The Bugg Report Magazine — Edition 44

THE HISTORY OF BRAND LICENSING

Brand licensing is a business practice in which a company grants permission to another company to use its brand name, logo, or other intellectual property in exchange for a fee or royalty. The licensed company then produces and markets products or services under the brand name of the licensor.

The history of brand licensing can be traced back to the early 1900s, when companies began to license their trademarks to other companies for use on a variety of products. For example, in 1903, Beatrix Potter licensed the rights to her character Peter Rabbit to a toymaker for the production of stuffed animals. This was the first known instance of a brand licensing agreement. In the years that followed, brand licensing became increasingly popular as companies realised the potential benefits of extending their brands into new markets. By licensing their brands to other companies, brands could reach a wider audience and generate additional revenue.

The growth of brand licensing was also fueled by the rise of mass media, such as movies, television, and the internet. These media platforms created new opportunities for brands to reach consumers and build relationships with them. In the 1980s, brand licensing began to take on a more strategic role for many companies. Companies began to use brand licensing as a way to build brand equity, expand into new markets, and create new revenue streams.

Today, brand licensing is a multi-billion dollar industry. Companies of all sizes use brand licensing to extend their brands into new markets and reach new consumers.

The Benefits of Brand Licensing

There are many benefits to brand licensing for both the licensor and the licensee.

For the licensor, brand licensing can provide a number of benefits, including:

• Increased brand awareness: Licensing a brand to another company can help to increase brand awareness and reach a wider audience.

• New revenue streams: Licensing a brand can generate new revenue streams for the licensor without the need to invest in new product development or marketing.

• Brand extension: Licensing a brand can help to extend the brand into new markets or categories.

• Control: The licensor retains control over the brand and its image through the licensing agreement.

For the licensee, brand licensing can provide a number of benefits, including:

• Access to a strong brand: Licensing a well-known brand can give the licensee access to a strong brand with a loyal customer base.

• Reduced risk: Licensing a brand can reduce the risk for the licensee, as the licensor bears the responsibility for the brand's reputation.

• Expertise: The licensor may be able to provide the licensee with expertise in marketing, product development, or other areas.

• Lower costs: Licensing a brand can be less expensive than developing a new brand from scratch.

The Future of Brand Licensing

The future of brand licensing looks bright. As the world becomes increasingly globalised, companies will continue to look for ways to extend their brands into new markets. Brand licensing will be a key tool for companies to achieve this goal.

In addition, the rise of new technologies, such as the internet and mobile devices, will create new opportunities for brand licensing. For example, companies can now use brand licensing to create virtual worlds, mobile games, and other interactive experiences.

As the world changes, brand licensing will continue to evolve and adapt. This will ensure that brand licensing remains a valuable tool for companies of all sizes.

Managing Director — Tony Bugg tony@buggsolutions.com.au

Editor & Designer — Matthew Bugg matt@buggsolutions.com.au

WELCOME TO EDITION 44

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY

AN UPDATE FROM WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY GLOBAL CONSUMER PRODUCTS

WIDE EYES NEWS FROM THE TUBE

FAST TV CHANNELS ARE BOOMING IN AUSTRALIA BUT WHO KNEW?

THE WIGGLES

LEADING THE WAY IN EDUTAINMENT — FEATURE INTERVIEW WITH LUKE FIELD

ACCORDING TO DOWNSEY

AWARDS EVENTS AND TRADE SHOWS

BLUE CHIP BRANDS

BLUE CHIP BRANDS CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY WITH NEW BRANDS & LICENSING DEALS

COUTURE KINGDOM

WHERE DISNEY MAGIC MEETS FASHION

BBC STUDIOS

WE SPEAK TO KATE O’CONNOR — DIRECTOR OF BRANDS AND LICENSING AT BBC STUDIOS

AI IN ENTERTAINMENT LICENSING

SIDEKICK OR SUPERVILLAIN ORIGIN STORY?

AUSTRALIAN TOY ASSOCIATION

INTRODUCING THE 2023 SYDNEY MID-YEAR PREVIEW EVENT

96% consumer awareness

Best-loved comic strip in true global phenomenon

history

Snoopy’s Outdoor Adventure brand initiatives in 2024

75th Anniversary 2025

A in

17 million fans social media accounts

across their

Top millennial entertainment property

Top 10 licensed property

Cuphead Fast Facts

Classic run and gun video game launched in 2017

Inspired by animation of the 1930s

Heavily focused on boss battles

Currently available on 8 platforms

The Delicious Last Course (DLC) launched in 2022

Achieved multi-platinum status Winner of 20+ awards and 3 Guinness World Records

3 Seasons of The Cuphead Show! available on Netflix

USING REAL INGREDIENTS

RANGE OF 13 NON-ALCOHOLIC BREWS

WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY

AN UPDATE FROM WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY GLOBAL CONSUMER PRODUCTS

Warner Bros. Discovery

AN UPDATE FROM WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY GLOBAL CONSUMER PRODUCTS

Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products ANZ and DC is set to electrify the multiverse unveiling global merchandise collections to support this year’s action-packed film slate.

