Expo. showcasing In the Night Garden, with Golden Bear’s new toy range launching in autumn/winter, supported by strong retail activity. Its long running preschool live show will also hit its one millionth customer in 2018.

Sci-fi game show Massive Monster Mayhem combines live action and CGI with competition and comedy.

Following its US launch on Nicktoons in 2017, Nickelodeon will be airing series one across 140 territories throughout 2018. Master toy partner (excluding Asia) is Alpha Group.

Also new, Mega Man: Fully Charged launches on Cartoon Network in the US in the autumn, with Jakks Pacific on board as master toy. Finally, the Strawberry Shortcake brand is gearing up for its 40th anniversary in 2020.

Booth G204

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LICENSING EXPO PREVIEW

Speed demons Those visiting the SEGA Europe booth will be treated to a smorgasbord of Sonic and retro-themed products and platforms.

Leading the way is the upcoming release of Sonic Mania Plus, which will feature new playable characters and a new encore mode for additional challenge. In addition, the Above: The Sonic x PUMA collaboration will be PUMA prominent on the SEGA booth. collaboration will be a key focus, which sees the company reboot its classic 80’s Running System line featuring Sonic the Hedgehog.

Sticking with the retro theme, SEGA recently revealed an updated version of the Mega Drive/Genesis Classics collection is coming to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in May in a limited edition boxed version previously unavailable in stores. It comes with a double-sided Golden Axe and Streets of Rage poster.

The company also recently revealed a new customisable merchandise platform, www.segabyme.com.

Booth Q236

TSBA Group believes it has a stronger portfolio than ever and is preparing to take visitors underground with Transport for London and back in time with The British Museum.

It has recently signed Formula E, the electric singleseater street racing championship, and legendary British circuit Silverstone which is celebrating its 70th anniversary. Key focuses will also include F2 Freestylers, Iconic Images, Brix + Bailey and evergreen brand Top Trumps.

Right: TSBA believes it has a stronger portfolio than ever.

Start your engines Brandgenuity is continuing the expansion and management of the global licensing programme for the BMW Group, and this will be a key focus at the show.

In Europe, it is seeking partners to expand the Welch’s brand, while Hawaiian Tropic’s licensed range of fragrances continues to go from strength to strength in the UK, with new categories including gifting in development as the core range expands to new retailers, including Boots.

Other brands on display will include NFL Players Association, Fur Babies, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Oddbods and properties from MGM Studios.

Brandgenuity is also seeking licensing partners for Carmen Sandiego, the new animated series coming to Netflix in 2019.

Booth J122

The right Formula

Booth E114

Inset: Brandgenuity is revving up with BMW Group.

Global reach Global Icons will be marking its 20th year of exhibiting, with the past year having seen it adding new brands to the agency roster and Above: Global Icons will once again have signing up new a strong presence on the show floor. worldwide licensees.

Key properties will include Emirates, Ford, Hostess, Magic Chef and Turtle Wax, with executives from the UK and China offices also attending to underline the company’s global presence.

Booth G134

Great British brands BBC Studios (BBC Worldwide) returns to Licensing Expo with a strong array of brands.

Strictly Come Dancing will be putting on the glitz, considerably upping its licensing portfolio. Its first official board game with partner John Adam goes on UK-wide sale this summer. Meanwhile, Doctor Who will undoubtedly be a key attraction as excitement builds for the new series. Titan Vinyls has renewed its agreement with the UK and EMEA already and further new deals will be revealed in the coming months.

Hey Duggee is looking to build on the success it enjoyed in 2017, while BBC Earth will also be a big draw, with a UK and EMEA deal for plush toys secured with Whitehouse Leisure and more deals in the pipeline.

Booth N204 Right: Hey Duggee will be jumping into Licensing Expo.

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LICENSING EXPO PREVIEW

Streets ahead The focus for Sesame Workshop will be on Sesame Street and Esme & Roy, which will debut on HBO this year.

It’s been another busy period for Sesame Street: for starters a second show is touring with Feld Entertainment, while Sesame Place is debuting its newest coaster Oscar’s Wacky Taxi. A new book for adults will launch – The Joy of Cookies: Cookie Monster’s Guide to Life – while new collections are arriving from a wave of partners including Bioworld, Zara, PUMA, H&M, Mad Engine and Land of Nod among others.

Booth Q192 Right: It’s been another busy year for Sesame Street.

Striking brands Fingerlings currently has over 20 worldwide licensees and will form a key part of Striker Entertainment’s booth. It will line up alongside video game series Five Nights at Freddy’s – which has a live action feature film in development – plus the Exploding Kittens card game, We Happy Few Above: A film is in the works and Dead by Daylight video for Five Nights at Freddy’s. games, the mobile app Klepto Cats and virtual crane game Clawbert.

The company’s roster of TV properties includes upcoming Netflix series The Umbrella Academy, AMC’s The Walking Dead, Fear The Walking Dead, Preacher and The Purge TV series among others.

In addition, Striker will be introducing an upcoming stop motion film from Laika, the studio behind Coraline.

Booth M226

Japanese vibes Busy Sanrio will be showcasing key developments for the classic Hello Kitty property, while the quirky Gudetama brand is also sure to garner attention.

Also on display will be Chococat, My Melody, Badtz-Maru and Keroppi.

Booth Q202

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Above: Sanrio is set for a busy show.

Inset: INK’s booth will be partly branded with Zafari.

Animal magic The INK Group’s stand will be partly branded with its Zafari animation, which tells the story of a group of animals which have been born with an amalgamation of varying skins, patterns and characteristics. The series is also linked with the WWF, with each episode featuring a video aimed at educating viewers about wildlife and wild places on our planet.

INK will also present a number of other brands including: Masha and the Bear, Netflix hit Beat Bugs, new Russian animation Moonzy and Mojicons.

Booth F204

Southbank specials Leading the ITV Studios Global Entertainment slate following its launch at Brand Licensing Europe is Robozuna. The Netflix Original animated series follows 14 year old Ariston Above: ITV’s Expo slate features classics and new launches. and his homemade robot, Mangle. It will debut on Netflix around the globe in the autumn and in the UK on CITV. The consumer products roll out will follow the broadcast in spring 2019.

Watership Down will also be a key highlight – the four-part CGI animated mini series is a reimagining of Richard Adams’ classic 1972 novel and is a coproduction between the BBC and Netflix. Licensing opportunities will be available for the series in multiple categories, with some deals already underway.

Thunderbirds Are Go continues to expand its global footprint, with season three ready for launch along with a storytelling game app from Kuato Studios. Nostalgia brands including the original Thunderbirds, The Persuaders and The Prisoner will also line up alongside Oddbods, PINY, Village People, Poldark and Victoria.

Booth L204

CONSUMER PRODUCTS

©2018 Columbia TriStar Marketing Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Visit us at Booth O214 For licensing inquiries contact consumer_products@spe.sony.com

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LICENSING EXPO PREVIEW Inset: Nitro Circus is a fast growing youth entertainment brand.

Left: The Brand Liaison team is ready to welcome you!

Squad goals Licensing agency The Brand Liaison will be showcasing a wide range of properties.

These will include celebrities such as Kevin James, along with leading social influencers LaurDIY and Sofie Dossi. Fashion brands include Laura Ashley, Romeo & Juliet Couture, Gloria Vanderbilt and Live from America: Route 66 among others, while Tatty Teddy and Me to You are key properties in the company’s portfolio.

A range of art brands – including Hotchpotch, Debra Valencia and Jimmy the Bull – will be on show, while The Brand Liaison also consults manufacturers in connection with acquiring professional and collegiate sports licences including NFL, NBA and NHL among others.

Booth F154

Working it Licensing Works will boast a wide variety of brands on its stand.

The Little Prince will be a key focus, with the classic property celebrating its 75th anniversary. Meanwhile, Zorro is gearing up for its 100th anniversary in 2019 with a number of new adult-targeted licensees.

Another key focus will be Millimages’ Molang, while Puppy in My Pocket collectables from Just Play will continue with new licensing partners.

Also on display will be Tarzanimals, the Tarzan franchise’s first baby brand, plus Intellivision, Moulin Rouge – which is marking 130 years as the world’s most successful French entertainment venue - Kewpie and Rainbow Hedgehogs.

Booth U244

Circus feats Nitro Circus is one of the world’s fastest growing youth entertainment brands.

Founded by action sports legend Travis Pastrana, the company is currently expanding its global consumer products business, including products geared towards family and children.

There is a particular emphasis on sporting goods, toys, apparel, stationery, accessories and interactive.

Booth H80

Spotlight on success Spotlight Licensing and Brand Management is debuting several new properties at the show: The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady, the Sir John Soane’s Museum collection of art and artefacts, plus Watership Down.

The new properties will join the likes of Downton Abbey, The Great British Baking Show, The Ollie & Moon Show and Victoria, plus Boo the World’s Cutest Dog, Imperial War Museums, Little House on the Prairie and Vera.

Booth E128 Left: Downton Abbey is among the brands on show for Spotlight.

Above: A raft of Molang product will be on the Licensing Works booth.

Storm force The company behind Miraculous – Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir, ZAG will be showcasing its latest property: Zak Storm – Super Pirate.

Targeting boys aged 6-11, it is being pitched as the only modern day transforming super hero pirate brand. A range of toys with ‘digital enhancements’ for the free gaming app was launched by Bandai at the end of last year, with new skus scheduled for this autumn.

ZAG is looking to grow the programme further and is seeking partners in categories including publishing, games and puzzles, sporting goods, wheeled toys, apparel and back to school among others.

Booth A175

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Right: The toy line for Zak Storm launched at the end of last year.

CONSUMER PRODUCTS

TM & © 2018 Sony Pictures Animation Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Visit us at Booth O214 For licensing inquiries contact consumer_products@spe.sony.com

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LICENSING EXPO PREVIEW

I’m with the band Epic Rights, in collaboration with *NSYNC, is continuing to focus on developing a new line of branded apparel, accessories, gifts and collectables to celebrate the band’s 20th anniversary.

A retro line of 1990’s inspired fashion apparel and accessories will be among the offerings, while Epic Rights will also develop a lone utilising album covers, photos, logos and art for products such as fashion tops, t-shirts, accessories, electronics, seasonal and home décor.

Recent partners include Biowords, American Classics and Funko.

Meanwhile, August 2019 will see Woodstock mark its 50th anniversary, and Epic Rights has partnered with Perryscope to create a new logo and brand guide. Woodstock currently has over 50 licensees in categories including apparel, accessories, footwear, wall art, stationery and more.

Above: *NSYNC is marking 20 years

Booth A170

with official merchandise.

Italian flair Rainbow will be highlighting 44 Cats, Regal Academy, Maggie & Bianca Fashion Friends and Winx Club at the show.

44 Cats is a Rainbow Above: 44 Cats looks to production in collaboration promote positive, can-do attitudes. with Antoniano Bologna about four cat friends, which aims to promote positive, can-do attitudes in a funny environment.

Winx Club, meanwhile, mixes action and adventure with comedy for girls and Regal Academy looks to put a new twist on traditional fairy tales.

Three series of live action show Maggie & Bianca Fashion Friends have also aired, following the story of ordinary American girl Maggie and Italian princess Bianca.

Booth O192 Inset: Rainbow Rangers is due to debut in the autumn.

Sweet treats Boutique licensing agency Synchronicity will have a variety of brands on its booth at Licensing Expo.

These will include Jay@Play’s plush brand FlipaZoo, which has welcomed a number of new partners and the agency is looking to further extend this year.

Other Jay@Play brands available for licensing include Boxy Girls, Crunchimals and Wish Me. In addition, the Tootsie Roll Candy Brands will also be showcased across a range of categories.

Booth M194 Above: Product will be on display for the Tootsie Roll Candy Brands.

Shine bright Jewel Branding & Licensing is celebrating its tenth year in business and will be bringing a number of new clients to Licensing Expo from across the social media influencer and interior design spectrum.

These line up alongside existing clients such as New York Botanical Garden, Rachael Hale, Finlayson, Hang Ten, Bouffants & Broken Hearts, Lily & Val and Catalina Above: Bouffants & Broken Estrada among others.

Hearts lines up for Jewel Branding & Licensing.

Over the Rainbow Genius Brands International will be focusing on its new property, Rainbow Rangers.

The preschool series is due to debut in the autumn on Nick Jr, with the consumer products programme anticipated to begin roll out in spring 2019.

Genius Brands has already signed up almost 20 licensees including Mattel as master toy, Macmillan as master publishing and Bentex as master apparel. The company is also looking to expand into footwear, games, novelty, activity, back to school, boxed roleplay, room décor and consumer packaged goods.

