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APRIL 2012
Vol. 7, No. 2
Features
18 FOOD & BEVERAGE LICENSING: FEEDING CONSUMER DEMANDS by Jennifer Lynch
20 FOOD & BEVERAGE LICENSING: PRODUCT PRESENTATION by Jennifer Lynch
22 BRAND LICENSING: THE NEW DEAL by Chris Adams
24 BRAND LICENSING: PRODUCT PRESENTATION by Chris Adams
26 FOR MOVIE STUDIOS, LICENSING IS ALL ABOUT STRATEGY by Laurie Leahey
28 LICENSING KEEPS VIEWERS TUNED IN TO TV BRANDS by Laurie Leahey
30 DESIGNED FOR SUCCESS: AN ARTISTIC APPROACH TO LICENSING by Jennifer Lynch
32 ART & DESIGN: PRODUCT PRESENTATION by Jennifer Lynch
Departments 4
Observations & Opinions
8
Real Deal
6 10 12 14 16 34 35
The TICKER
On the Radar
Essence of Style
Mavericks in the Market: Shannon Lee of Bruce Lee Enterprises Royaltie$ Marketplace: The Jarden Corporation’s Coleman You’re Hired
Calendar of Events
ON THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM THE LEFT: A RENDERING OF A PEPSI-INSPIRED CHRISTIAN COTA DRESS. PEPSI IS REPRESENTED BY THE JOESTER LORIA GROUP. COLEMAN, OWNED BY JARDEN CORPORATION, IS REPRESENTED BY BRAND CENTRAL FOR LICENSING. BRUCE LEE ENTERPRISES IS REPRESENTED BY SHANNON LEE. THE ACTION FIGURE SHOWN WAS CREATED BY LICENSEE ROUND 5. CELEBRATING ITS 75TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR, SPAM IS OWNED AND LICENSED BY HORMEL FOODS. COCA COLA IS WORKING WITH THE INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIC COMMITTEE FOR A GLOBAL LICENSING PROGRAM. ON THE COVER FROM THE LEFT: ARTIST BOB PETTES’ LAST SWIM SUMMER, LICENSOR MHS LICENSING; DENA DESIGNS’ BEDDING PACKAGE, LICENSEE NOSTALGIA HOME FASHIONS; BILL ABBOTT GREETING CARD, LICENSOR MGL LICENSING, LICENSEE HALLMARK UK; JESSICA STEELE KITCHEN STATIONERY, LICENSOR JEWEL BRANDING & LICENSING, LICENSEE C.R. GIBSON
OF
COVER BY JENNIFER LYNCH
A
APRIL 2012 • VOL. 7, NO. 2
PUBLISHER ANDY KRINNER ANDY@ANBMEDIA.COM
NAVIGATING THE LICENSING HIGHWAY
by Andy Krinner
s we prepare to embark on our yearly
ogy-based licensing (such as apps and viral
but wonder what a first-time prospective li-
Angry Birds, it’s still too early to tell how well
exodus to the desert for the Licensing International Expo, I can’t help
censee must be thinking as they enter the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. In years past, it
was fairly easy to marry products and hot licenses and assure all of the partners involved a mostly positive outcome. Needless to say, at
that time, the economy was stronger. Now, we are still in the midst of a soft economy. Add a
videos) will become the new frontier to mine li-
censing programs. Despite the initial success of this new medium will work for licensing. Will it produce the results that everyone is looking for? The industry is looking for the next big thing on the ’Net. It seems to be that creating franchise properties is a rarity now. Or is it?
Road two is what I’ll call the Brand Licensing
couple of licensing snafus into the mix and sud-
Scenic Byway. The pace is a lot less frenetic on
ucts providing great dividends, retailers and li-
But if you are in it for the long haul, these are the
denly, licensing isn’t so easy to predict.