DC, an entertainment juggernaut, with an everexpanding programming slate and multi-platform approach, offers content for fans of all ages, including our newest and littlest Super Heroes in training as they embark on their journey through the DC Universe. DC offers fans a world of endless opportunities.

THE FLASH

“The Flash”, opening in cinemas across Australia on Thursday June 15, is the hotly anticipated DC film where worlds collide and the DC Extended Universe will never be the same again. All new The Flash products are now available across numerous categories including toys and collectibles from partners Mattel, Funko, Spin Master, McFarlane Toys, New Zealand Mint, clothing from Caprice, and costumes by Rubies. Zing Pop Culture’s brand new and Zing Exclusive “The Flash” range has fans racing to stores faster than lightning!

BLUE BEETLE

“Blue Beetle” marks the DC Super Hero’s first time on the big screen, opening Thursday September 14. Blue Beetle tells the story of Jaime Reyes, a recent college graduate who finds himself in possession of an ancient relic of alien biotechnology. The style guide leans into the luminescent technical world of Blue Beetle, inspiring exciting consumers products that celebrate the birth of a brand new Super Hero.

AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM

Jason Momoa is back in the highly anticipated sequel “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom”, opening in Australia on December 26. After the hugely successful original film, the Aquaman franchise will see support across multiple categories with partners bringing this fantastical underwater world to life with all-new consumer products.

BATMAN DAY

It’s time to celebrate Gotham’s favourite Caped Crusader! Celebrations for DC’s BATMAN will once again span the globe as fans celebrate the World’s Greatest Detective on BATMAN DAY, taking place on Saturday September 16. We will be delighting fans with Bat-themed activations and merchandise take overs in-store and through digital.

BIG ACTION FOR DC’S SMALLEST FANS

DC’s newest super-team is hitting the streets! Batwheels is a brand new pre-school targeted DC animation featuring the Superhero’s and Villains that we’re all familiar with. Batwheels is combining two things we know kids love — Super heroes and Vehicles! All-new Batwheels products will be rolling into market this August from master toy partner Mattel, kids publishing by Scholastic and fashion apparel by Caprice. Available across multiple platforms, Batwheels consumer products program will continue to expand through 2024 and beyond.

FAST TV CHANNELS ARE BOOMING IN AUSTRALIA BUT WHO KNEW?

ARTICLE BY WIDE EYES

Wide Eyes News from the Tube

FAST TV CHANNELS ARE BOOMING IN AUSTRALIA BUT WHO KNEW?

Over the last two years in Australia there has been a quiet explosion in the number of free ad-supported streaming TV channels (FAST) on offer to Australian television viewers.

The three commercial free to air broadcasters — 7, 9 & 10 — and the two government funded broadcasters ABC & SBS, have all launched FAST channels with 7 leading the way with now more than 50 FAST channels on 7Plus.

10Play has more than 20 FAST channels and 9Now more than 10.

All up, including ABC & SBS FAST channels, there are now over 100 FAST channels available on Australian free-to-air TV.

So what exactly are FAST channels?

FAST channels are linear channels, playing out a continuous stream of content, 24 hours a day, which are either specific to a single program or play programs that are all related to a specific genre of content.

For instance, on 7Plus, there are numerous channels dedicated to specific programs including, for example, a Bondi Vet channel that continuously streams episodes of Bondi Vet and nothing else other than Bondi Vet 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

There are also genre-based FAST channels such as Blue Light which continuously streams TV shows about the police stopping or chasing

vehicles on the road like Highway Patrol and Motorbike Cops.

These genre based FAST channels continuously stream shows that fit their specific genre and are scheduled on a daily basis like any other free-to-air channel.

Popular genres are cooking, movies, documentaries, music, crime, travel and sport.

And why have they become popular?

According to a leading commentator in the US; "Consumers are exhausted by the cost and overwhelming choices of subscription services.

Increasingly, they are clamouring for linear, 'lean back' viewing experiences across a wide range of genres and this is what the FAST channels provide — it is the ultimate in lazy TV viewing.”

In the US, FAST channels are expected to generate more advertising revenue than either Free-to-Air, Pay TV or Subscription streaming services by 2025 and it’s a pattern that will likely repeat itself in Australia in a few years after the US and also in the UK.