Booth B134

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Booth H94

Four legged friends Appearing on The Brand Liaison booth, All American Licensing arrives at the show having expanded the Dog for Dog brand.

New licensees include The G-Mason Group for a line of pet products from crate mats and toys to training pads, plus Tzumi Pets for a range of dog food and treats.

Dog for Dog is a natural ingredient dog food, treats and dog toys and accessory products company. For every product sold, a monetary portion is donated to a dog in need.

Booth F154.

Above: The Dog for Dog brand is growing in the US.

CONSUMER PRODUCTS

©2018 Columbia TriStar Marketing Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Visit us at Booth O214 For licensing inquiries contact consumer_products@spe.sony.com

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PreschoolNews Advert 165 x 245_Layout 1 04/01/2018 16:20 Page 1 PreschoolNews Advert 165 x 245_Layout 1 04/01/2018 16:20 Page 1

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THE LIGHT FUND UPDATE

Our intrepid cyclists for The Light Fund are well underway with their training for the epic 325-mile bike ride from Bristol to Dublin.

LSB saddles up to find out more.

Hitting the road

ith the countdown well and truly on until this summer’s Bristol to Dublin 325-mile cycle challenge in aid of The Light Fund, our industry cyclists have been busy getting the training miles in.

The challenge begins on Tuesday June 12 with the 70 riders leaving Bristol and is due to end on Friday June 15.

The charity hopes to raise £150,000+ for the various good causes it supports.

Participants have been making sure they get the miles in, too, in the lead up to the challenge – even when away on holiday or for business in places as far flung as Australia and India.

Some have even embraced the idea of fancy dress, although there’s been a fair share of cuts, scrapes, and punctures along the way, too.

A group also took part in the Brewin Dolphin Ridgeway Rouleur Sportive in April, with a standard route of 60 miles and an ‘epic’ route of over 100 miles.

You can check out just some of the training pics on here.

W

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GOING GLOBAL

Inset: The joyful Hamsta World brand is represented in the UK

by Allsorts Licensing.

International flavour Licensing already has a firm global footprint, but with the growth of platforms such as YouTube and social media, there isn’t any country that a property feasibly can’t reach.

LSB highlights five brands from different territories and sectors of the licensing business which are busy making an impact on UK consumers.

HOLLAND: ANIMAL MAGNETISM The burgeoning Hamsta World brand all started in Holland when creator Saskia Keiser bought a dwarf hamster for her children.

It apparently made the family laugh so much with its personality, the midnight runs on the wheel and looking to find out what the family cat was up to, that it inspired Saskia to create a brand which has now started to attract attention across the globe.

In Benelux, Hamsta World has a wide range of licensees across apparel, toys, bags, stationery, partyware and accessories. There is also a meet and greet costume, while an official web shop is due to launch shortly.

Allsorts Licensing is the brand’s UK agent and has, so far, secured deals with Blue Sky Designs, Bioworld International, Ghost Licensing, Posh Paws and Whitehouse Leisure. Product will begin hitting stores from July, with the first retailer of note due to be announced during Licensing Expo.

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Jacqueline Hofman, director of international licensing at brand owner Happy Ink, says: “We introduced Hamsta at BLE in 2016, leaving everything open; we wanted to see what it did without being pushed in a certain territory. The first interest came from UK partners, with Italy, the US and Spain following directly after that.”

A steady stream of content on YouTube and social media has helped to build awareness, with Jacqueline believing that Hamsta’s bold statements are a key attraction. “In colouring and in tone, Hamsta’s perkiness combined with its bright colours leaves an inevitable smile on people’s faces,” she says.

By the end of 2018, Jacqueline would love to see a steady shelf presence with its selected partners.

“We do not aim to sign as many licensees as fast as we can, rather we try and find the best partners for the longer term,” she says. “I would be happy with a total of eight wonderful licensees by the end of 2018, but knowing Allsorts Licensing, their approach brings lots of surprises.”

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GOING GLOBAL

Inset: Masha and the Bear began airing on Tiny Pop in the UK last year.

RUSSIA: BEAR NECESSITIES Masha and the Bear is the original idea of show creator, Oleg Kuzovkov, who had developed the scenarios for the first eight episodes in his native Russia before the Animaccord studio was established ten years ago.

The show – which stars a mischievous little girl called Masha who explores the world and has many adventures with her friend, the Bear – attracted billions of views on YouTube and has a rapidly growing global broadcast presence on platforms such as Netflix.

MEXICO: A WORK OF ART

Vladimir Gorbulya, vp of Animaccord, enthuses: “We can clearly state that in its home territory, Masha and the Bear has become a true classic. It is the number 1 kids brand in its home territory (source: BrandTrends, October 2017, Popularity Index).”

As well as a three-year licensing drive, Vladimir explains that content has continued to be supplemented with new episodes and spin-offs such as Masha’s Tales and Masha’s Spooky Stories.

The brand is now growing steadily in the UK Lisle handles Masha and the Bear in the territory, while Ink Global looks after the property globally in the broadcasting and licensing spaces.

Partners include Simba Dickie Group (master toy in EMEA), Sambro, TVMania, Procos, Aykroyd & Sons and TDP Textiles. Since December 2017, Masha and the Bear has also been broadcast on free to air channel Tiny Pop (as well as Turner channels Cartoonito and Boomerang and Netflix).

“This was a huge game-changing factor, so that in 2018 and 2019 we expect a lot of new licensees and exciting partnerships,” says Vladimir.

“Frida Kahlo is an icon and an inspiration to people of all walks of life in Mexico, male and female, young and old,” says Maria Strid from Art Ask Agency.

“The fact that Frida Kahlo is such an internationally recognised iconic brand helps enormously with her appeal,” she adds.

The Frido Kahlo Corporation was created in 2005, with the iconic artist’s heirs transferring rights and IP to the company to help grow the brand. A portion of monies received from consumer products is contributed to community-based charitable organisations that are committed to improving the life of women and children.

Still the most highly rated female Mexican artist of all time, Frida’s continuing influence is underlined with the success of the recent apparel collaboration with fashion retailer Mango. Art Ask Agency’s Kirsty Satchel says that first stock sold out almost immediately, with restocking moving quickly thanks to apparel provider Europrosem.

Frida was also a prominent part of Mattel’s recent limited edition Barbie role models collection. Maria adds: “She was a strong woman, authentic and a woman in history. She was fearless and a role model for young girls and women today, which the market is crying out for right now.”

The upcoming V&A exhibition on Frida and her artworks also proves the UK appeal and general interest. Art Ask Agency is now looking to further expand the brand, with the personal care category being a particular target.

Below: Frida Kahlo will be the focus of an upcoming V&A exhibition.

LICENSING SOURCE BOOK EUROPE 2018

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GOING GLOBAL Below: Molang has already attracted a strong raft of early adopter licensees in the UK last year.

SOUTH KOREA: SPREADING HAPPINESS Korean artist Hye-Ji Yoon created Kawaii characters Molang and Piu Piu in 2010 for her personal blog, but that was just the start.

Molang and Piu Piu quickly gained awareness in Asia starring on instant messaging platforms such as Kakaotalk and Wechat, thanks to free stickers and emoticons.

French animation studio Millimages created a series of non-verbal TV episodes – which aim to explore Molang and Piu Piu’s everyday life and highlight the DNA of what the brand is all about: happiness, friendship and mutual respect.

Licensing Link Europe is handling the consumer products programme for the brand in the UK, with licensees on board including TOMY (master toy), Aykroyds, TDP Textiles, Roy Lowe & Sons, Smith & Brooks, Fashion UK/Global Licensing, Danilo, Hype Associates, Blueprint, Kennedy Publishing, DJ Murphy, Click Distribution and Whitehouse Leisure.

“We have a number of retailers who have just started to range – Primark, George at Asda, Hamleys, Harrods and independents have been the first to go, with more stores ranging Molang for this forthcoming autumn/winter season,” explains director Ian Wickham. “We are very excited with the potential and how positively Molang has been received.”

The aim for the end of 2018 is to make sure that consumers are fully aware of Molang as a property, with the early adopter retailers experiencing positive sales as a platform for growth for 2019, says Ian. By the end of 2019, there will also be 208 x 3’30’’ episodes, as well as three longer format specials, while a strong digital offer across all key social sites has been developed.

Above: Gift will be one of the first categories to launch in the UK for Tulipop.

ICELAND: POP MASTER

Quirky and original, Tulipop is inspired by the eclectic Icelandic heritage of brand founders, illustrator/creator Signy Kolbeinsdottir and ceo Helga Arnadottir.

The Tulipop characters and ideas are inspired by ancient fairytales and this will also translate into the product development, says Sarah Fletcher, md of Maximum Licensing, which is handling the growth of the CP programme in the UK. Gift will be one of the first categories to launch in the UK, while key categories will also include paper and stationery, as well as apparel, with a focused retail distribution to grow the brand organically.

A dedicated Tulipop YouTube channel launched last summer with the first English language series of 10 x 2’30” episodes written by Tobi Wilson (The Amazing World of Gumball) and just recently hit 1.5 million views. Thanks to its worldwide popularity, a further ten adventures were commissioned which will be available later this year.

A recent foray into the US market was also a success, with licensees across key categories launching exclusively at Hot Topic. In addition, Toynami’s Blind Box figures have been nominated for a LIMA International Licensing Award.

Sarah comments: “Tulipop is currently in a major period of expansion. Signy and Helga’s Above: Tulipop is inspired goal is for the Tulipop world to by the eclectic Icelandic reach and engage with people heritage of brand founders, globally on as many platforms Helga Arnadottir (left) and as possible. They always Signy Kolbeinsdottir. wanted to extend the world of Tulipop into animation so were thrilled at the response to our YouTube channel, and in five years the goal is to have brought Tulipop to territories around the world through a variety awesome merchandise, great content and gorgeous retail stores.”

Ian adds: “With the content and assets we already have and Millimages’ desire, enthusiasm and drive for Molang to become a significant global success, then we should be looking to achieve some really great things.”

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Inset: All the B&LLAs 2018 winners took to the stage joined by Richard E Grant (centre) host of the event and LSB’s Ian Hyder and Jakki Brown.

B&LLAs 2018 On Camera

MAKING THEIR MARK The third ever Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards (B&LLAs) event, which took place at The Dorchester on April 26, was a fabulous concoction of top brand owners, great retailers and wonderful suppliers.

LSB shares a flavour of a very memorable afternoon that celebrated all that is good about brand licensing.

Right: Happy Jackson’s Heather Flynn (right) with Crème D’Or’s Helen Johnson.

Below: LIMA’s incoming president Maura Regan jetted over from New York for the event and drew The Light Fund raffle, which raised £4,500 for the industry charity.

Above: Richard E Grant proved he was ‘on brand’ with his jacket lining to match his Jack fragrance.

Above: The ‘placecards’ for the event were attached to a bottle of Corsair eau de toilette while The Point 1888 provided the menu, that featured an Yvonne Ellen design.

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Below: Sanrio ladies in red! (Left-right) Sabrina Segalov, Martina Longueira and Jade Kellman.

B&LLAs 2018 On Camera

Below centre: Fresh from its Queen’s Award for International Trade, Santoro’s co-founder Meera Santoro (second left) with colleagues Jo Campbell (far right) and Jenny Gullon (far left) with Amscan’s Mel Beer.

Inset: Laura Tenison MBE, founder of JoJo Maman Bébé shared an honest, entertaining and inspiring story of how she has grown her retailing brand from nothing in her pre-lunch speech.

Above right: Endemol’s Alice Bernardi with Sambro’s Nikki Samuels.

Right: (Right -left) HEAD’s Giuseppe Faranna and Arne Wegmann with Volkeswagen’s Hauke Wilkens.

Below: (Left-right) Mordy Benaiah (Pyramid) caught up with Andrew Levy (Licensingpages) and Daniel Avener (formerly of CAA-GBG, new ‘home’ tbc).

Right: (Right-left) Monsoon’s Helen Donaldson, Gemma Saxon and Aswiny Uthayakumar.

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Find your hero

Wonder Woman Light courtesy of Paladone

Explore the newest selection of licensed products for your store at Autumn Fair this September.

The market is open for wonder.

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B&LLAs 2018 On Camera Right: Angela Farrugia (CAA-GBG) with Maurizio Macagno of Italian retail group, Pinko.

Below: (Left-right) Global Licensing/Fashion UK’s Mickey Mattu, Ashok Murugesan and Patrick Bailey with LSB’s Jakki Brown.