While still keen on the idea of licensed prod-
censees have become much more selective about
their licensing partnerships. There are two definitive roads to travel. The first I’ll call the Enter-
tainment Licensing Autobahn. Everything moves very quickly on this road. While taking into consideration marketing budgets, built-in audience, and, now, fan-power, it has to be noted that pick-
ing entertainment licensing partners still isn’t as
easy as it once was. TV and movies used to be the go-to for licensees looking to break in. While
still very important and carrying arguably the
most upside in licensing these days, its automatic success isn’t guaranteed anymore. Part of the rea-
son is that the window on entertainment licensing
has gotten a little smaller due in part to “realtime” media. Therefore having a major category
to license has become essential. The only prob-
lem with that is there are too many players and not enough positions. The hope is that technol-
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ROYALTIE$ APRIL 2012
this seemingly slower road and patience is a must
since these programs don’t happen overnight.
types of programs you should be looking for since most of these brands have a long track
record with consumers. Corporate trademarks, fashion brands, and celebrity names attached to
products give shoppers the feeling that they are
buying a piece of that company or person, and that breeds confidence in the purchase. But sometimes these programs move at a snail’s pace so success may take a while longer.
In this issue we try to help define the efforts
being made in TV and movie licensing, brand li-
censing, and food licensing. Hopefully this will
help the newbies decide which road they should
travel. Look forward to seeing everyone in June. Clarification: In the February issue, we neglected to specify that The Miss America brand is co-owned by Hilco Consumer Capital and Infinity Lifestyle Brands.
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER BOB GLASER BOB@ANBMEDIA.COM ADVERTISING MANAGER DONNA MOORE DONNA@ANBMEDIA.COM CONTROLLER MARY GROGAN MARY@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITOR IN CHIEF JIM SILVER JIM@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITORIAL DIRECTOR NANCY LOMBARDI NANCY@ANBMEDIA.COM CONTRIBUTING EDITOR CHRIS ADAMS CHRISA@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITOR AT LARGE CHRISTOPHER BYRNE CHRISB@ANBMEDIA.COM EDITOR LAURIE LEAHEY LAURIE@ANBMEDIA.COM ASSISTANT EDITOR JENNIFER LYNCH JENNIFER@ANBMEDIA.COM WEB MASTER ERIK KIECKHAFER ERIK@ANBMEDIA.COM WEB CONTENT MANAGER BRENDAN SANABRIA BRENDAN@ANBMEDIA.COM PUBLIC RELATIONS REPRESENTATIVE JOSSLYNNE WELCH LITZKY PUBLIC RELATIONS, 320 SINATRA DR., HOBOKEN, N.J. 07030 (201) 222–9118 EXT. 13 • JWELCH@LITZKYPR.COM
INTERESTED IN A SUBSCRIPTION? CONTACT SUBSCRIPTIONS@ANBMEDIA.COM ANB
MEDIA, INC.
229 WEST 28TH STREET, SUITE 401, NEW YORK, NY 10001 PHONE: (646) 763–8710 • FAX: (646) 763–8727
ROYALTIE$ is published five times per year by aNb Media. Copyright 2012 aNb Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A. ROYALTIE$ is a registered trademark of aNb Media. Opinions and comments expressed in this publication by editors, contributing writers, or solicited or unsolicited documents are not necessarily those of ROYALTIE$ management.
www.aNbMedia.com
WARNER BROS. CONSUMER PRODUCTS
GLOBAL PROPERTIES GLOBAL PARTNERS
BATMAN, GREEN LANTERN, SUPERMAN: TM & © DC Comics. SCOOBY-DOO: TM & © Hanna-Barbera. TOM AND JERRY: TM & © Turner Entertainment Co. THUNDERCATS: ™ WBEI. © WBEI and Ted Wolf. HARRY POTTER, LOONEY TUNES, WBCP LOGO: TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY: ©NLP ™ Middle-earth Ent. Lic. to New Line. ©2012 Mattel. All Rights Reserved. ©The Bridge Direct, Inc. 2015. All Rights Reserved. ©2012 The LEGO Group. All Rights Reserved. (s12)
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A RECAP
OF I NDUSTRY
HEADLINES
• For More News, Visit www.aNbMedia.com
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CLASSIC MEDIA ACQUIRES NODDY AND OLIVIA
Classic Media acquired the rights to preschool properties Noddy (part of the Enid Blyton estate) and Olivia from Chorion. Noddy was introduced by author Enid Blyton in the book Noddy Goes to Toyland, first published in 1949. It made its TV debut in the UK in 1954, as well as on the London stage. The TV series was adapted for the French market in 1963 as Oui-Oui. The franchise has a programming library of more than 250 episodes, and the latest series, Noddy in Toyland, is currently televised in more than 100 countries. Olivia originated as an award-winning book series by Ian Falconer that inspired an animated TV series. In 2009, Olivia debuted as a 3-D CG-animated TV series on Nick Jr. in the U.S. The series is now seen in more than 120 countries and airs on broadcasters that include ABC (Australia), Five/Milkshake! (UK), Treehouse (Canada), and TF1 (France).