One of the most attractive features of FAST channels to advertisers is that as the channels are linear broadcasts, the ads that are played out cannot be skipped like on Pay and On Demand channels.

So the viewers of FAST channels get to passively sit back and watch for free past episodes of their favourite TV shows without paying a monthly TV subscription fee but only on the basis that they are prepared to sit through the ads that are paying for the content being free.

And will FAST Channels have any impact on kids TV viewing?

Yes and no: it will mean that there will be some dedicated program specific FAST kids’ channels on the commercial free-to-airs such as what is already on 10Play with channels specific to Paw Patrol, SpongeBob Square Pants, Ryan’s World and Dora the Explorer.

However, the kids TV offerings on 7Play & 9Now are very spartan and mirror the similar lack of interest in broadcasting children's TV programs shown on their main channels.

But as part of an overall broadcast strategy to give longevity to a kid’s brand in Australia, a dedicated FAST channel will become another essential part of the mix and one that is especially important for those kid’s TV shows not broadcast on the ABC.

Presents

The W i g g l y World of Dance The Wiggly World of Dance

What happens when you bring the best talent from ballet, salsa and hip-hop together with early childhood principles? The Wiggles happen!

Amazing content: Watch Ready,Steady,Wiggle! on ABC Kids & ABC iView! Sold out live shows: Touring Australia, New Zealand & Canada in 2023!

Innovative product: Licensed hip-hop and ballet dance classes! COMING SOON

For licensing, promotional & marketing opportunities, contact Alex Ishchenko aishchenko@thewiggles.com.au | 0407 822 627 | www.thewiggles.com

@thewiggles

T he Wiggles

LEADING THE WAY IN EDUTAINMENT

FEATURE INTERVIEW WITH LUKE FIELD

The Wiggles have entertained and educated young children worldwide for over thirty years with their distinctive blend of music, song, and dance. The group still features its signature colours of blue, red, yellow, and purple. However, there are now eight performers who wear the iconic skivvies, and they are more diverse and gender-balanced than ever before, reflecting a more accurate representation of modern-day Australia.

In 2022, the children's supergroup had another outstanding year, which included two arena tours in Australia. This impressive feat made The Wiggles the first band in Australian history to perform two arena tours within a single year. Additionally, they attained a #1 ranking Aria album for ReWiggled, adorned the cover of the prestigious Rolling Stone magazine, and earned two ARIA Awards for Best Children's Act and Best Australian Live Act.

2023 shows no sign of the group slowing down, with a feature-length documentary launching worldwide on Prime Video, more touring, new TV shows and a new 50-track album released in April.

Despite all this success, General Manager Luke Field tells The Bugg Report why it's important that children remain their foremost priority, as the group aims to become the leading brand for pre-schoolers worldwide.

We began by asking Luke about the incredible success of 2022.

Luke, 2022 was a huge year for The Wiggles on so many levels, from incredible collaborations to your first ARIA #1 album and appearing on the cover of Rolling Stone. Did it feel like the year of The Wiggles?

2022 really was ‘the year of The Wiggles!’ but it has become a launching pad for so much more to come in 2023. Our priority is always about creating engaging content for children. We're pleased that we have our new TV show, featuring all eight Wiggles, in the market, along with a new 50-track album, and we plan to return to the studio very soon. We were also grateful to be able to hit the road again and tour Australia, New Zealand, the US & Canada. There's never a dull day in Wiggle Town, but I have to say that the Rolling Stone cover was also a real highlight.

The Wiggles are known for being one of the busiest bands in the world. What is touring life like?

Performing live for audiences is what we love doing the most. The Wiggles have already performed over 180 shows this year alone! Next, we're off to Victoria, New Zealand, the US and Canada. Then we'll return to Australia for the annual Big Show arena tour. It's been particularly fun on the road with the new cast putting on an incredible show, and the audiences love having more Wiggles on stage. We've got the Wiggly dancers with Tsehay, Caterina, Evie and Lucia; John loves his fitness, and Lucia also plays the drums. We've also noticed that the children in our audiences are becoming more and more creative in their costumes, with some dressing up as their favourite Wiggles and even incorporating homemade props. It's always amazing to see the sea of colours in the audience.

What are the new live shows, and how have audiences received them?

The Wiggles have been touring as the eight for over a year. The first sell-out arena tour was the Fruit Salad TV Wiggles Big Show, followed by the regional tours and Holiday Party Big Show. Again, another historic moment in music history being the first band to ever do two Arena Tours in Australia, in the same year.

The shows are incredible and feature all the old hits, along with new ones like Hey Tsehay and Big Strong John, along with all the Wiggly characters like Dorothy the Dinosaur, Wags the Dog, and Captain Feathersword. One of the best parts of having more Wiggles on stage is that they each have unique skills and talents that children can relate to, so there's something for everyone.