Right: The North London Military Wives Choir gave a truly wonderful performance just prior to the awards ceremony.

Below: Smiley’s Daniel McGeehan (right) with Scribbler’s Andrew Webb (left) and Kim Cullum.

Right: (Left-right) Bettina Koeckler (Deal Factory), Teri Niadna (Brandgenuity), Ashley Holman (Nickelodeon), Maura Regan (LIMA) and Simta Sawhney (Nickelodeon).

Below right: The goody bag was a hit with HTI’s Michelle Dalziel (left) and Amscan’s Mel Beer, who was beautifully co-ordinated with the bag!

Inset: Everyone was delighted with their goody bags, including (left-right) Bravado’s Alex Mitchell, David Boyne and Russell Fogden.

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BEST BRAND LICENSED FASHION ACCESSORIES OR LIFESTYLE PRODUCT OR RANGE

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Off the cuff: “This is truly amazing and unexpected. It was our first licensing project so this is really encouraging for the future.”

- Eva Rawson, design director, Knomo

V&A Bag And Accessories Collection Above: Konomo’s design director, Eva Rawson (second left) and Alice Molyneaux, senior brand licensing manager of the V&A collected the trophy from Steve Manners, CPLG’s executive vice president, sponsor of the award.

FROM KNOMO

Above: CPLG’s Steve Manners revealing the winner of the first award of the day.

BEST BRAND LICENSED HEALTH & BEAUTY PRODUCT OR RANGE

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Off the cuff: “We’re dead chuffed! It’s a great licence to work with.”

- Nicola McQuillan, product marketing director, H&A

Krispy Kreme Beauty Gifting Collection Above: H&A’s Nicola McQuillan, product marketing director (second right) and Holly Humphreys, licensing & marketing manager collected the trophy from Colin Porter, ceo of Joules, sponsor of the award category.

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FROM H&A

Above: Joules’ ceo Colin Porter opened the gold envelope and shared the winner with the audience.

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BEST BRAND LICENSED ADULT APPAREL PRODUCT OR RANGE

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Off the cuff: “This is so lovely. It was our first apparel deal, too and we have a second collection planned for spring/summer 2019.”

- Cathy Snow, licensing manager, RHS

Above: (Left) Helena Mansell-Stopher, director of UK licensing of National Geographic, sponsor of this category presented the trophy to RHS’ licensing manager Cathy Snow (second right) and Shereen Llewellin, licensing executive who collected the award on behalf of Coast.

RHS Flora Apparel FROM COAST Above: A delighted Cathy Snow (left) and Shereen Llewellin with the Coast trophy.

BEST BRAND LICENSED GIFTING PRODUCT OR RANGE

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER

Below: All smiles from Emma Puzey.

Orla Kiely Stationery Collection

Above left: Susy Smith, group editorial director of Hearst Magazines, presented the trophy to Emma Puzey, licensing manager of Wild & Wolf.

FROM WILD & WOLF

Off the cuff: “This is a result of all the hard work which has been put in over the years.”

- Emma Puzey, licensing manager, Wild & Wolf

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BEST BRAND LICENSED FOOD OR BEVERAGE PRODUCT OR RANGE

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Off the cuff: “It’s fantastic to win.

Tassimo and Baileys are a match made in heaven..”

- Serena Sibbald, vp brand development, Beanstalk

Baileys Coffee Pods FROM TASSIMO Above: (Left) Stephanie Freeman, global head of licensing of the TSBA Group, sponsor of this category presented the trophy to Serena Sibbald vice president – brand development, licensing and new business of Beanstalk who collected the award on behalf of Tassimo.

Right: (Left-right) Beanstalk’s Serena Sibald, Lisa Reiner and Katie Sharp with the trophy that was won for the Baileys Tassimo collaboration.

BEST BRAND LICENSED HOMEWARES PRODUCT OR RANGE

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Off the cuff: “This was a real collaborative effort with John Lewis; they were such a great partner to work with.”

- Alice Molyneaux, senior brand licensing manager, V&A

V&A Collection Above: Richard Pink, founder of Pink Key Licensing, sponsor of the category presented the trophy to John Lewis’ assistant buyers Lizzie Batchelar (far left) and Rosie Bick who were joined on stage by Alice Molyneaux, senior brand licensing manager of the V&A.

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FROM JOHN LEWIS Right: John Lewis’ Lizzie Batchelar (left) and Rosie Bick proudly hold the shiny trophy.

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BEST BRAND LICENSED CHILDREN’S PRODUCT OR RANGE

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER

Off the cuff: This is really exciting and a fantastic win.”

- Sasha Lerner, brand director CAA-GBG

Crayola X Charlotte Olympia colour-me in Footwear Above: Ian Downes, managing director of Start Licensing, presented the trophy to Sasha Lerner, brand director of CAA-GBG, who collected it on behalf of Charlotte Olympia.

FROM CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA

Right: Start Licensing’s Ian Downes prepares to open the gold envelope and reveal the winner.

BEST BRAND LICENSED CONSUMER HARD GOODS PRODUCTS OR RANGE

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Off the cuff: “It’s a really great collaboration and we are really proud of the range.”

- Grace Pantony, licensing director, Marshall Amplification

Marshall Wireless Multi-Room Speaker System FROM ZOUND INDUSTRIES

Left: Marshall’s Jon Ellery and Grace Pantony.

Above: (Far left) Adam Bass, director of Golden Goose, sponsor of the award category with Marshall Amplification’s managing director, Jon Ellery and licensing director Grace Pantony, who collected the trophy on behalf of Zound Industries.

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INSPIRED INNOVATION BRAND LICENSED PRODUCT OR RANGE

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER

Off the cuff: “The range has been a resounding success. Military Wives Choirs and CAA-GBG have both been so supportive and we’re really proud of it.”

- Julia Redman, head of buying, M&Co

Above: A stage full of happy people! (Left-right) As sponsor of this category, Discovery’s licensing contracts manager, Antonia Walker and senior sales, marketing and brand manager Charlotte Payne; M&Co’s chairman Steve Knott and head of buying, Julia Redman; Lisa Shapiro, CAA-GBG’s svp retail development EMEA with Trudi Savage, member of the North London Military Wives Choir and Richard Stringfellow, vice chair of trustees for the Military Wives Choirs.

Military Wives Choirs Homeware and Fashion Accessories FROM M&CO Right: M&Co’s Julia Redman and Steve Knott (left) with MWC’s Richard Stringfellow.

BEST HIGH STREET FASHION BRAND LICENSED RETAILER EXECUTION

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER

Off the cuff: “I’m thrilled to bits… again!”

- Julia Redman, head of buying for M&Co

M&Co

Left: A double reason for the M&Co team to smile – two trophies on the trot!

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Above: As category sponsor, Beanstalk’s managing director, Europe and Asia Pacific, Lisa Reiner (far left) presented M&Co’s head of buying Julia Redman and the retailer’s chairman Steve Knott with the trophy.

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BEST DEPARTMENT STORE OR MIXED RETAILER BRAND LICENSED EXECUTION

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Below: A second B&LLAs trophy for JLP’s Lizzie Batchelar (left) and Rosie Bick to take back to HQ.

John Lewis Above: Giles Andreae, co-creator of Happy Jackson, sponsor of the category presented the trophy to John Lewis assistant buyers Lizzie Batchelar (second left) and Rosie Bick.

Off the cuff: “To do the double is absolutely amazing. The competition in the category was very strong, so it’s great to win.”

- Rosie Bick, assistant buyer for John Lewis

BEST SUPERMARKET BRAND LICENSED EXECUTION

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER

Off the cuff: “It’s lovely to win.”

- Natalie Ackerman, licensing manager, Tesco

Tesco Above: Natalie Ackerman, Tesco’s licensing manager collected the trophy from The Smiley Company’s marketing director, Matt Winton.

Left: Tesco’s Natalie Ackerman proudly holds the trophy aloft.

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BEST SPECIALIST BRAND LICENSED RETAILER EXECUTION SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Off the cuff: “We’re really chuffed and surprised!”

- Kellie Wyles, head of exclusive brands, DFS

DFS

Above: (Far left) Teri Niadna, managing director of Brandgenuity,, sponsor of this category, presented the trophy to DFS’ head of exclusive brands Kellie Wyles (second left) and the retailer’s head of PR, Claire Rushton.

Left: DFS’ Kellie Wyles and Claire Rushton are proud as punch!

BEST LICENSED HERITAGE OR INSTITUTION BRAND

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Off the cuff: “It’s absolutely amazing to pick up three trophies! We’ve had an incredible year in terms of launches and this is a true credit to working with the right partners in the right areas.”

- Alice Molyneaux, senior brand licensing manager, V&A

Above: (Far left) Brand Licensing Europe’s brand director, Anna Knight, as sponsor of this category, presented the trophy to Alice Molyneaux, senior brand licensing manager of the V&A.

Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

Right: A very happy Alice Molyneaux!

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BEST LICENSED LIFESTYLE BRAND SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Far left: Dave Collins, co-founder of category sponsor PowerStation Studios presented the trophy to Poppy Lawton, licensing manager of Laura Ashley.

Left: Laura Ashley’s Poppy Lawton with the trophy.

Laura Ashley Off the cuff: “Laura Ashley is overjoyed to have won the Best Licensed Lifestyle Brand award. It is testament to the hard work of the licensing team and each and everyone of our licensing partners. Their dedication and hard work in ensuring that all our collections stay true to our brand and heritage is second to none. It is fantastic that the industry has recognised Laura Ashley in this way.

This was our first year attending the awards ceremony and we will be sure to enter again next year!”

- Poppy Lawton, licensing manager of Laura Ashley

BEST LICENSED NON-FOOD OR BRAND

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Below: A delighted Mara Verzé (left) and Claire McKenna.

Goodyear Off the cuff: “This is a team effort and we’re really proud. We can’t wait to share this with everyone at Goodyear.”

- Mara Verzé, licensing director, Goodyear’s agency, IMG

Above: Mara Verzé, licensing director and licensing executive Claire McKenna of IMG (licensing agent for Goodyear) collected the trophy from Angie Bryant on behalf of Those Licensing People, sponsors of the award category..

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BEST LICENSED FOOD OR BEVERAGE BRAND SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Below: A proud Angela Farrugia.

Jelly Belly Above: (Left) Helene Lens, senior brand manager of Corsair, sponsor of this category, presented the trophy to Angela Farrugia, EVP, group managing director of CAA-GBG, licensing agent for Jelly Belly.

Off the cuff: “Over the last 16 years of representing the Jelly Belly Brand – we have constantly pushed the boundaries and they have been a brilliant partner. We now have unveiled our Jelly Belly ice-cream stores in Dubai - and the bar has been set even higher.

It’s a privilege to represent Jelly Belly and we are incredibly proud that they won this award” - Angela Farrugia - EVP group managing director of CAA-GBG

BEST LICENSED FASHION OR TALENT BRAND

SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER Left: A glowing Sara Miller.

Sara Miller Off the cuff: “This is overwhelming and I’m very proud.”

- Sara Miller

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Above: (Left) group commercial director of Spring and Autumn Fairs, Mandy Cluskey, sponsor of this category, presented the trophy to Sara Miller, founder of Sara Miller London.

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THE BRAND LICENSING AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR SPONSORED BY

2018 WINNER

Above: Richard Pink, founder of Pink Key Licensing collected the Brand Ambassador award from Denise Penn, director of business development EMEA of Octane5/Brandcomply, sponsor of this award category.

Richard Pink

An except of the speech that Jakki Brown, joint managing director of Max Publishing (owner of the B&LLAs) gave, which culminated in the award being presented: “The Brand Ambassador award is a really special accolade as it is so personal – and what’s more I can absolutely promise you that the recipient whose name is on the trophy has no idea that in a few minutes they are going to be up here on stage, recognised by all their peers.

The Brand Ambassador Award is for someone who has done an incredible amount for this community, much of which has gone on behind the scenes, but without their input the industry would not be in the great shape it is today.

Today we recognise someone who has been a true ambassador for this sector for many, many years.

Our winner cut their teeth in this sector by joining one of the world’s leading FMCG companies and really got under the skin of what true brand values are. Over almost two decades they showed, in a myriad of different ways, how these brands can be leveraged at a consumer level through licensing and promotions.

While very at home with global corporate brands, they could see an opportunity to facilitate so many other great IPs in realising their potential through licensing and so 13 years ago set up their own agency focused on brands and talent. But this is only half the story as, in tandem with building his own business, he has given inexorable time and input in raising awareness and credibility of brand licensing by working with respected trade bodies for no personal gain I can really vouch for the latter as over the years of running the Licensing Awards, the B&LLA and our other B2B awards, we have totally trusted this special individual, asking them to chair committees, safe in the knowledge that everything would be kept above board and the right results would be arrived at.