HOLLY HOBBIE BOOKS COME TO ITALY
Olivia
American Greetings Properties (AGP) and international licensing agent Starbright SRL announced last week that Magazzini Salani will launch for the first time a range of Holly Hobbie books in Italy. Four Holly Hobbie books were released last month in time for Italy’s Bologna Book Fair. These new titles will be available online as well as throughout mass market, book, department, hypermarket, airport gift, and independent stores in Italy, Vatican City, San Marino, and Canton Ticino. This partnership expands on a current deal with Adriano Salani for notebooks, calendars, agendas, bags, and T-shirts for children, teens, and adults.
PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDERS GETS LICENSING AGENT
The Professional Bull Riders (PBR) signed All-American Licensing and Management Group (AALMG) to act as a licensing agent for the PBR. AALMG will be responsible for a series of categories, including interactive games, health & beauty, snacks, foods, and non-energy and non-alcoholic beverages. The AALMG team will leverage emerging technology with traditional licensing practices to conceptualize, develop, and bring products to market.
GIRL SCOUTS GET A STAMP
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Girl Scouts, the U.S. Postal Service issued the First-Class Celebrate Scouting Forever Stamp, which will be available in June as part of the Girl Scouts’ Rock the Mall celebration in Washington, DC. From the “sister” stamp to the 2010 Scouting stamp, each pays tribute to scouting organizations for the opportunities they have provided millions of youths worldwide. The artwork for both stamps was created by Craig Frazier of Mill Valley, Calif., under the art direction of Derry Noyes of Washington, DC.
BEEHIVE BRANDS SIGNS AUSTRALIAN ARTIST
Australian artist and designer Chris Chun has appointed Beehive Brands, the U.S.-based licensing agency, to help develop his brand’s licensing program in North America. Beehive Brands will be working exclusively with Chris Chun to secure upscale licensing programs across a range of high-end home décor, stationery, greeting cards, apparel, and other popular lifestyle categories.
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SID THE SCIENCE KID COMES TO THE BIG SCREEN
The Jim Henson Company has signed an agreement with its first partner in China, Nine Eyes Stone & Shanghai Animation Film Studios, to co-produce Sid the Science Kid: The Movie, based on the TV series. The feature film is the company’s first animated movie available in 3-D format and standard HD. The film will be written by Bradley Zweig, who also serves as an executive producer. Additional executive producers are Lisa Henson and Halle Stanford of The Jim Henson Company. For Nine Eyes Stone, Al F. Barry is the executive producer and David Miller is producer. The Jim Henson Company is handling all ancillary disSid the Science Kid tribution of the property including licensing, video, and merchandising. The Jim Henson Company represents worldwide rights to the movie outside of China, including all theatrical, television, DVD, and digital platforms and will meet with international buyers for the feature film at the upcoming MIPTV market. As part of the financing agreement, Nine Eyes Stone & Shanghai Animation Film Studios has obtained distribution rights for both the existing series and new film in the Chinese market.
FAR EAST MOVEMENT CREATES MONSUNO THEME SONG
Pacific Animation Partners, a joint venture between Jakks Pacific and Dentsu Entertainment USA, has aligned with Cherrytree/Interscope Records’ Far East Movement, to create an original theme song for the adventure series, Monsuno. The Monsuno theme song, produced by Martin Kierzenbaum, chairman of Cherrytree Records, is a high energy blend of hip-hop, pop, electro, and dance that is a signature of Far East Movement’s style and sound. This partnership marks the first time the group has created a theme song for an animated television series.