What is the current makeup of your broadcast and streaming partners?

We can be viewed across various platforms, including Netflix worldwide, ABC Kids and Stan in Australia, TVNZ in New Zealand, Treehouse in Canada, and Sky Kids in the UK. Parents can also view hundreds of hours of Wiggles content on demand on YouTube. We also have The Wiggles documentary on Prime Video worldwide later this year.

What can people expect from the new TV series by The Wiggles?

Our upcoming series boasts an exceptional collection of songs with an even greater emphasis on education. We're particularly excited about introducing the new dance and movement segments. In addition, we had the privilege of recording a special rendition of 'Crocodile Hunter' at Australia Zoo, featuring Robert Irwin in tribute to his father, Steve. And filming several songs in Uluru was an absolute honour for us.

Why are The Wiggles still as popular today as they were 32 years ago?

I think it's because our audience is at the core of everything we do. The Wiggles may have evolved regarding representation and diversity, but they still put the children at the forefront. We create memorable songs that children remember for a lifetime, we create TV shows that parents know they can trust, and we help to educate through entertainment. Anthony has a background in early childhood teaching. He continues to learn, which also sets us apart from other children's brands.

Plus, The Wiggles are real people; we can take our show on the road and create content that many children's brands can't do.

Can you update us on your latest commercial partnerships?

The Wiggles always seek to align with brand partners that share our values. Our current partners include Dreamworld, Browne's Dairy, St John WA, Transport for NSW and Queensland Government, who we partnered with to promote electrical safety. We're always open to new collaborations and have a unique way of speaking directly to children and their parents.

Finally Luke, what can people expect from The Wiggles in 2023 and beyond?

When we're not touring, we'll either be in the recording studio or filming new content. Anthony is keen to incorporate animated elements into the content we create to allow us to expand creatively. We also have a new documentary launching on Prime Video globally at the end of the year. It will tell the story of The Wiggles from the start to where they are today. But the core of what we do is make entertaining and educational content for pre-schoolers, which will continue to be our priority.

Given The Wiggles' tremendous success for over three decades, it's only natural that they would be a top choice for retailers worldwide regarding commercial ventures. Through their extensive touring and incredible engagement with audiences globally, The Wiggles have established themselves as an evergreen trusted brand and a household name.

"One of the best parts of having more Wiggles on stage is that they each have unique skills and talents that children can relate to, so there's something for everyone."

According to Downsey

AWARDS EVENTS AND TRADE SHOWS

There have been a number of awards events and tradeshows in the UK over recent months. These sort of things provide an opportunity to look in on the industry and help give some clues to latest developments. Licensing is generally a research light business — traditionally people seem to rely on retail sell in and retail sell out as their reference point. In this context it is useful to use events as a way of getting some market insight. I should say that there is a move towards research in licensing with companies like KI ( the agency formerly known as Kids Industries ) flying the flag for research and identifying ways they can help licensing companies by providing more insight for their business. This is a trend that should be applauded and is a sign that licensing is becoming a more mature business.

The Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards are centred on brand licensing and embrace categories such as brand, heritage and personality licensing. The growing success of the BELLAs is a sign in itself of the rise in this category of licensing. It is certainly on the licensing map and more licensees are looking to add rights from this sector to their portfolios. One highlight of the awards was the Natural History Museum’s Maxine Lister picking up the Brand Ambassador award in recognition of her work for the Museum but heritage licensing in general. The Natural History Museum and Maxine are leading lights in the heritage licensing sector. Museums, galleries and visitor attractions are more licensing savvy these days. They see licensing as a good source of income but also a new way to engage with the public. In my own work with The Ashmolean Museum we have recently launched an eco friendly paint collection with Graphenstone Paints. Graphenstone liked the fact they could work with a unique institution and have a direct relationship with a Museum that is highly trusted. Heritage licensing gives licensees an authenticity that they can struggle to find elsewhere.

The BELLAs also highlighted the growing role personalities are playing in licensing. Again the word authenticity is often used in this context. Another benefit personality licensing can deliver is access to a social media audience, significant PR opportunities and the opportunity to work collaboratively with the chosen personality. Often personalities bring category knowledge and expertise. We actually won an award at the BELLAS for Nadiya Hussain’s cookware range from Prestige. This was a range that Nadiya was really hands on in developing and her input helped Prestige shape the range. Consumers can see through partnerships that aren’t authentic but conversely they respond favourably to ones developed through a thorough process. It is interesting to see how products developed with personalities can have longevity in the market when developed to fulfil a gap or meet a need.