It has been wonderful to watch how they and their business have flourished over the years, their bold yet calculated decisions to go after brands that were hitherto virgins on the licensing front have paid off for retailers and licensees alike.

The fact that they have been instrumental in four of the finalists in today’s B&LLAs is testament to their acumen and vision.

He is a true example of how you can be a really decent and caring chap as well as a savvy business brand licensing expert, it gives me great honour to announce the Brand Licensing Ambassador 2018 is Richard Pink, founder of Pink Key Licensing. Pinkey please come and accept your award.”

Off the cuff: “I’m truly honoured to win the Brand Ambassador award at the B&LLAs and so proud to be part of an industry where your competitors are also your friends. I honestly believe that the agents and licensees involved in Brand licensing really can show what it is possible to do with a brand to make it innovative and take it to places the brand owners would never expect.

There are so many friends that I’d like to thank who have supported and encouraged me, but I particularly want to thank Nancy for making such a difference to what Pink Key does.

The B&LLAs get stronger every year, as does the industry and I’m so happy to be a part of it.”

- Richard Pink, founder of Pink Key Licensing Below: A quite rightly, truly proud, Richard Pink with his trophy.

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FOCUS ON… PEANUTS

Inset: The Peanuts Global Artist Collective comes to life on the streets of New York.

Going Nuts for Peanuts Peanuts began in 1950 as a comic strip, syndicated in just seven newspapers in the US. Today, nearly seven decades later, it is a robust global brand, known and beloved around the world through social media, publishing, TV specials and movies, and consumer products.

With murals popping up around the world and licensing storming ahead, LSB felt it timely to find out what’s new with Charlie Brown and co.

I

t’s been a very busy time for the Peanuts brand over the last couple of years. In June 2017 DHX Media acquired the entertainment properties from Iconix Brand Group, which included 100% controlling interest in Strawberry Shortcake and an 80% controlling holding with Peanuts (the remaining 20% interest is with members of the family of Charles M. Schulz).

And, in just January of this year CPLG was appointed to

Inset, right & far right: Snoppy apparel from Zara.

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represent the brand in the UK, France, Turkey and Greece, building on its existing programmes in Iberia and MENA. 2015 was a particularly big year for the brand – it was the 65th anniversary of the comic strip, the 50th anniversary of A Charlie Brown Christmas, and, of course, the release of The Peanuts Movie.

“The Peanuts Movie in particular, provided us with a new way to get in front of kids and introduce them to Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the gang,” kicks off Melissa Menta, svp marketing and communications at Peanuts Worldwide. “What's great about Peanuts, is that even 68 years into its tenure, it's constantly reinventing itself in the licensing world - and that's a testament to the genius of Charles Schulz and what he created.”

So why decades on and with plenty of other cartoon characters nipping at its heels is Peanuts still so universally popular? The answer is simple according to Melissa: “Peanuts is a brand that appeals to all demographics – young and old, boys and girls. Charles Schulz imbued his characters with universal, human truths, and that is what makes it so appealing today.”

Maarten Weck, CPLG md for Northern Europe concurs, adding that: “Peanuts is very active in making sure their brand is on trend. They

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FOCUS ON… PEANUTS

realise this by trendy style guides, great worldwide collaborations and very cool special projects.”

One such recent special project is The Peanuts Global Artist Collective. Peanuts Worldwide has partnered with seven fine artists from around the world and invited them to reimagine the beloved characters in public art installations around the world.

“Over the last several months, fans in seven global cities have been able to view some of this unique art in public murals,” explains Melissa.

“Going forward we will see the project expand into other areas that we aren't able to announce at this time. What we can say is that phase one, the public murals, is only the beginning.”

Peanuts Worldwide also recognises that new content will be a strong driver for the brand. “Now that we are a part of the DHX Media family we are exploring new avenues for content, but when it comes down to it, our social media channels are one of the key ways we are able to stay top of mind and in front of fans every day,” says Melissa. “Projects like the Peanuts Global Artist Collective or our global touring exhibit, Snoopy and Belle in Fashion, also keep the brand fresh and speak to different demographics.”

Closer to home, Maarten reveals that there are currently 20 local partners in the UK and the brand

Inset, right & far right: Snoppy apparel from Zara.

Below left: Snoopy plush.

has a vast number of global deals/DTR deals which are represented in the UK. “Apparel continues to be a key category with various best in class licensees on board the programme all being supported by the compelling continuous global collaborations who want to be part of the Snoopy story,” he says.

Since January, Maarten and the team have experienced “huge excitement for the brand”.

“We will already be announcing at least seven new partners in the next month which is testament to the strength of the brand and demand from retail. Outside of apparel we are looking to expand further into homewares and gifting categories, but have also had strong interest in FMCG categories,” he adds.

And in other territories…

Pau Pascual, md of Iberia and MENA, CPLG: “We’ve been representing Peanuts for more than 18 years now and we represent the brand in Spain, Portugal and recently we expanded to Middle East and North Africa.

We have 30 licensees across multiple categories. From apparel, footwear and accessories to plush and a great publishing programme. Our regions are mainly driven by apparel and fashion so our main partnerships are our DTRs with Inditex Group but also with other big retailers,/ such as Women’Secret or Mango.

CPLG was somewhat a pioneer in bringing the first DTRs to the region and Peanuts has always been part of such long-term partnerships.

Our goal is to consolidate our core consumer and expand to the others. We’re launching a national ‘Peanuts baby basket’ campaign which is going to be shared across hospitals, midwives and doctors for all pregnant women and new-borns.”

Joachim Knoedler, md of France and Germany, CPLG: “In France, the brand is already visible across a number of fashion collaborations with capsule collections at Eleven Paris and Paul & Joe with further ranges planned for this year, plus a collaboration with Parisian label Swildens launching in the summer. In addition to fashion collaborations, we are continuing to develop a more classic licensing programme though back to school collections, publishing, apparel and gift, as we prepare for the 70th anniversary of the brand in 2020.”

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STATE OF THE NATION: BRANDS

Brand Matters

Right: St Pancras IPA was delivered in a horse-drawn dray.

Below: The iconic St Pancras arches are immortalised in this Moorcroft pottery.

From YouTubers to famous railway stations, there is plenty going on in the world of brands, as LSB finds out.

Esquire moves into the home Esquire has partnered with Fine Furniture Design to create the 50-piece Esquire Home Collection. The new range collection which features 38 pieces for the bedroom, dining room and living spaces including an entertainment unit, three-drawer chest, bookcase and Above: Esquire partners with Fine Furniture console. There are also 12 Design for a 50-piece complementary pieces including furniture range. bar stools, dining chairs, and more.

Developed in collaboration with the editors at Esquire, the collection encompasses a broad range of styles and materials with just the right blend of gender-neutral design elements to broaden its appeal to both men and women alike and serve the diverse aesthetic tastes of today’s modern consumer.

Goodyear Races Into Pet Category Goodyear has introduced its first line of canine pet accessories in a deal brokered by IMG. The Goodyear Pet Accessories Collection draws on the brand’s rich heritage in producing high quality, durable accessories that are robust and fit for purpose. It includes a rubber chew toy which not only stands up to excessive chewing, it also cleans teeth and massages your pets gums helping to prevent gum disease.

The new collection also includes the portable pet travelling bowl, the hammock seat cover and a pet harness.

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All aboard for St Pancras celebrations St. Pancras International kicked off its 150th birthday celebrations in style with a horse-drawn dray delivering St Pancras IPA (brewed under licence by Lost Rivers Brewing Co) to The Betjeman Arms pub located under the station’s iconic roof. The pub's clientele drank through the first stocks within 36 hours and bottles of the beer, which recall the station’s historic links with the brewing industry, will shortly be available from other retail outlets within the station and further afield.

The launch of the St Pancras IPA was picked up by BBC and ITV London news, the Times and the Telegraph with total media coverage judged to have reached in excess of 16million people.

Other planned activity for the 150th celebration includes a product launch by Moorcroft Pottery, producers of renowned Stoke-on-Trent collectable ceramics, of two very different pieces inspired by the station, and a new book ‘St Pancras International 150 Facts for 150 years’ that is being prepared by The History Press.

In addition, online shop partner Internova and pop-up shop partner Event Merchandise will be rolling out new products to celebrate the anniversary, with immediate plans for a framed stamp sheet, framed then and now images, glassware and china, with further product development throughout the year.

Easter on wheels

Below: A VW Campervan offered a different take on Easter.

Volkswagen partnered with Kinnerton this Easter to launch its first range of brand-themed chocolate, in a deal brokered by IMG. The brand’s first confectionery collection, specially designed for Easter, featured products inspired by Volkswagen’s iconic Campervan, including a hand-decorated, milk chocolate moulded Campervan, available exclusively from Marks & Spencer.

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STATE OF THE NATION: BRANDS

RAF deals ensure centenary take off IMG has brokered a raft of new deals to help the RAF celebrate its 100th anniversary.

The RAF100 licensing programme consists of Breitling watches; Royal Mail stamps; Belstaff aviator jackets; Royal Mint and Westminster Collection commemorative coins; a coffee table book by Carlton Books; chinaware by William Edwards; tea towels and canvas bags by Ulster Weavers; toy models by Hornby Hobbies; stationary and souvenirs by the Portfolio Group; and aviation-inspired luggage and tags by Globe-Trotter. The collections will be launched throughout the year in recognition of the RAF’s centenary year.

Air vice-marshal Mike Wigston, assistant chief of the air staff, said: “RAF100 is about raising awareness and understanding of the Royal Air Force across a range of different audiences, especially those we have less contact with than we would like.

Above: Royal Mint will launch a range of five coins Linking the RAF brand to other iconic brands through the RAF100 licensing including this one depicting the Red Arrows.

Above right: Breitling is introducing a limited edition programme provides a great opportunity to do this as we commemorate our past, collection of luxury RAF100-inspired watches. celebrate who we are and what we do today, and inspire the next generation.”

Inset & right: Joël Robuchon and Jiro Ono helped celebrate the 160th anniversary of Japan-France diplomatic relations.

Foreign relations Sony Creative Products has jointly hosted a special event for the star French chef Joël Robuchon, Jiro Ono, the greatest sushi craftsman alive, and the master calligrapher Juichi Yoshikawa.

Held at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Tokyo, and jointly hosted by SCP and restaurant owner and food supply company Four Seeds Corporation, the event celebrated the 160th anniversary of Japan-France diplomatic relations.

SCP believes there is a strong market for events building on the popularity of living legends and plans to develop live events in a number of countries based around high quality personal brands linked to legendary figures in their fields.

Above: Chupa Chups doughnuts will roll out across key countries.

Above: New limited RHS limited editions from Moorcroft.

Hole in one for Chupa Chups Perfetti Van Melle, has partnered with leading European food group, Vandemoortele, to create a range of doughnuts under the lollipop brand, Chupa Chups.

The doughnuts launched in spring in France, Belgium and the Netherlands, with more countries rolling out later in the year. Products will be available across all major distribution channels and online. The agreement was brokered by Perfetti Van Melle’s brand extension agency, Beanstalk.

Marta Ballesteros, licensing area manager at Perfetti van Melle, said: “We are very pleased to partner with Vandemoortele. This is a great project that will bring innovative products across Europe and our loyal consumers will enjoy the sponge texture of the doughnut with crunchy Chupa Chups on top.”

Moorcroft grows with RHS The Royal Horticultural Society has announced that Moorcroft, a leading name in the world of art pottery, has produced three new additions to its RHS Rose Bouquet Collection, a line of art pottery designs inspired by roses.

The three new limited edition items are: A Whiter Shade of Pale, a vase with a design highlighting the elegant Alba Semi-Plena rose; Mutabalis, a clock with a design based on the Mutabilis rose, which colour varies as it changes by the hour; and Mermaid, a jug with design inspired by the climbing Mermaid rose.

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STATE OF THE NATION: BRANDS

Sofie’s feeling social

Inset: Maurizio Distefano is to focus on fashion brand, Chic and Love’s core brand values for licensing.

Maurizio Distefano signs Chic & Love Maurizio Distefano has been appointed to manage licensing for new fashion and accessories brand Chic & Love for Italy, Canton Ticino, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and the countries of former Yugoslavia.

The Chic & Love brand focuses on the concept of affordable luxury, combining street style with an avant-garde look. Thanks to a partnership with Swarovski, Chic & Love incorporates Swarovski crystals into many of its collections.

