Ian Downes to take on licensing for key brands inc. Morph, Early Man, Wallace & Gromit.
Start Licensing is set to represent all of Aardman’s key brands in the UK across a variety of product categories.
The Ian Downes-led agency will take on the management of the existing licensing programme, as well as being tasked with generating new business for the studio.
The company will be looking after the likes of Shaun the Sheep, Wallace & Gromit, Morph, Timmy Time and the upcoming film, Early Man.
Rob Goodchild, head of licensing at Aardman, said: “We work successfully with an agency model around the world and it makes sense for us to take this approach in our home market, where we can draw on Start Licensing’s excellent experience and reputation.
“We are confident that they are the best partner to help grow the Aardman licensing programme across existing and new business. We will work cooperatively at the upcoming BLE and will be happy to take appointments at either Aardman or Start Licensing booths.”
Ian Downes, founder and director of Start Licensing, added: “We are delighted to be working with Aardman. They have a fantastic portfolio of brands – brands that have a rich heritage and that are truly original. They are commercially proven and offer commercial partners real opportunities to drive commercial success.
“It is also a great opportunity to work with the excellent and well respected team at Aardman. This opportunity plays to our strengths and experience well. We look forward to contributing in a positive way to the development of Aardman’s brands in the licensing market.”
The studio will maintain responsibility for master toy, publishing and interactive categories, while all product approvals, payments and contracts will continue to be managed directly by the Aardman team.
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