The Gift of the Year Awards also took place in the UK recently. The Giftware association who organise these awards have done a fantastic job in creating a set of awards that reflect the gift industry as a whole and acknowledg how gifting is changing.

Ian Downes Start Licensing Ltd

The Gift of the Year Awards also took place in the UK recently. The Giftware Association who organise these awards have done a fantastic job in creating a set of awards that reflect the gift industry as a whole and acknowledge how gifting is changing. Retailwise gifts as a category of product can be found in a spectrum of retailers these days including supermarkets, garden centres, independents and of course on line. As a result product formats and price points have changed. Licensing is changing with the times and new ranges are being launched to reflect the changes in the market. There was a dedicated category for Licensing or Branded products. This was won by Build Your Own with their Wallace & Gromit Rocket kit. This is a product that is very much ‘on brand’ and a great example of how an expert manufacturer like Build Your Own can add value to a classic license. The other brands and products nominated provided some clues to the latest trends in the sector. Highlights included baking kits from The Bottled Baking company developed exclusively for retailer Marks & Spencer featuring their brand characters Colin the Caterpillar and Percy Pig. This is a reminder that partnerships can be formed in different ways these days and indeed retailers are looking for a competitive edge with exclusive products. Other licensing brands that featured in the awards included Disney, the V & A , Peter Rabbit, David Bowie and James Bond — confirming that licensing remains an important component of the gift industry.

It definitely seems that licensees and indeed rights holders are more motivated around finding new routes to market at the moment. Traditional retail channels are more crowded and competitive. A good measure of this willingness to engage with new distribution opportunities was the fact that companies such as Spike Leisurewear were exhibiting at the recent Museum & Heritage trade show. Spike are a long standing and experienced apparel licensee but they have recognised that they need to find new customers. They used the trade show to showcase their National Gallery T Shirt range and packaging. It is good to see licensees being alert to new opportunities but even more pleasing to see them seeking to promote themselves and their licensed products in new ways. My trip to the Museum & Heritage was hands on research that proved very valuable.

CUSTOMER WINS BATHURST 1000!

Brrroom! B-r-r-r-o-o-m!

New from The Iconic Games Company

Brrroom Bathurst 1000 racing into your store soon

After 2 years research, design and testing, this fabulous game from The Iconic Games Company, will be available in August.

Innovative game play, brings the thrill of racing at Mount Panorama into the living room. Crashes, spins and pit stops! Fuel, acceleration and brakes! All these and more built into a game of strategy and fortune.

Richard Lloyd, has incorporated the essential ingredients that have made Squatter so successful, into a new game, “Brrroom Bathurst 1000”.

“I wanted to create a game that lets players live both the excitement and the challenges of the famous Bathurst 1000”, said Richard.

MORE from The Iconic Games Company

You can’t be without your MATES.

A fabulous CARD GAME, based on Squatter, our flagship product. Strive to build a working sheep station around your homestead.

Stockeer MATES is new, fast and fun. 2-4 players 8 to adult.

The Iconic Games Company is the new trading name of Squatter Game Promotions Pty Ltd.

“We are committed to producing high quality games that are highly entertaining” said Richard, from Iconic Games. “We have distilled the essence of a successful game and incorporate these essentials in all our games. We deliver products that your retail customers love.

The Iconic Games Company

- the family company that brings the evergreen Australian board game - Squatter

BLUE CHIP BRANDS

20TH ANNIVERSARY WITH NEW BRANDS & LICENSING DEALS

www.bluechipbrands.com.au

Blue Chip Brands

BLUE CHIP BRANDS CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY WITH NEW BRANDS & LICENSING DEALS

2023 marks the 20th year in business for Melbourne based brand licensing agency, Blue Chip Brands. The company is marking the occasion with new product launches for existing brand partners as well as being appointed to manage the development of the consumer products program for some new clients.

Australian illustrator Steven Rhodes continues to flourish. A raft of new deals have been finalised recently including Ripple Junction, Ata-Boy, Sellers Publishing & Pyramid America in North America. In EMEA — Displate, Moonpig, EMP, Impericon and Bravado Germany have all inked deals and Blackstone Design has come on board and is supplying apparel to Urban Outfitters.

One of the licenses that has recently joined the Blue Chip Brands portfolio is the University of Cambridge. The collegiate fashion trend has really established itself worldwide and there is no more iconic institution than the University of Cambridge which dates back to 1209. With global retail programs in place with brands such as Replay Jeans, Bershka and H&M the first Australian apparel is slated to be launched for Summer 2023 through licensee Caprice.

