Oasis, Debenhams, Tesco and Boots all crowned in the Retail category.
Four major retail names walked away victorious at the Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards yesterday.
The retail category focused on the commitment to the brand licensing sector within the retail space, across the high street, grocery, department stores and specialist.
The first retail award was for Best High Street Fashion Retailer Licensed Brand Execution (sponsored by Beanstalk). Oasis was a very popular winner, with the commitment the retailer put into its collaborations with the V&A praised.
Aoife McCormick, senior brand design manager, accepted the award, with Oasis’ coo Hash Ladha, who said: “We are ecstatic! It was an absolute privilege to work with the V&A – a great award to win.”
Best Department Store or Mixed Retailer Licensed Brand Execution (sponsored by Happy Jackson) was won by Debenhams, which was praised for being a consistent supporter of brands during its activities over the past year.
Sarah Theobald, buying manager for gifts, said: “This is a real surprise and we are delighted. We have worked really hard on brands and licences over the last 12 months, and more, so to see it being recognised is brilliant.”
Next up was Best Supermarket Licensed Brand Execution (sponsored by IFL Science). Tesco was recognised for its increased open-mindedness and cohesive approach to brand licensing, with head of licensing Rachel Wakley accepting the award on behalf of the team.
The final award in this category was Best Specialist Retailer Brand Execution (sponsored by Discovery Consumer Products).
Boots emerged as the victor, with Joanna Selby, Boots’ buyer of ladies gifts saying: “I am pleased to accept this award on behalf of all the team.”