Maurizio Distefano’s agency is planning to develop categories including apparel, back to school, greeting cards, smartphone covers, mugs, watches, jewellery, lingerie, umbrellas, tech accessories, decorations and bed linen among others.

The link with Swarovski will be a strong feature of almost all licensed output.

Royal Selangor partners with British Museum The British Museum has revealed a new collaboration with Royal Selangor for a collection of homeware and personal accessories.

The pieces have been inspired by the rich artistic legacy of the early Europeans and features a wide range of design inspirations from the Iron Age, AngloSaxon, Celtic and Viking cultures.

Items include a tea caddy inspired by the Sutton Hoo helmet; a tankard which takes on delicate animalshaped motifs from one of the BasseYutz flagons unearthed in France; a vase; letter opener; pendant; photo frame; cufflinks; trinket box; valet tray; and a candle stand.

Material gains

Social influencer Sofie Dossi, best known for her golden buzzer winning performance on America’s Got Talent, has selected licensing agency The Brand Liaison to represent her Inset: Sofie Dossie brand for licensing, chooses The Brand Liaison for licensing. endorsements and brand extensions.

First categories to licence will include a range of activewear and stretch denim.

The Brand Liaison will also seek partners in the health and beauty arena. Additional categories will include back to school products and teen accessories, such as backpacks, school supplies and other teen favourites.

Smiley is a hit at Carrefour The Smiley Company has held another successful loyalty promotional campaign at Carrefour stores throughout France. The deal, which was brokered by Smiley partner Cartamundi, created innovative and engaging content as part of a cross category promotion with one of the world’s leading FMCG companies in one of Europe’s leading retailers.

To be in with a chance to win with Smiley, Carrefour customers who purchased a minimum of three cross category products from the Unilever range could register their receipt at the bespoke microsite created for the campaign. Once registered, the customer spun the special Smiley slot machine for a chance to win one of thousands of prizes including 1,600 Smiley Premiums, €100 Unilever vouchers, high tech €200 Carrefour vouchers and a holiday as the dream prize.

Participating customers also had access to an exclusive Smiley online game, while the campaign was backed by POS in-store and a special digital hub set up for the duration of the promotion.

Right: Corsair extends Material Girl range.

Iconix Europe has unveiled the first body mist range for Madonna’s Material Girl brand developed for the European market by Corsair in a deal covering Europe.

Initially launching exclusively to Boots and Superdrug customers in the UK and Ireland, the nine fragrances reflect the attitude of the original Material Girl – bold, fun, feminine and fiercely independent.

Daisy Laramy-Binks, vice president brand operations at Iconix Europe, commented: “We have seen rapidly increasing consumer interest in our brands targeting the millennial audience. These consumers know what they want, have an appetite for new products and are open-minded to trying new brand offerings.”

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FACE TO FACE WITH… PLATINUM FILMS Inset: Just some of Bear’s adventures include conquering Everest at the age of 23 and paragliding over the Himalayas.

Wild at heart His shows have attracted a worldwide TV audience of 1.9 billion viewers and he’s collaborated with a raft of famous faces to join him on adventures – from Hollywood stars through to a US President. Now, Bear Grylls is working with Platinum Films on a new animated adventure series which will also deliver huge opportunities for the licensing business. LSB finds out more.

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e’ve all watched on TV as BAFTA winner Bear Grylls – adventurer extraordinaire, survival expert, writer and Chief Scout – takes some of the world’s best known figures on incredible adventures, including the likes of President Barack Obama.

But imagine actually joining Bear on one of his adventures – which have included paragliding over the Himalayas, conquering Everest at the age of just 23 and having a dinner party at an altitude of 25,000ft. One man who has been given just a taste is Nigel Stone, ceo of Platinum Films. But then, when you’re working with the man himself on a new animation, stepping into Bear’s mindset has to be a vital part of the process.

Bear has enjoyed an impressive worldwide TV audience of 1.9 billion viewers, firmly establishing himself as a global icon of adventure. Now, Platinum Films is working with Bear Grylls Ventures to create a new action packed animated adventure showcasing the boyhood exploits that made him the man we know today.

The Bear facts • Bear is the youngest ever Chief Scout • There are now 53 million individuals in the Scouting organisation worldwide • Bear’s shows are broadcast in over 200 territories • The shows feature a wide range of people – including the likes of President Barack Obama, Roger Federer, Julia Roberts, Kate Winslet, Will Ferrell and Channing Tatum • Bear has sold over eight million books globally • He also has a bestselling children’s book series in China

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Inset: Platinum’s Nigel Stone (pictured left with Bear) has experienced first hand what it’s like to go out with the survival expert.

The announcement of Bear Grylls Young Adventurer last year understandably garnered significant press attention. The story focuses on a 13 year old Bear who, unknown to all but his closest school friend, is the most recent recruit of a covert organisation dedicated to rescue missions in wild and exotic locations around the globe.

Though gifted with an inherent zest for discovery and adventure, his raw talent and improvisational skills will be put to the ultimate test on these high-stakes missions. He’ll have to overcome the harshest terrains and most demanding conditions on the planet, unleash his inner adventurer… and still get his homework in on time.

Bear himself explains further: Left: The licensing programme will reflect the show’s core values of adventure, lifestyle, action, cool, functional and fun.

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FACE TO FACE WITH… PLATINUM FILMS Right: Bear Grylls Young Adventurer tells the story of 13 year old Bear.

“I think that this series is all about bringing the spirit of adventure and exploration to young kids in a way that fires their imagination and brings out the survivor in them all.

“What’s great is that it’s funny, translatable and thrilling at the same time; it instills values that are important for everyone – to follow your dreams, to succeed through failure and to never give up – but is also takes kids on epic adventures in far flung places around the globe.”

Bear continues: “Bear Grylls Young Adventurer is inspiring, exciting and unique, but above all it Platinum highlights is rooted in fun, friendship and survival. All vital As well as its work with Bear, Platinum Films has also been busy continuing to build the Matt Hatter things for kids.” brand, as well as reimagining classic preschool show, Nigel is keen to stress that the show will present Dream Street. a positive role model for boys and girls. He says: Matt Hatter: Rise of Primal is a new TV movie which “Bear’s kindness, his courage - these are the is due to air internationally throughout 2018. It had its global premiere on CITV in April. qualities I would want in a hero of one of Matt Hatter is also due to make its first appearance our shows.” in the Chinese market, with a dual Chinese broadcast Of course, there is a big opportunity on the planned for later this year. In addition, an all-natural commercial side, too. The licensing programme, range of Matt Hatter drinks is currently in development for global launch this year.

Nigel continues, will reflect the show’s core values: Meanwhile, Platinum Films has reimagined its adventure, lifestyle, action, cool, functional and BAFTA nominated classic preschool show Dream fun. He adds: “It’s therefore essential that our Street for a new generation of children, using ‘roto-morphing’ techniques and CG enhancements partners embody these key pillars and drive while keeping the emotion, characterisation and stop innovation in the products they produce.” motion feel of the original.

Another key aspect will be on the digital side – enter Paul Brunton, former head of studio at We are Bionic, who will be heading up Platinum’s new “I am excited to explore new partnerships with digital division, Giant Pixel. His remit is to develop other experienced studios within the digital sector, the global digital strategies across Platinum’s IP, so look forward to speaking with them at but with a primary focus Licensing Expo.” on Bear Grylls Bear encourages teamwork, Young Adventurer. adventure, shared experiences and Paul tells LSB: “Our aim the outdoors, Paul explains, so this is to create original and mantra will underpin everything groundbreaking digital Platinum undertakes across the content for Bear’s digital category. millions of fans - both “Connected play, Augmented and children and adults. Have Virtual Reality are very much the no doubt, his universal buzz words within the digital sector, Inset: Paul Brunton (left with Nigel) is heading up appeal and the new but it is clear that this brand lends Platinum’s new digital division, Giant Pixel. animated TV show will itself perfectly to these mediums deliver huge opportunities within the licensing from gaming and experiential through to sector and the digital space as well. education, for example,” Paul adds.

“My role is to build long-term relationships with It’s clear this is an ambitious and exciting ambitious partners and I will work very closely project for the team at Platinum Films, and one with them to activate our digital strategy to bring which the licensing business should keep a very value and success to all parties. close eye on indeed.

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BRAND FOCUS: NERF

Above: NERF has 76% share of the blaster category.

Blasting Ahead Next year the NERF brand will be a staggering half a century old – not bad for a product that started its life as a foam ball in 1969. Now sold in over 120 countries globally, LSB loaded up to find out what darts NERF has still yet to fire.

“With more than a 76% share of the blaster category, NERF has consistently stayed at the forefront of toy and play technologies by re-imagining, reinventing and re-igniting the way consumers play. The ‘It’s NERF or Nothin!’ slogan has resonated well across all NERF segments ensuring the highest of quality performance, power and quality for consumers and fans,” explains Holly Oldham, director (UK, Nordics & South Africa) consumer products for Hasbro.

So how has a toy brand transcended the toy aisle to become a kids’ lifestyle brand? Part of the answer to this continued strength lies in the power of social media. “NERF actively engages ‘NERF Nation’,

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Above: The NERF Nation social community is amplifying the brand message.

Below: NERF aims to solidify itself as a top lifestyle brand of choice for children aged 7-14, says Holly.

a social community full of fan bloggers and consumers, via Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter,” affirms Holly. “To date, the brand has more than two million fans from 135 countries on Facebook and over 600K fan videos featuring NERF product posted with over 14B views.”

Hasbro is understandably proud of the brand’s penetration globally - according to NPD, NERF was the number one toy brand in the US in 2017 and the number two toy brand in the G10 markets (Source: The NPD Group / Retail Tracking). “NERF in particular has a global audience which provides us the opportunity to bring immersive experiences to our fans,” says Holly.

“One experience we recently announced is a partnership with Kingsmen Creatives to launch NERF Family Entertainment Centers across Asia Pacific with the first opening in Singapore in 2019.

This will be Hasbro’s first, standalone family entertainment center, featuring multiple activity zones, merchandising and food and beverage areas that will engage and entrench all family members into the fun and action of the NERF brand.”

2018 is a key year for the NERF brand in the UK, particularly as we head into

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BRAND FOCUS: NERF Below: New products from Smith & Brooks.

autumn and winter. The latest licensee signings tap into NERF’s vision to empower kids of all ages to engage in active, social and exhilarating play and will span four key areas. First up is NERF licensed gear with branded apparel, footwear and outdoor products and sports through a partnership with Smith & Brooks. Due to its massive success, Hasbro is confident in expanding the partnership to include NERF daywear, nightwear, footwear and accessories with the first phase launching content promises to be September 1 2018. fundamental and Hasbro Looking ahead to 2019, plans to interact, support Smith & Brooks will and amplify NERF Nation’s additionally offer branded content NERF sporting/outdoor through social channels toys including bikes and activations. and scooters.

Toy innovation will also be Commenting on the key to the growth of the partnership Hamish brand and NERF plans to continue to be at the Morjaria, md of Smith & Brooks, said: “We are forefront of toy innovation through new delighted to be working with Hasbro on the technologies and designs. Developing beyond toy development of multiple categories for the NERF products, NERF also looks forward brand. When we were first presented with the to new licensee partnerships opportunity, we were most to launch new consumer struck by how much loyalty products like apparel, footwear customers have to the NERF and consumer integrations past brand across age groups. That the toy sector. Not forgetting, brand loyalty is of course, the launch of demonstrated not only location-based by the $1bn annual entertainment with the NERF consumer product spend, Family Entertainment Center but even more impressive is launches. “We are excited to bring the NERF the depth and quality of the brand to life with these types of immersive user generated content that experiences for consumers in targeted locations to you can find. That for us was the experience the world of NERF,” real eye opener as to how 2017 NERF Nation at a Glance enthuses Holly. strong the brand really is.”