Betty Boop is enjoying a resurgence in Australasia. Young women’s apparel was launched in the first quarter of 2023 with global fashion destination online retailer — Princess Polly as well as with youth fashion chain Jay Jays. Both ranges were designed and delivered by licensee Bravado Australia. Factorie is launching a range of fashion apparel and accessories in July and has more exciting plans in the pipeline for later in the year featuring Betty Boop.

Blue Chip Brands has also been tapped to develop a consumer products program in the region for Californian design and lifestyle brand — Killer Acid. Killer Acid represents the psychedelic work of artist Rob Coradetti. The style is a blend of head shop and punk rock and enjoys premium retail placement with retailers including Zumiez, Urban Outfitters and Pac Sun in the USA and Blue Tomato in Europe. The key focus will be to secure the core apparel partner to launch the brand in Australasia.

PENTHOUSE is one of the most iconic globally recognized lifestyle brands in history. For more than five decades, PENTHOUSE has remained a relevant and influential resource for consumers who crave a luxuriously bold lifestyle defined by their own terms. Blue Chip Brands is now representing PENTHOUSE consumer products for Australia.

WHERE DISNEY MAGIC MEETS FASHION

www.couturekingdom.com

Couture Kingdom

WHERE DISNEY MAGIC MEETS FASHION

In the world of fashion accessories, there are few brands that can capture the imagination quite like Couture Kingdom. As a long-standing licensee for The Walt Disney Company, Sydney based Couture Kingdom has been enchanting pop culture fans for over a decade with its exquisite range of Disneyinspired jewellery, watches, and hair products. With a rich history and a commitment to quality, Couture Kingdom has become synonymous with timeless classics and whimsical charm.

In 2020, the company underwent a transformative change when long-term employees Karen and Ryan Ridikas took the reins as owners. With a clear vision to expand and diversify the brand, the duo introduced new product ranges, paving the way for exciting possibilities. Evolving Under their leadership into a brand that not only caters to the jewellery industry but also captivates the hearts of children and fashion-forward individuals alike through the gift and toy industries.

One of the highlights of Couture Kingdom's newest offerings is its Essential Classics Collection, specially designed for kids. Crafted from hypoallergenic stainless steel, this range combines safety and style seamlessly. From the timeless Mickey Mouse birthstone pieces to heroes from Star Wars, and Marvel must-haves such as Spider-Man, there is something for every young enthusiast. The range features analogue watches, including innovative ‘time teacher’ designs that aid in teaching children to read the time — an invaluable skill presented in a playful and engaging way.

For those seeking a touch of luxury and collectibles, Couture Kingdom's Couture range is a must-see. This legacy collection caters to their fashion-focused audience, offering a diverse selection of designs from Disney classics like Winnie the Pooh, to more modern favourites such as Toy Story and The Nightmare Before Christmas. Crafted from 14K gold plating on base metal, this range spans from $29 to $89, allowing fans to embrace their Disney love with a touch of sophistication and panache.

For the discerning fan who appreciates understated style, Couture Kingdom's precious metal range is the epitome of pop culture refinement. Created with 14K gold plated 925 sterling silver, these delicate pieces can be worn discreetly, making them a perfect choice for those who prefer a more subtle expression of their fandom. Drawing inspiration from timeless minimalism, taking classic characters, and elevating them to new heights, crafting elegant and sophisticated jewellery that transcends time and trends. With prices ranging from $49 to $179, offering an unparalleled level of luxury for those seeking a truly exceptional pop culture accessory.

As Couture Kingdom continues to evolve and captivate the hearts of Disney enthusiasts worldwide, one thing remains constant—the brand's unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and the enduring magic of Disney. Whether you're a child embracing the joy of Disney for the first time or a fashionforward individual seeking a form of expression, Couture Kingdom's range of jewellery and accessories has something for everyone.

WE SPEAK TO KATE O'CONNOR DIRECTOR OF BRANDS AND LICENSING

BBC Studios

WE SPEAK TO KATE O’CONNOR

DIRECTOR OF BRANDS AND LICENSING

The Bugg Report spoke to Kate O’Connor in May last year (2022) to discuss all things relating to the 100th Anniversary of BBC Studios and the iconic brand portfolio including Doctor Who, BBC Earth, Top Gear and Bluey. One year later and we once again had the chance to check in with Kate to see how things are going across the BBC Studios portfolio!

Kate, thanks so much for speaking to us and to start I thought we could talk about Bluey and what has been happening with content and consumer products?

We always like to focus on partnering with best in class brands, that stay true to Bluey’s relatability and humour, so this year’s been no different in that regard.

We have to mention the success of the Series Three episodes in Australia, which are obviously the springboard for our consumer products and events. The episode that premiered over Easter in Australia, Cubby, actually achieved an audience of nearly 1.5 million — the highest by any Bluey episode since the series premiered in 2018. And over in the US we reached the number one spot for an acquired show back in April, beating the likes of Ted Lasso and Succession! So Bluey is bigger than ever, which gives us even more incentive to surprise and delight our fans with new products and experiences.