EPALS ACQUIRES
CARUS PUBLISHING
Carus Publishing Company (and its Cricket Magazine Group) has been acquired by ePals. In an effort to expand its home subscription base and provide additional content to its digital platforms, ePals Corporation, a public company, purchased all assets of family-owned global children’s publisher, Carus Publishing. Cricket, LadyBug, BabyBug, and Click, are the key titles of the 14 publications included in the sale. Synergy Licensing, licensing agent for Carus Publishing, will focus on expanding the Cricket Magazine Group’s brand portfolio by applying licensing and brand opportunities to appropriate product offerings in the marketplace.
SUPPERTIME TO HELP DEVELOP IMPOSSIMALS
SupperTime Entertainment will help develop the UK-based property, Impossimals. Created by husband-and-wife team Peter and Jayne Smith, Impossimals currently has more than 1.6 million art prints in circulation as well as two million greetings cards on the market in the UK. Ireland-based Telegael is the lead producer on a TV series for the property. SupperTime will manage the series’ merchandise and publishing, worldwide.
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HIT ENTERTAINMENT AND SIMON & SCHUSTER CHILDREN’S PUBLISHING
HIT Entertainment (now a division of Mattel) and Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing have agreed to a master publishing deal for the preschool property Mike the Knight in North America. The exclusive deal marks the brand’s first consumer product licensing agreement for the U.S. and Canada. Simon & Schuster’s imprint Simon Spotlight has acquired the rights to produce a variety of story, picture, novelty, activity, and coloring books, as well as non-interactive e-books, with new titles set to launch in the U.S. and Canada in 2013. The deal further expands HIT Entertainment’s work with Simon & Schuster, which signed on early last year as the UK and international publishing partner for Mike the Knight.
OLD BAY AND CRAB SOURCE
Old Bay, a McCormick & Company brand, partnered with Crab Source, LLC, a seafood processor and manufacturer, to offer Old Bay-seasoned frozen crab cakes. The line debuted in March at the 2012 Boston Seafood Show. Old Bay crab cakes will leverage the brand’s famous bold flavor and personality to offer consumers new ways to experience their favorite seasoning. The Old Bay crab cakes will be offered in a variety of sizes and available in stores this fall. The deal was brokered by Beanstalk, Old Bay’s licensing agency of record.
THE FRED ROGERS COMPANY AND AMERICAN CLASSICS
The Fred Rogers Company, producer of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, has partnered with American Classics to create a line of licensed T-shirts and apparel. The license was negotiated by Fred Rogers Company’s licensing agency, Brand Central.
SABAN AND SHOUT FACTORY
Shout Factory and Saban Brands announced a multi-year, multi-property alliance to bring Saban’s roster of entertainment properties to the home entertainment marketplace in the U.S. and Canada. The alliance provides Shout Factory with exclusive home entertainment packaged media (DVD/Blu-ray) and select digital rights to Saban Brands’ extensive catalog of properties including more than 700 episodes of Power Rangers (1993–2009); 92 episodes of VR Troopers (1994); 26 episodes of Ninja Turtles: The Next Mutation (1997); and 88 episodes of Beetleborgs (1996) for home entertainment releases and digital distribution across select entertainment platforms in North America. Shout Factory plans an aggressive rollout of Saban Brands television properties beginning this summer, including from individual programs as well as complete series.
JOESTER LORIA SIGNS OXFORD UNIVERSITY
Oxford Limited, the licensor for the University of Oxford’s brand licensing program, has appointed The Joester Loria Group (TJLG) as its agent for North America. The agency will develop the apparel and home furnishings categories for the U.S. and Canadian markets. The University’s world-class libraries and museums will provide a rich source of reference and source material for Oxford’s brand licensing program. Central to the brand licensing program is The University of Oxford name and coat of arms, as well as Oxford sports club marks. These assets have been captured in extensive style guides to provide licensees with turnkey designs and graphics.
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MIND CANDY AND SONY MUSIC
Mind Candy, Moshi Monsters’ creator, has partnered with Sony Music to further bolster its newly launched Moshi Monster Music label in the UK. Under the deal, Sony will handle the UK distribution of the label’s upcoming music releases. The pair kicked off with the launch of the debut album Moshi Monsters, Music Rox, now available at retail in the UK. The album features 12 tracks from Moshi characters. The album was written and produced in-house under the direction of Jason Perry, newly named head of music for Mind Candy.