429k followers on Instagram So as NERF heads towards its NERF will also be building 2.4 million Facebook fans in 135 countries big 5-0, can the brand still be on its pre-existing 99% of YouTube videos are fan generated nifty at fifty? “As NERF relationship with Jazwares continues to evolve and prosper, the brand aims to with high-quality branded accessories and solidify itself as a top lifestyle brand of choice for wearables to amplify the NERF experience. Thanks children aged 7-14 and longer term we aim to to a partnership with Amscan, the NERF brand deliver over $1 billion in incremental sales of new also promises to be big in the party sector too and categories,” promises Holly. “Through the has additional plans to grow into the consumables development of additional licensees and products, and homewares market. we aim to have NERF continue to be the leader in The 50-year milestone in 2019 promises to be a the toy blaster category and we’re looking forward key landmark for the brand, but Hasbro isn’t resting to expanding its success into new segments. We on its laurels. According to Holly, in the years ahead are definitely excited by all that is to come in 2019 NERF will be focused on four key elements to with NERF’s 50th anniversary.” maintain its successful growth pattern. Branded LICENSING SOURCE BOOK EUROPE 2018

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LSB AWARDS A5 DPS Cats (NEW USE) 2018.qxp_Grid 10/01/2018 18:02 Page 76

To enter the 2018 Licensing Awards go to www.thelicensingawards.co.uk Tuesday September 11 2018

The Great Room, Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London, W1K 7TN Black Tie/Posh Frocks!

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The Retail Award Categories Best Pre-School Retailer of Licensed Products (0-5) Best Kids Retailer of Licensed Products (5-16) Best Retailer of Adult Licensed Products The Radar Award- For retailers that have upped their Licensing activities in the last year Best Licensed Retail Execution Top Retailer Award

For ticket information Clare Davies, Createvents Ltd, 450 Brook Drive, Reading, Berkshire RG2 6UU T: 01183 340085 F: 07769 905959 e-mail: clare@createvents.co.uk Supported by Specialist Communication & PR Consultancy

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The Product Award Categories

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Best Licensed Toys or Games Range Best Licensed Dress-up or Partywear Range Best Licensed Preschool Apparel Range Best Licensed Childrens Apparel Range Best Licensed Adult Apparel Range Best Licensed Written, Listening or Learning Range Best Licensed Paper Products or Stationery Range Best Licensed Giftware Range Best Licensed Home Décor, Tableware or Housewares Range Best Licensed Food or Drink Range The Innovation Award

The Licensed Property Categories

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Trend: Feelgood Brands Right: Smiley started out as a code for feelgood stories, but continues to expand throughout all product areas.

Feelgood Vibes Gender neutral, trans-generational, embraced by all the sociodemographic groups. The feelgood wave of happy, mindful, uplifting brands are spreading their own breeds of happiness to great effect in this scary old world of ours. LSB cuddles up for a dose of wellbeing.

A

ccording to the findings of the current ONS Happiness Index, the average Brit, when asked to rank their ‘happiness’ out of 10, would put themselves just over three quarters of the way up the happy tree - at 7.92.

Meanwhile, as was highlighted by Mental Awareness Week (which was marked May 16-24), one in four of us will suffer from mental illness, including depression, severe anxiety or stress, at some time in our lives.

While not disastrous, and there are certainly those a lot worse off elsewhere in the world, there is room for improvement.

Above: Emily Coxhead, the creator of The Happy News with some of the Widdop and Co products.

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Thankfully there is a growing happy bunch of licensing brands out there that are proving great therapy for sharing joy, spreading happiness and encouraging wellbeing.

You only need to look back at the origins of the iconic Smiley brand, that was created over 40 years ago, to recognise the value of surrounding ourselves with brands that lift the spirits. Back in 1971 journalist Franklin Loufrani hit upon the idea of including a smiley face as a way to indicate to readers of the French newspaper France-Soir which stories contained good news. The Smiley Company, headed up by Franklin’s son Nicolas has continued this essence through a myriad of licensing activities.

Matt Winton, marketing director of Smiley Company says that “happiness is an evergreen trend” but suggests that the recent boom in positive brands is probably “a reaction Above: Some of the Happy Jackson confectionery products from to a lot of the Kinnerton. negativity around our lives today. Certainly Brexit has acted as a massive trigger to a tidal wave of negativity in UK society and ever since then deep divisions have become more apparent socially.”

As the original emoticon, Smiley has been in a prime position to benefit from this, as evidenced by its recent signings, including with licensees Tache, Blueprint, Moonpig, Kinnerton, Tikiboo and hip streetwear brand Ami. On the DTR retail front Primark has launched a major cross generational collection, while a million Smiley pieces have sold through Zara in the last 12 months.

While Happy Jackson may not have as long a heritage as Smiley, nonetheless this uplifting

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Trend: Feelgood Brands

Reed-ing into the thoughts

Coxhead, creator of The

Happy News. What started ‘Simple cartoons conveying a soulful message’ is how Charlotte Reed sums up May the Thoughts Be out as a free newspaper With You. Based on Charlotte’s own hand-drawn featuring only true, positive illustrations coupled with her uplifting philosophical stories interspersed with messages, have already done a lot of good for many people – including Charlotte herself.

Emily’s illustrations and Sparked by her own journey out of depression, messages, has now Above: Emily Coxhead, the creator whe she decided to draw and write a positive of The Happy News with some of spawned a licensing message each day as part of her own self-therapy, the Widdop and Co products. programme (handled by Charlotte’s May the Thoughts Be With You brand is now being licensed out by Larkshead Media.

DRi). What’s more, Emily’s book, Make With Danilo’s launch of its greeting cards and calendars, a Someone Happy published by Penguin second book deal for in the offing which will form the basis of a Random House, has received a very big film about her journey, the Evening Standard publishing one of the brand’s cartoons every week, not to mention Charlotte’s thumbs-up, including from Richard appearances in connection to her ambassadorial role for Branson. mental health charity Mind, ‘Thoughts’ are most definitely It was impossible to miss the bright translating into actions. yellow tuk-tuk on Widdop and Co’s Charlotte says that she is “genuinely so happy” that licensed products, such as the cards and calendars are stand at the Spring Fair, Below: Shoeless Guru is one of the launching, “so that they can help people to most popular characters from May festooned with its Happy News the Thoughts Be With You. think more positively and spread awareness range of gift products or walk of mindfulness.” lifestyle brand, co-created by Giles Andreae and Heather Flynn broke new ground with its joyful pitch both in editorial flavour and colourways when it launched a decade ago.

With an eye-popping new colour palette now percolating through on the licensee front – having debuted on greeting cards from Pigment at the start of the year – and with the plans for a major product launch in the States well underway with IG Design Group and Leanin’ Tree, the brand’s positive vibes are rippling wider.

With his ‘claims to fame including having created Purple Ronnie, Edward Monkton and World of Happy, Giles Andreae has something of a pedigree in ‘feelgood brands’.

“It’s something that I’ve always done naturally.

Both Heather and I love the energy that an upbeat voice and design idiom allow us to work in.” He sees the proliferation of uplifting concepts, as healthy for our psyche.

“It is pretty scary out there at the moment. The fact that people are more honest about wanting to say how they feel about their friends and family is a good thing,” he says.

Someone whose infectious positive demeanor should be bottled and Above: Giles Andreae and Heather Flynn, dished out by the co-creators of Happy Jackson sharing a NHS is Emily happy moment.

past the colourful displays on Blueprint’s and Pigment’s stands without noticing their respective collections of stationery/accessories and greeting cards.

These join the greeting cards from Pigment and Moonpig as well as dated products from Portico with other deals in gestation.

When asked where Emily feels the nation is now on the happiness scorecard she feels we still have some way to go. “I think we’re slowly getting better, but it’s tough to be happy in a world that doesn’t profit from our happiness. We’re often made to feel like we’re missing out, whether that’s the latest gadget or scrolling through social media… we’re all very easily sucked in.” As to what advice she would give of how we can all get on that sunshine yellow tuk-tuk of life, Emily adds: “I think it’s important for us to step back and remember what actually makes us happy and do more of that.”

Below: Emily Coxhead in the Widdop and Co Happy News tuk tuk.

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STATE OF THE NATION: SPORTS Inset: Beautifully crafted products.

As the sporting world turns its attention to this summer’s FIFA World Cup, LSB looks not only at England’s licensing efforts ahead of the tournament, but also a host of other exciting sporting initiatives.

Sporting life A first for Royal Ascot Karen Millen has become Ascot’s first ladies apparel partner, in a deal brokered by IMG, Ascot Racecourse’s global licensing representative. The 18 piece co-branded occasionwear, in collaboration with Ascot Racecourse and inspired by its flagship Royal Ascot race meeting, will launch for spring/summer.

The collection will be sold across Karen Millen’s global network of stores, online and on-site during Royal Ascot in June, supported by a global marketing campaign with flagship window displays. The pieces will be marked for the Royal Enclosure or the Queen Anne and Village Enclosures, in line with Royal Ascot’s dress code.

Karen Millen is partnering with Ascot alongside the prestigious racecourse’s existing licensees, including long-established British brands such as Links of London, Christys’ Hats and Christy Towels.

Tim Smith, licensing director, IMG, said: “With fashion being at the core of any day at Ascot, we are delighted to have signed Karen Millen as the brand’s first official ladies apparel partner. Karen Millen fits perfectly into our strategy of building Ascot into an international lifestyle brand, ensuring beautifully crafted products and multi-channel accessibility for shoppers and guests around the world.”

Extreme Sheffield!

Growth for NBA

Above: New Era expansion.

Fanatics International, the official NBA Store ecommerce operator in EMEA and selected countries in APAC, has acquired the rights to manufacture adult and youth fan apparel, as well as accessories within both regions.

This summer, the brand will launch various tees and hoodies with creative interpretations of the NBA’s team logos and fan accessories such as lanyards, key chains and towels. In addition, New Era - the NBA’s official oncourt headwear partner - has expanded its rights in EMEA to men’s apparel and will launch a unisex set of NBA team tanks, tees, shorts and hoodies inspired by beach culture this summer. Product will be available on NBAStore.eu and New Era’s retail stores.

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Inset: Harnessing Extreme appeal.

Following a competitive bidding process, Sheffield Council has appointed the EXTREME Destinations-led consortium to develop, launch and operate a 48-acre, $30.5million longterm sustainable EXTREME branded world class sports, leisure and accommodation solution at Parkwood. The agreement between Sheffield City Council and EXTREME Destinations, incorporates a partnership with leading UK facilities operator Continuum Attractions, the UK-wide operations company.

Opening phase one in 2019, EXTREME’s brand and destination experience will be developed on the old ski village site and surrounding area bringing hundreds of jobs to the city. It will incorporate a combination of action and adventure sports facilities, including the possibility of an indoor sky diving facility, live music, EGaming and virtual-reality hub, as well as restaurants, bars, social spaces, retail and themed accommodation.

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Dorna Sports strengthens MotoGP In advance of Licensing Expo, Dorna Sports has announced a raft of new and renewed licensing initiatives.

In the UK, Dorna Sports has partnered with KitKase to produce a MotoGP-branded cabin case which will be available in May. In addition, long-term official calendar licensee, Pyramid has renewed its agreement for a year coinciding with the launch of the 2018 MotoGP Official calendar.

Red Bull has confirmed the launch of a new special promotion limited edition MotoGP design on the Red Bull cans, plus six-pack packaging, available in Austria for the six weeks over the August dates of the Grand Prix.

MotoGP continues to renew licensing agreements with key partners including We Play Media to develop and update the official and first free to play mobile MotoGP game for mobile and wireless platforms and interactive game licensee Milestone to develop and publish the new MotoGP Official video games for PlayStation4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and Windows PC/STEAM from June.

In addition, Scientific Games will continue to licence MotoGP instant lottery scratch cards and games to lottery operators worldwide.

Right: New for the 2018 season.

Merchmaker’s Premier personalisation Merchmaker, provider of officially licensed merchandise with an on-demand print model, launched its own range of personalised Easter Eggs earlier in the year with Premier League teams including Manchester City and West Ham. In partnership with Above: Personal to you.

The Entertainer, Merchmaker will also be rolling out a Premier League football range on its Create Your Own platform. Customers will be able to personalise their own officially licensed branded football clothing, homeware and accessory merchandise with a name.

The range launches with Manchester City, Tottenham, Chelsea and West Ham with others likely to follow.

Two Italian giants come together Rainbow Group has released details of a major new collaboration with Italian football giant Juventus, acting as the club’s agent for consumer products rights across Russia and CIS. The new deal brings together two of the biggest names in Italy: Juventus, best known for its black and white jersey, is the longest sports property ownership of 94+ years, by Agnelli Family since 1923 and Rainbow with its global reach, responsible for establishing and licensing some of the biggest brands in the world.

“This agreement with a relevant partner such as Rainbow represents a further strategic step in the creation of an international network of licensing agents representing Juventus in the world,” said Luca Montesion, licensing manager at Juventus FC. Above: A strategic step for Juventus and Rainbow

Paul Lamond Games launches Nanostars Paul Lamond Games is working with a number of leading football clubs on its Nanostars construction range in time for Above: Football in the summer’s World Cup. miniature from Paul Lamond.