A major launch recently was the ColgatePalmolive personal care range. We’ve sold over 1.84 million units within the oral care range, so the natural next step was hair, hand and bodywashes which have just hit shelves.

We also released a new album, “Dance Mode”, on CD, vinyl and streaming platforms, and it went straight to #1 on the ARIA charts. Some real bangers on that one, I’ve been playing it to my two-yearold and it’s definitely his favourite album of the year.

And we know the Bugg Report loves a new toy, so we’re pretty excited about the latest Moose playsets to hit stores. The Hammerbarn playset is a Bluey fan’s dream, standing at nearly 60 centimetres tall, and it features the voice talents of Hamish Blake, who plays a Hammerbarn employee in the show. Plenty of excitement from fans on that one given the cult status of that episode.

So yes, lots happening with Bluey, and lots still to come, with our “Five Years of Bluey” celebrations kicking off in October and new content in the pipeline.

Hey Duggee has been adored by so many fans for almost 10 years now and I believe that Season 4 launched earlier this year in April?

The Squirrels are still going strong! The show’s very funny, with a touch of the surreal, and it really resonates with both little and big kids, as it has a quirky sense of humour that parents love too. Series 4 launched on ABC Kids & ABC iview in April, and we’ve released new books, toys, partyware and puzzles to complement the new episodes. Some of our most popular items are the new Dinosaur and Cooking Take and Play sets, which feature themed accessories.

Another much-loved brand in the BBC Studios portfolio is Doctor Who which celebrates 60 years in 2023… I am sure you have much to announce as a result?

Lots has been happening with BBC Earth also with the latest series of BBC Earth launching this past April, the Minecraft x Frozen Planet II partnership and the BBC Earth Experience launching in the UK?

We’re really excited about all the BBC Earth activity, it’s a very strong brand globally. Frozen Planet II launched over here in April on Channel Nine and it stunned Australian audiences with its breathtaking visuals and emotional scenes. The Minecraft partnership is an interesting one as it’s opening up a new generation to BBC Earth. We created five free Frozen Planet II worlds, with educational content on a wide range of subjects, accompanied by lesson plans for teachers. And the BBC Earth experience, well that’s next level. The attraction in London features footage from Seven Worlds, One Planet, with bespoke narration by the one and only Sir David Attenborough and projected on to multiple screens. It is a truly spectacular experience for all ages and will be coming to Australia later in the year, which we are very excited about.

60 years is huge, and we know how dedicated our fans are so we know we have to deliver some really special moments. We’ve announced three 60-minute specials, which will feature the return of fan-favourites David Tennant and Catherine Tate. We’re excited to have Russell T Davies back in the driver’s seat as showrunner, as he’s credited with propelling the show into a global phenomenon. And we’re also thrilled about the new Doctor, Ncuti Gatwa, of Netflix’s “Sex Education” fame – he’s been cast as the 15th Doctor for the new series which will air on Disney+ outside of the UK.

Finally, could you provide an update on the Andy Day live tour earlier this year in January?

It had been four years since Andy came to Australia, so fans were understandably fizzing when he came with his “Andy’s Amazing Adventures” live show in January. It toured all over the country and sold over 25,000 tickets. We initially announced 28 shows but added eight due to demand, so it was a great success! We can’t wait to do more with Andy, including some fun products that are in the works.

SIDEKICK OR SUPERVILLAIN ORIGIN STORY?

BY STEPHANIE CANDILORO

AI in Entertainment Licensing

SIDEKICK OR SUPERVILLAIN ORIGIN STORY?

If you’re subscribed to the Bugg Report, chances are you work in the world of entertainment licensing and/or consumer products. Additionally, if you scroll your phone or haven’t been living under a rock, then chances are you would’ve also heard of a new emerging player– the realm of artificial intelligence (AI).

AI is in its infancy but has already created quite a buzz. I investigated the latest AI systems, to get a snapshot of AI’s potential in the Entertainment licensing industry. Can AI serve as a valuable assistant and research tool and does it pose any risks?

I share findings below, uncovering some limitations and quirks along the way.

1. THE QUIRKS OF AI IMAGE GENERATION

As someone with a background in graphic design, I was particularly excited to experiment with AI image generation. I’d seen the news about Boris Eldagsen and James Allen who submitted AI-generated pieces, that passed for “originals” and won prestigious competitions. Their final pieces are super polished and so I had high hopes for what I could generate with the programs.