FISHER-PRICE AND NICKELODEON
Fisher-Price, a subsidiary of Mattel, and Nickelodeon have signed a multi-year renewal of their global partnership to develop toys based on Nickelodeon’s preschool programs. As preschool master toy licensee, Fisher-Price will develop toys for its preschool TV series, such as Dora the Explorer and Team Umizoomi. Key product categories including infant and preschool toys, plush, figures, preschool vehicles, and playsets are covered under the agreement.
MARVISTA ENTERTAINMENT LICENSES RADIO REBEL
MarVista Entertainment has launched a comprehensive licensing program for Radio Rebel, The Disney Channel Original Movie based on the novel Shrinking Violet. It is the second production for Disney Channel produced with first time co-production partner Two 4 The Money Media. Brand Sense Partners, the brand extension agency for Radio Rebel, has secured merchandise partnerships, including CPO for bracelets and hair accessories; Scorpio Posters for printed gifts; and KJM, Jerry Leigh, and Ripple Junction for apparel. Merchandise will be available online and through independent retailers. Online retailers Café Press and Zazzle are developing a wide range of customizable products from notebooks, stickers, and magnets to apparel, headwear, and gifts. Online retailers will integrate marketing efforts with Radio Rebel’s social media and online components. The Ryan Seacrest Foundation will benefit from a portion of product sales.
VALENTINA AND MOONPIG.COM
MGL Licensing signed an exclusive online greetings card licensing deal with Moonpig.com for Valentina. Under the agreement Moonpig.com is offering Valentina’s personalized greeting cards, canvases, mugs, and T-shirts in the UK. U.S. licensees Andrew McMeel Publishing, C.R. Gibson, and Square One Brands are also actively producing and launching product across categories such as stationery and houseware.
COPCORP LICENSING SIGNS NEW PINK COOKIE DEALS
CopCorp Licensing signed two new licensees for the Pink Cookie fashion brand in Mexico. Jocar Products SA de CV has secured the rights to make and sell Pink Cookie geometric sets, crayons, color pencils, retractable pens, gel pens, markers, 3-D stickers, sharpeners, rulers, erasers, scissors, and plastic pencil cases. Granmark SA de CV will produce Pink Cookie gift bags, gift boxes, wrapping paper, stickers, decorated sheets, notepads, homework notebooks, cell phone charms, and pins.
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NEW PRODUCTS, NEW DEALS, HOT TRENDS
AC/DC Launches Wine Collection Down Under
Dirty Jobs Enters Cleaning Aisle
My Dirty Jobs, the newest entrant in the household cleaning market, is launching a broad line of heavy-duty cleaning products formulated to handle the dirtiest jobs. The line is inspired by the Discovery Channel series Dirty Jobs, part of Discovery Communications. The mydirtyjobs.com website launched in February. The line launched in March at Walmart stores across America. Later this year, additional My Dirty Jobs cleaning products will be available at major retail locations and specialty stores nationwide, including a bleach-powered bathroom cleaner, an oxygen-powered foaming cleanser, a carpet spray aerosol, a multi-surface cleaner, a laundry spot-remover, and a degreaser and hand sanitizer.
American Idol Signs Clothing Deal for Kohl’s
Kohl’s; FremantleMedia Enterprises; 19 Entertainment, a division of CKX, Inc.; LF USA, a subsidiary of Li & Fung Limited; and Bravado announced plans to launch an exclusive American Idol apparel collection. Bringing together fashion, music, and entertainment, the newly created American Idol fashion brand—Authentic Icon (AI)—is available exclusively at Kohl’s and Kohls.com now through June, to coincide with season 11 of American Idol.
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AC/DC has teamed up with the Australian winery Warburn Estate and Australian retailer Woolworths to create AC/DC The Wine. AC/DC The Wine selections will include Back in Black Shiraz, Highway to Hell Cabernet Sauvignon, Hells Bells Sauvignon Blanc, and You Shook Me All Night Long Moscato. It will be available at retail on August 18 in Dan Murphy’s, BWS, and Woolworths Liquor stores throughout Australia. AC/DC The Wine is sourced from the wine regions of Barossa, Coonawarra, and Marlborough. The wine is packaged in iconic AC/DC art. The deal was brokered by Live Nation Merchandising.