Licences include Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Officially Panini As fans from around the globe prepare for the world’s biggest football event, Panini has announced the launch of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Official Sticker Collection.

Panini, a brand synonymous with football, has been creating FIFA World Cup sticker albums since 1970 and the 2018 album is sure to get collectors in the spirit of the tournament. The collection includes all 32 teams competing at the event and includes more than 670 stickers, 50 of which are special.

Above: An unparalleled guide.

Hammers head west with CAA Sports West Ham has announced a new partnership deal with CAA Sports - the sports division of leading entertainment and sports agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA) - to represent and expand licensed product in North America.

New licensees already signed and in development include 47 Brand (headwear, winter accessories and apparel), Team Blocks (fan subscription boxes) and online retailers Sports Endeavors (apparel) and Café Press (apparel, homewares, drinkware and accessories).

Above: Celebrating success Stateside.

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S M L S The SporTS MerchandiSe & LicenSing Show 2018

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MONDAY 12 NOVEMBER 2018 STAMFORD BRIDGE

WHY YOU SHOULD EXHIBIT: Showcase your products and services to representatives from a variety of worldwide sports organisations Discuss business opportunities with target customers, whether you are a well-established or start-up company Catch up with existing industry contacts and meet many new ones too Enjoy the iconic backdrop of Stamford Bridge, the home of Chelsea Football Club Make the most of your trip and take advantage of discounted room rates at either of the two onsite hotels

To book a stand or find out more, visit:

SPORTSMERCHANDISEANDLICENSINGSHOW.COM

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FACE TO FACE WITH: THE FA

Lion hearted

Inset: The 2018 Nike England Collection.

Below: The FA’s Charlotte Hughes.

After an unbeaten qualification period, England will be beginning its 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign with a strong retail and licensing programme. Fans will be able to support the national team through a wide range of officially licensed products across many retail channels, including new products and new licensees welcomed on-board. LSB chatted to the FA’s Charlotte Hughes to see what’s in-store off the pitch.

K

Panini, as the official collectable icking off what will be a partner of Wembley Stadium, number of World Cup continues to go from strength to product launches, Nike strength with its popular sticker and launched the Official 2018 England trading card collections.

Collection, including a new home kit in “The official FIFA World Cup March and an away kit to follow.

Collection was launched in March Charlotte Hughes, licensing partnerships with a range of activations to kick manager at The FA, elaborates on the things off, including in-stadium design: “The outfits will be worn by all 28 album giveaways and sampling at England national teams, and the new the pre-tournament friendlies, sticker designs are rooted in Three Lions history packets on match day programmes and strong while embracing Nike’s latest gamepromotional support across major retail changing kit innovation.”

Above: The FA’s strong The home kit is a classic look of white shirt, partnership with Panini. and social channels,” continues Charlotte.

The Official Adrenalyn Trading Card blue shorts and white socks, while the away Below: Ready to roar!

Collection will launch in late May, with fans kit is a two-tone red design with white given the opportunity to further build up shorts and red socks. The shirt is their collections, also seeing the return of dominated by a tonal graphic that the #gotgotneed hashtag. Panini is also depicts a modern St. George’s cross. working closely with SoccerStarz to A wider England Collection includes a launch a 2018 England collection of range of training products, including a the two-inch smash-hit football pre-match top which is a nod to the collectable from Creative Toys Company, Three Lions’ 1982 look. The kits, training which will be available in a variety of wear and Official England name and forms, including blister packs. number (Sporting ID) is available to Meanwhile, in the gaming space, the FIFA 18 purchase across retail channels, including franchise, from EA Sports, fully licensed with Senior Englandstore.com and Wembley Stadium outlets, England Men’s players, will have great exposure with a range of activations in place to promote.

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FACE TO FACE WITH: THE FA

and exciting marketing activations planned to mark the tournament. “Gaming and digital products Inset: Playmobil joins remain an important area for the FA licensing the programme.

Below centre: Lidl is programme, providing fans with additional supporting England. touchpoints and ways to interact with the players,” Charlotte adds.

In the first of a series of new licensing partners, Playmobil has been welcomed on board as a new licensee for the tournament, and has launched the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia collection featuring nine national teams, with a kick-functioning England player and a replica arena available. Ecell Global has launched an official range of England licensed mobile accessories, including phone and Aykroyds and TDP Textiles will see the launch of tablet cases, plus power adaptors. In addition, fresh designs in nightwear product supported Merchmaker will be working with retailers to across retail. The England retro range, by licensee provide personalised product through its online Score Draw, continues to see strong success with merchandise platforms. increased distribution, and a new Charlotte is quick to point out capsule England Navy collection of the important role that retail heritage inspired polo shirts and track plays with the England licensing jackets launches exclusively for the programme. “Demand and independent retail market. Outside of visibility of official product at apparel, Forever Collectibles will be retail has gained prominence bringing its new product Brxlz, including across the country with Lidl, a constructable England player, to retail Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, and available in Tesco stores in the buildPrimark, Asda, Sports Direct, to up to the tournament. name a few, all stocking Official With the international appeal of the England England Licensed product,” she says. A number of team, Charlotte highlights the importance of products from key licensees - ranging from reaching these fans. “Building on the growth of the footballs (Hy-Pro) to gifts and souvenirs (Forever international licensing programme, EZ Shop Collectibles) - have been launching in stores International, an Asian e-commerce and retail nationwide from May onwards. football specialist, has taken on the rights to run “Apparel is a driving category,” says Charlotte and merchandise promotions in malls across Hong to this point, VF Imagewear Majestic, has created Kong and China, through May and June,” she says. exciting new ranges across adult, kids and “As the excitement to the tournament builds, we babywear to suit every fan and price point. Lidl, the can also look ahead to exciting opportunities which official supermarket for the England team, is just present themselves in the coming months and one of the grocers supporting the World Cup years for all of our England teams,” observes campaign with a range in-store from May. Charlotte. These include the FIFA Women’s World Alongside this, a long-term partnership with Cup France in 2019, which will see our Lionesses on the global stage, with product opportunities to complement, as well as Wembley Stadium connected by EE hosting seven games at UEFA Euro 2020, including the semi-finals and final.

“As the governing body of English football, these licensing partnerships enable The FA to invest in developing more opportunities for people of all ages to play at the grassroots, as well as Inset: Available for the connecting fans with their England heroes,” summer new product Charlotte concludes. from VF Majestic.

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Beano Studios through its digital network offers a huge number of touch points for kids to engage with the characters and content with over 4 million followers across all platforms!

The new Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed 52 x 11 TV series currently airing on CBBC is the highest rated show across all kid’s TV at launch in the UK! Launching throughout international territories from Autumn 2018

Set in Beanotown; a larger than life location it’s a world full of bold action, adventure, mischief and laughs, where mates matter most Aspirational and full of fun Adventurous Locations Gadgets Galore!

For blamtastic Licensing opportunities please contact: Angeles Blanco Tel: 0207 400 1071 Email: angeles.blanco@beano.com

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AW 18 LAUNC H TTVV PPR ROOMMOOTE TEDD

TRANSFORMING FIGURES

The #1 Role play Item* Top 5 Action Figure Brand* 2.3M UK Downloads on SVOD Platforms (Q4 ’17) 6.8M UK views for Ben 10 Content on YouTube (Q4 ’17)

CREATION CHAMBER

NPD February ’18 Month Only 8

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emoji® is a registered trademark of the emoji company GmbH. © 2015-2018 emoji company GmbH.

VARIETY JOY CREATIVITY SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS QUALITY

23/04/2018 08:27

emoji® is a registered trademark of the emoji company GmbH. © 2015-2018 emoji company GmbH.

The emoji company is the owner and operator of the emoji® brand that is globally protected in up to 25 classes for goods and services in more than 100 countries around the world.

Altogether the firm owns more than 850 trademarks and more than 10.000 registered icons and characters protected under applicable copyright laws and available for legitimate licensing and merchandising, promotions, loyalty programs and marketing activities of any kind.

The emoji company works with more than 550 renown global licensee and partners include corporations such as Ferrero, The Inditex Group, Sony Pictures Animation, Global Brands Group, Kipling, Cotton On Group, Walmart, Mango, Pull & Bear Target, DeFacto, Koton, Urban Outfitters, Primark, Unique Industries, Fuji, O2, Nikon, Nestle, Kellogg’s, Tesco, Danone, Target, Burger King, C&A amongst others.

The emoji company is positioned on place 71 in the Top 150 Global Licensors List and the emoji® brand has been named the 3rd most influential brand in 2017 according to Licensing.biz Powerlist 2017.

For Licensing please contact: licensing@emoji.com For more information visit: www.emoji.com

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2019 Celebrating

20 years

New style guide available

Magic Light Pictures Get in touch to find out how you can join in the celebrations!

licensing@magiclightpictures.com

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NEW FOR CHRISTMAS 2018

© J Donaldson/A Scheffler. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd.

SPEAK TO MAGIC LIGHT FOR LICENSING OPPORTUNITIES

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HEY DUGGEE™ and character logos™ & © Studio AKA Ltd 2014. Licensed by BBC Worldwide Ltd. BBC logo ™ & © BBC 1996.

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THE MULTI BAFTA AWARD-WINNING

Over 100,000 fans on Facebook

2017 Children’s BAFTA winner for Pre-school Animation!

New category launches in 2018

Series 3 has been greenlit

For all licensing queries please contact bbcw.licensing@bbc.com

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2017 BAFTA Award for ‘We Love Animals’ App

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Be inspired by the past to design and create product for today Historic Royal Palaces is the independent charity that cares for the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Banqueting House, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace and Hillsborough Castle.

Famous around the globe, these palaces attract over 4 million visitors a year and include a UNESCO world heritage site.

Our licensees have access to Britain’s rich royal history with inspiration taken from the best designers, craftsmen and architects of their day; Peter Paul Rubens, Jean Tijou, Christopher Wren and William Kent to name but a few‌ To find out more about how your licensing programme can benefit from the scope of inspiration our palaces have to offer please contact: Email: Licensing.hrp.org.uk Tel: 0203 166 6844

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FOR MORE INFORMATION: UK Licensing: Naome Jones +44.203.618.6552 Gaming & Digital Licensing: Bill Kispert 818.777.5446 Publishing: Siobhan Harkin +44.203.618.5539 Live Entertainment Licensing: Carol Nygren 818.777.9507

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Executive Producers Steven Spielberg and Colin Trevorrow will reunite with stars Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard for the follow-up to one of the biggest blockbusters in the history of cinema, Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Jurassic World sequel.

Producers Frank Marshall and Pat Crowley once again join Spielberg and Trevorrow in leading the team of filmmakers for the next chapter in the franchise.

THEATRICAL RELEASE

JUNE 2018 $1.57B GLOBAL BOX OFFICE GLOBALLY DOMINANT BRAND 4TH HIGHEST GROSSING FILM OF ALL TIME

ONE OF THE MOST

GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED LOGOS

2ND HIGHEST

INTERNATIONAL GROSSING

FILM OF ALL TIME

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© 2018 DHX-Mega Monster Productions Inc. MASSIVE MONSTER MAYHEM and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of DHX Media (Toronto) Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

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Ross King

Appa

r larges el is the t catego licensed r You a y for Me t nd is o +27%currently YOY

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Over 1 million pieces of plush sold each year

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known by all ages

The Me to You

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For more information on licensing opportunities please contact Sarah.Quigley@cbg.co.uk, Head ofof UK Licensing please contact Sarah.Quigley@cbg.co.uk, Head Licensing

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(Cyan) (Magenta) (Yellow) (BlacK)

24/04/2018 12:37

la

me

A classic evergreen brand that appeals to parents and grandparents alike The perfect nursery and preschool gifting solution Engaged fan base with

250k subscriptions

Over 750k units of baby apparel sold in 2017 Successful brand partnership with Uniliver

Plush, bags and stickers

launched into the wider market in 2017 Juvenile age and lenticular animation cards launched in 2017

A total of 25 designs of cards will be available by the end of 2018

Multiple competitions

featuring Dinky to run throughout 2018 in girls magazines

Launched on apparel in Autumn 2017 exclusively with a key retailer

57,000 units of nightwear and 35,000 units of plush sold in 2017 Online competition had a total reach of 24.5k

@CarteBlancheGrp

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+44(0)1243 792600

www.cbg.co.uk

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Miffy by Tiamo

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Miffy simply iconic

Come visit us Licensing Expo Booth M204

miffy L.V. cafe Engaging & Irresistible © Mercis bv

info@mercis.nl www.miffy.com

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‘Miffy and Friends’ © copyright Mercis Media bv, all rights reserved

63 years brand heritage world-wide broadcasting partners own Miffy museum, own artist studio, own theme parks global retail footprint

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Brand Licensing at the National Gallery, London Our licensing programme, featuring images of some of the best known paintings in the world, continues to grow from strength to strength.

