The Source takes a look at some of the big licensing stories of the year.
2016 has been another stellar year in the UK licensing industry – from big name blockbusters at the cinema transferring their success onto retail shelves, to the launch of the B&LLAs and a storming year for the Licensing Awards and The Light Fund, new properties emerging and newcomers in the retail space.
We highlight some of our most read stories and articles of the year, with today being the turn of May and June.
May
Sunrise welcomes Jennifer Burgos – Former Turner, Aardman and Discovery exec joins Jungle Beat creator.
Top licensors pass $262bn at global retail in 2015 – Annual global licensor listing is topped by The Walt Disney Company.
Fashion houses reveal Disney inspirations – Panel of high profile fashion designers part of special Somerset House event.
M&S adds weight to Retail Mentoring Programme – M&S’ Pippa Smith says that Brand Licensing Europe initiative is “very beneficial”.
Halfords outlines licensing ambitions – Bike specialist will be part of BLE’s Retail Mentoring Programme for the first time this year.
Studiocanal dates Paddington 2 in the UK – Eagerly awaited movie sequel will arrive on November 24, 2017.
UK names among nominees for 2016 US LIMA Awards – V&A, Bulldog, Copyrights Group, Peppa Pig, RFU among those shortlisted in US accolades.
‘Movie licensing business shows no sign of slowing’ – Execs from Disney, Cooneen, MGA, BBC, The Deal Factory debate future of sector at Spring Fling.
June
Global brands triumph at LIMA US Licensing Awards – Shopkins, Doctor Who, Downton Abbey, Peppa Pig among winners at annual awards.
Aldi unveils Euro 2016 special buys – Official licensed products – including apparel – part of national media ad push.
‘US licensing market is healthy but challenged’ – Ahead of Licensing Expo, LIMA’s Martin Brochstein gives us a view into the US market.
‘Flexibility is key in a changing retail landscape’ – We need shorter routes to market for longer lead time products, says Mothercare’s Barbara Robinson.
CPLG signs up to represent Felix the Cat – DreamWorks appoints agency to build brand across EMEA and North America.
Studiocanal buys Copyrights Group & Paddington IP – Existing Copyrights team will remain in place, including Nicholas Durbridge as chairman.
Disney unveils new Cath Kidston collaboration – Characters including Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh to be integrated into range of classic prints.
Bravado teams with The Rolling Stones exhibition – Company is the exclusive partner for the Exhibitionism merchandise store.
Argos names BB-8, PAW Patrol in Christmas 2016 list – Retailer is first to reveal its top toy predictions for this year’s festive season.
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