My own experiments with programs like DALL-E and MidJourney revealed that AI-generated mock ups fall short when it comes to accurately depicting 3D products or famous characters. Generating something close to what you're looking for requires 100s of prompts, and even then, additional polishing is necessary using other tools.

Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately) I found that AI-image generators still have a very long way to go and are not quite ready to steal graphic designers' jobs in our industry *sigh of relief from design teams*.

2. UNVEILING AI'S CREATIVE (MIS) INTERPRETATIONS

In a light-hearted experiment to test AI's compliance with copyright and assess potential risks, I asked DALL-E to generate questionable images of a famous bunny, mouse, and blonde doll smoking a cigarette.

The results were far from expected, in fact, they went off on a wild, psychedelic tangent. But hey, Perhaps AI's inability to replicate recognisable characters offers a comforting thought for the licensing industry, ensuring the integrity of beloved brands remains intact. At least AI respects copyright laws and ethics— even if accidentally, for now.

3. INDUSTRY RESEARCH INSIGHTS AND PLAYFULNESS

Our industry relies on and spends a lot of money on market research companies like NPD, Brandtrends, Ipsos Mori and others. But could AI compete with them? Curious to explore, I turned to AI for insights into the world's most popular characters. According to its elusive data sources, the top five characters, in order of popularity, are Mickey Mouse, Superman, Mario, Spider-Man, and Hello Kitty. ChatGPT explained to me that this ranking was “based on general knowledge and the wide recognition these characters have gained over the years through their presence in popular culture, media, merchandise, and global brand awareness”.

While the origins of this ranking remain vague, it sparks playful speculation and invites further exploration into consumer preferences. AI is also improving daily and evolving quickly with Google BARD AI now sharing sources with numbered citations, with it’s results.

4. AI CAN BE A TRUSTED ASSISTANT OR SIDEKICK

Despite its quirks, AI brings valuable support to licensing professionals. With practice, trial, and error, it can become a reliable assistant. While the current AI offering isn’t threatening to steal any of our jobs yet, who knows what AI may evolve to. The fact remains that it isn’t going anywhere, and we probably need to evolve with it too.

Beyond image generation, AI proves useful in essential areas such as brand assurance, contract management, and staying updated on market trends (just ensure it shares its sources). With AI at our side, licensing professionals can focus on strategic decisionmaking while delegating routine tasks and research to their tireless digital accomplice.

5. A FINAL TEST CONDUCTED USING CHATGTP

As my final test, I uploaded this article to ChatGPT for some feedback and suggestions. The robot loved the article and went as far as saying that Tony Bugg would quadruple Bugg Report’s readership overnight simply by including the article*

Stephanie Candiloro

*There is no available data to support this statement, and in fact, there may be substantial evidence to debunk it.

ChatGPT explained to me that this ranking was “based on general knowledge and the wide recognition these characters have gained over the years through their presence in popular culture, media, merchandise, and global brand awareness”.

BY ALICE SANDERSON — EXECUTIVE MANAGER www.austoy.com.au

Australian Toy Association

INTRODUCING THE 2023 SYDNEY MID-YEAR PREVIEW EVENT

This June the ATA will welcome our members and attendees to the 2023 Sydney Mid-Year event. This years’ fair is a sell-out again and we have so many great ATA members exhibiting their products in the main ballroom, Steeds, the boardrooms and on the mezzanine. We hope you check out each and every one of them to find out what to stock your shelves with leading up to the Christmas period.

This annual event has been running since 2017 and it provides an opportunity for our exhibitors to show product that may not have been available at the Melbourne fair as well as offer buyers an opportunity to place orders for the end of the year.

We will have just under 40 members exhibiting with 100’s of products on show over the two days. These include plush, games, arts & crafts, STEM, dolls, educational items and so much more.

On Wednesday night we have the industry function being held at Sahra by the River and this provides an opportunity to come network with the industry. All are welcome so if you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, there may still be time.

We will have just under 40 members exhibiting with 100’s of products on show over the two days. These include plush, games, arts & crafts, STEM, dolls, educational items and so much more.

Alice Sanderson

We are also running a raffle to raise funds for the Australian Toy Association Charity Foundation (ATACF) which provides support for children from low socio-economic backgrounds with their educational and mobility needs. So bring some pocket money along for a chance to have an adventure with the $1,000 Red Balloon voucher prize.

The ATACF, previously the Toy Charity Foundation, has provided over $30,000 in funding for therapy and sensory items for children with cerebral palsy, ADHD and ASD, laptops for home schooling during COVID, and we also helped fund programs assisting children with their learning through creative arts and STEM based education.

We thank our media partner Bugg Media for helping us to promote the event and we look forward to running another successful Sydney Mid-Year show on behalf of our members and the industry.