New additions this year include: • The National Gallery x White Stuff fashion and accessories range launching in May, available in White Stuff stores across the UK • Savoir Beds, renowned for supplying The Savoy, London’s first luxury hotel, have created luxury bed designs in collaboration with National Gallery images Continued international expansion: • We have appointed Alfilo Brands as our Master Licensee, representing our brand in China • Our product launches in Japan start in April • A new stationery range will launch in Russia in Q2 We’re expanding existing categories including food gifting, homewares, accessories and stationery, with continued success with Santa Rita Chilean wines and Fulton Umbrellas launching additional SKUs in Q2.

Join us as we continue to develop and expand into new sectors and regions, with some of the world’s most recognisable paintings.

Jan van de Cappelle, 1626–1679, A Shipping Scene with a Dutch Yacht firing a Salute (detail), 1650 © The National Gallery, London

PROPERTY

National Gallery Company Ltd London LICENSING AGENT

STAND

G156

JELC Ltd jane@jelc.co.uk • jane.evans64 (skype) +44 (0)1225 819030 • www.jelc.co.uk

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Over the past 130 years, National Geographic has never wavered from its commitment to explore ‘the world and all that is in it’.

Support from people like you help us advance science, exploration and innovation to further the world.

DISCOVER FOR YOURSELF AND COME ON A JOURNEY WITH US.

FIND US AT: SOUTH SEAS BALLROOM C FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT HELENA MANSELL-STOPHER ON +44 (0) 7973 849389 OR EMAIL HELENA.MANSELLSTOPHER@NATGEO.COM

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,

Copyrights@2018 National Geographic Partners, LCC.

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P L

Visi at stat us n e214 d

Š2018 Moose. All rights reserved.

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Property Licensing Agent

Pikmi Pops Bulldog Licensing ltd Metal Box Factory, Unit 335, 30 Great Guildford Street, London SE1 0HS Tel: +44 (0) 20 8325 5455 Email: info@bulldog-licensing.com www.bulldog-licensing.com

Pikmi Pops, the new collectable from Moose distributed

by Flair, is continuing it’s amazing start in the UK since it launched on Boxing Day! The cute scented plush characters come packaged in a lollipop with a variety of a suprises.

No.1 New Brand in the Market* Sales are tracking above Shopkins for the same point in its lifecycle.

Entered the Top 10 Bestselling Items in the Market (value) on February NPD, in only its second month on the market.

A heavyweight marketing campaign from Flair is in full swing with TV, press, online, unboxing, Popjam, retail support and the Pick Up a Pikmi Pop retail tour has already started! *March NPD

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More than 300 million Pokémon video games have been sold worldwide.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game is the num ber one best-selling tradin g card game in Europe (NPD, strategic card game category).

The Pokémon animated television series has more than 900 episodes and is beginning its 21st season.

Pokémon GO has been downloaded more than 800 million times worldwide (Niantic Inc., December 2017).

For Licensing opportunities, please contact: Harris McQueen Licensing Manager, UK h.mcqueen@pokemon.com

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Wicked Cool Toys’ first Pokémon toy range, distributed by Character Options in the UK and Ireland, will be hitting retailers later this year.

Jessica Nioncel Licensing Associate, UK j.nioncel@pokemon.com

4/20/18 7:25 AM 23/04/2018 08:30

UKLIC

7:25 AM

The Detective Pikachu live-action movie, directed by Rob Letterman, is currently in production in the UK and slated for a May 2019 release.

New action-adventur e title Detective Pikach u was launched for the Nintendo 3DS™ family of systems on 23 March 2018.

According to License Global Magazine’s May Top 150 Global Licensors, Pokémon was ranked as the number one single-IP entertainment company (May 2017).

®

©2018 Pokémon. TM, Nintendo.

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At Smiley we pride ourselves on creating the hottest on trend seasonal designs that leverage our brand DNA, by making the world a happier place.

Our award winning teams work directly with you to co-create collections that spread a Smile and drive your revenues forward.

For Spring & Summer 2019, Smiley Studio has introduced over 600 graphics and 37 new individual style guides across 13 product categories, in order to extend unrivalled design support to our partners across multiple industries around the world.

Ready to tap into our latest best-selling style guides, contact us at sales@smiley.com

smiley.com

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Ja Em Te

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FOR LICENSING OPPORTUNITIES, VISIT US AT THE LICENSING EXPO STAND Q236 OR CONTACT: EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA:

US, CANADA & LATIN AMERICA:

REST OF THE WORLD:

Jason Rice Email: jason.rice@sega.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 208 996 4568

Anoulay Tsai Email: anoulay.tsai@segaamerica.com Tel: +1 (747) 400 2410, ext.203

Shigefumi Tanzawa Email: shigefumi.tanzawa@sega.com Tel: +81 3 6871 7122

www.sonicthehedgehog.com/uk

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@Sonic

@sonic_hedgehog

/sonicthehedgehog

/sonic

©SEGA

17/04/2018 13:32

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FOR MORE INFORMATION UK Licensing: Hannah Mungo +442036186553 Gaming and Digital Licensing: Bill Kispert 818.777.5446 Publishing Licensing: Siobhan Harkin: +442036185559 Live Entertainment Licensing: Carol Nygren 818.777.9507

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THEATRICAL

LICENSING AWARDS

£25M

HOME ENTERTAINMENT

RELEASE WINNER 2017: OCT 2016: BEST FILM PROPERTY

RELEASE FEB 2017 TV HOLIDAY SPECIAL: NOV 2017 UK BOX OFFICE

EXTENSIVE NETFLIX TV SERIES LAUNCH: MARKETING CAMPAIGN JAN 2018 FOR 2018

(4 X CONTENT DROPS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR)

TV SERIES FTA LAUNCH: COMING SOON!

TROLLS 2

THEATRICAL COMING 2020

™ & © Universal Studios.

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LICENSEES

Ă“

Licensees LICENSEES

Licensees are partners (usually manufacturers or retailers) who obtain a licence from the licensor to make and sell products bearing the licensed character or brand.

The following section is devoted to purveyors of licensed products and those whose products might be suitable for licensing.

If you are a retail buyer reviewing licensed products available or a licensor looking for new products for your licences, read on.

160

LICENSING SOURCE BOOK EUROPE 2018

Party Products Apparel

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Children’s Apparel

Jurassic World is a trademark and copyright of Universal Studios and Amblin Entertainment, Inc. Licensed by Universal Studios.

All Rights Reserved.

R

DAYWEAR NIGHTWEAR FOOTWEAR ACCESORIES & BAGS

For more information please contact info@fashions-uk.com BM Fashions (UK) LTD, 11 St Georges Way, LE1 1SH Office: Tel: 0116 2762929

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Bedding

CHARACTERWORLDUK

CHARACTERWORLDUK_

W W W. C H A R A C T E R W O R L D . C O M

CHARACTER WORLD LTD

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Children’s Publishing

The

ourite Brands and r your fav o Chara f e ct e Hom

rs

ng for a new generation Publishi

Launched

S P RI N G

2018

Books@centumbooksltd.co.uk

Over

800,000 Units Sold To Date

Tel: +44 (0)1626 337736

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188 mm

icensing Source Book April 2018 Fashion Accessories

The Home of Licensed Character Accessories

13+

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129.5 mm

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Greeting Cards and Calendars

"take a LOOK

"

We've got this year covered

calendars diaries cards wrap & bags

CONTACT US: +44 (0)1992 702 900 | www.danilo.com | sales@danilo.com PAW PATROL ©2017 SPIN MASTER PAW PRODUCTIONS INC. | MY LITTLE PONY © 2017 HASBRO. | DISNEY PRINCESS ©DISNEY | MANCHESTER UNITED CREST & IMAGERY © MU LTD | TM & © MGA ENT., INC. U.S. & OTHER COUNTRIES | © 2018 MOJANG AB AND MOJANG SYNERGIES AB | © 2018 & TM JULIA DONALDSON/AXEL SCHEFFLER. | © MARVEL | HARRY POTTER CHARACTERS, NAMES AND RELATED INDICIA ARE © & ™ WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. WB SHIELD: TM & © WBEI. J.K. ROWLING’S WIZARDING WORLD ™ J.K. ROWLING AND WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. PUBLISHING RIGHTS © JKR. | © 2018 PUSHEEN CORP.

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Nightwear

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Nightwear

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Nightwear

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Nightwear

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Nightwear, Underwear & Socks/Hosiery

SOME OF OUR MUCH LOVED LICENSES INCLUDE....

BABYWEAR

NIGHTWEAR

TIGHTS

UNDERWEAR

GIFTING

SOCKS

90’s

“Delivering innovation, quality and value on time....every time.”

For license enquires contact: Faye Rashad Email: faye@misirli.co.uk T: +44(0) 116 2645 860

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Nightwear, Underwear & Socks/Hosiery

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Nightwear, Underwear & Socks/Hosiery

GREAT BRANDS

NEW LICENSES

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Nightwear

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Nightwear

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Party Products

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Party Products

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Party Products ®

®

The world’s leader in licensed costumes 08453 070707 www.rubiesuk.com

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Posters/Merchandising and Gifting

CHECK OUT OUR NEW DRINKWARE RANGES

WWW.GBEYE.COM tel: +44 (0) 114 276 7454 e-mail: enquiries@gbeye.com

View our full range of products at www.gbeye.com 2018 04 27 LSB VEGAS ADVERT.indd 1

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Posters/Calendars/Stationery

CONTACT US TODAY TEL: +44 116 284 3640

WWW.PYRAMIDINTERNATIONAL.COM

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Posters/Calendars/Stationery

DOOR MATS

CONTACT US TODAY TEL: +44 116 284 3640

WWW.PYRAMIDINTERNATIONAL.COM

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Toiletries

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Toiletries

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Toys

Arts & crafts

bags

games

plush

pocket money

© Disney

© Disney

© Disney/Pixar

© Disney/Pixar

© Disney/Pixar

© 2018 MARVEL

©2018 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. JoJo Siwa is a trademark of JoJo Siwa Entertainment, LLC.

© 2018 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, Shimmer and Shine and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International ernational Inc.

stationery

© 2018 MARVEL

©2018 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, Slime and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

Jurassic World is a trademark and copyright of Universal Studios and Amblin Entertainment, Inc. Licensed by Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

© Disney

© & ™Lucasfilm Ltd.

BEN 10, CARTOON NETWORK, the logos, and all related characters and elements are trademark of and © 2018 Cartoon Network.

PJ Masks © Frog Box/Entertainment One UK Limited/Walt Disney EMEA Productions Limited 2018

© 2018 Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved. PAW Patrol and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Spin Master Ltd. Nickelodeon and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

© 2018 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, Nella The Princess Knight and all related titles,logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

DreamWorks Trolls © 2018 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Despicable Me, Minions and all related marks and characters are trademarks and copyrights of Universal Studios. Licensed by Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

©2018 Endemol Shine Group

“Inspired by the TV Series” LEGO and the LEGO logo are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2018 The LEGO Group.

USED UNDER LICENSE. SANRIO GMBH ©1976, 2018 SANRIO CO., LTD.

All DC characters and elements © & ™ DC Comics. (2018)

™ & © 2018 Sesame Workshop.

HASBRO and its logo, MY LITTLE PONY, and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2018 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.

© 2018. All rights reserved. HATCHIMALS™ is a trademark of Spin Master Ltd., used under license.

Sales enquiries +44(0) 845 873 9380 or sales@sambro.co.uk or visit us at www. sambro.com

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Bringing Brands and Products Together

EVENT SPONSOR

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

360912_LE18

To learn more about global licensing opportunities and resources, visit

www.ubmlicensinggroup.com or call +1 (310) 857-7560

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Covers_Vegas LSB 2018.indd 3

HAMSTA .WORLD HAMSTA.WORLD HAMSTA.WORLD HAMSTAWORLD HAMSTAWORLD

STEP INTO DA HAMSTA WORLD A fresh new property with global licensing experience.

Join an exciting line-up of International partners, unlimited style guides, playful videos and a daily dose of social media.

CONTACT ONE OF OUR EXCLUSIVE AGENTS HELLO @ HAMSTA.WORLD

“ Brands such as Hamsta World are the future in licensing, instantly appealing and interacting with their growing fan base.”

LAURA BULL Posh Paws International

© HAPPY INK BV - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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