As it turns 75 this year, Spring Fair has created The Licensing Lab – in partnership with Fabacus and Licensing International – to serve as an industry hub at the show and to offer a dedicated showcase for licensors and licensees. LicensingSource.net catches up with event director, Soraya Gadelrab, to find out more.
2025 marks a big year for Spring Fair, with the event celebrating its 75th anniversary when it returns to Birmingham’s NEC from 2-5 February.
Event director, Soraya Gadelrab, is promising that the event is going to be a “big party, a celebration of the last 75 years, the people and the businesses that have been a part of the show for so many years. It is also a chance to reflect on what retail means today and how we continue to move forward and look ahead to the next 75 years.”
When it comes to licensing, the sector has played a “massive part” at the show throughout its history and 2025 will see some major activations, networking and experiences, thanks to the introduction of The Licensing Lab, which Spring Fair has created in partnership with Fabacus and Licensing International.
“An impressive 61% of the Spring Fair’s 38,000 visitors have expressed interest in licensed products,” explains Soraya. “Licensing has played a massive part at Spring Fair throughout its history and buyers will continue to find the biggest selection of licensed products across all 12 destinations of the show.
“The Licensing Lab in partnership with Fabacus and Licensing International will serve as an industry hub, promoting knowledge sharing, business expansion and networking. A purpose-built space designed by Llewelyn-Bowen Design will be dedicated to fostering the growth, collaboration, and celebration of the UK’s vibrant licensing industry. The Licensing Lab will offer a dedicated showcase for licensors and licensees to present the latest brands, trends and innovations within the licensing industry.”
Llewelyn-Bowen Design, meanwhile, will be designing the lounge area with its bespoke wallpaper and furnishings. Soraya continues: “Visitors will discover a stylish and comfortable Networking Lounge for informal discussions, refreshment breaks and collaborative meetings; and educational sessions to enhance knowledge sharing including workshops, panels, and seminars led by industry experts covering licensing trends, legal aspects, marketing strategies and success stories. Interactive displays will feature engaging demonstrations, product samples and live product demos.”
It’s a big commitment to the business of licensing for Spring Fair, but one which Soraya and the team believes will further enhance the show experience and drive growth.
“The UK’s independent retail sector, a major commercial force valued at £66.3 billion and representing 30% of the overall market, is an essential audience for licensing professionals,” she comments. “By celebrating achievements, facilitating connections and promoting knowledge sharing, the Licensing Lab will not only enhance the Spring Fair experience but also drive growth and innovation within the licensing sector.
“We saw some amazing chart topping new and historic licensed brands last year and many of the most popular including Disney (Frozen, Marvel, Star Wars, Disney Classics), Harry Potter, Pokémon, Barbie, Super Mario Bros, Marvel Cinematic Universe (Avengers, Spider-Man), DC Comics (Batman, Wonder Woman), Peppa Pig, Paddington, Bluey, Minecraft, Orla Kiely and Mary Berry, will be on display at the February show from suppliers including Enesco, Widdop & Co, Paladone, Rainbow Designs, Blue Sky Studios, Half Moon Bay, Cardology, Muddleit, DKB Toys, Whitehouse Leisure, House of Marbles, Keplin Group, The Noble Collection, Peers Hardy, The Crafty Kit Company, Captivate Brands and many more.”
This feature originally appeared in the spring 2025 edition of Licensing Source Book. To read the full publication, click on this link.