Zak Designs Offers Dinnerware with Character for College Kids
Zak Designs, manufacturer of licensed children’s dinnerware, will introduce a new line of dinnerware and drinkware targeted to college students. Zak’s new back-to-college line of mealtime products includes a durable dinner plate, individual bowl, and 24-ounce tumbler. The line also includes a 14-ounce double-wall travel tumbler and 25-ounce Tritan water bottle. Each item features Hello Kitty or a well-known character from The Muppets.
New Toasters Offer Tasty Domo-Branded Creations
Big Tent Entertainment continues to expand the Domo universe with the signing of Pangea Brands. The fan-based-item company is set to introduce a new series of Domo-branded toasters, sandwich makers, and shrinky dinks/Make it-Bake it items. The line is expected to hit specialty stores across the U.S. this summer.
Co-Branded Line to Fuse Fashion, Lifestyle, and Music
Authentic Brands Group, CBS Consumer Products, and CBS Interactive Music Group have entered a far-reaching agreement that will fuse fashion and lifestyle with the social music service Last.fm. The SilverStar Casting Company and Last.fm co-branded program will launch later this year and will include apparel, accessories, bags, headwear, and more. The worldwide deal also names Authentic Brands Group as exclusive worldwide licensing representative for Last.fm. SilverStar Casting Company, an Authentic Brands Group property, is deeply rooted in the underground subculture and embraced by young music enthusiasts.
Albert Einstein Licensed for Flash Drives, Card Readers
In celebration of Albert Einstein’s 133rd birthday, Mimoco, makers of the Mimobot and Mimicro M lines of designer USB flash drives and card readers, unveiled two new Einstein x Mimobot characters: Emcee2 Einstein and Brainstein. The new flash drives kick off Mimoco’s Legends of Mimobot series featuring a stylized take on icons, geniuses, and stars of the human race. The Einstein collection, available in up to 64GB and preloaded with bonus Mimory and the MimoDesk personalization suite of Einsteinthemed wallpapers, icons, and avatars, was developed in collaboration with The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the exclusive licensing agency for Einstein, GreenLight.
‘True Blood’ Creator to Launch Cookbook for Show Fans
Chronicle Books and HBO partnered for The True Blood Cookbook by series creator Alan Ball, with Karen Sommer Shallett and Marcelle Bienvenu. It is expected to launch this fall. The cookbook will feature photos from the show’s four seasons, side stories, and authentic southern recipes for the local fare of the world of Bon Temps.
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Strawberry Shortcake Style in Brazil
American Greetings Properties and licensing agents CPLG and Exim announced an expanded Strawberry Shortcake apparel deal with Malwee Malhas. Malwee Malhas has been renewed for girls’ apparel and will expand into Strawberry Shortcake Baby items in Brazil. The girls’ apparel line will be available in department stores and mass merchants as well as grocery, specialty, club, and independent stores throughout the region. The new Strawberry Shortcake Baby line will include shirts, dresses, jogging sets, pants, skirts, shorts, capri pants, and polo shirts. In addition to a retail presence, these items will also be available on www.malwee.com.br.
‘Ink’ing Consumer Products Deals
Discovery Communications announced the launch of a new consumer products program with its first partner, Sherry Manufacturing, based on the TLC series NY Ink. The line includes apparel featuring designs from NY Ink star Ami James. Sherry Manufacturing debuted the first collection of NY Ink apparel in February at Wooster Street Social Club, James’ new shop. The NY Ink products program is expected to include apparel, accessories, gift and novelty items, home décor, and publishing.
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Pepsi Fashion
Diet Pepsi partnered with designer Christian Cota to create a capsule collection inspired by the soda brand’s imagery through the decades. The Diet Pepsi x Christian Cota capsule collection will make its retail Christian Cota and Pepsi apparel debut this fall. The designs in the capsule collection reflect Cota’s take on the brand’s vintage graphics, while the collection’s iconic silhouettes capture styles inspired by the 1960s to modern day. These silhouettes include shift dresses, off-the-shoulder jersey sweaters, and skinny cuffed pants. Silk fabrics in the collection range from retro plaids to multicolored prints. The brand collaboration was developed by The Joester Loria Group, PepsiCo’s exclusive North American licensing agency.
Sperry Top-Sider Expands
Sperry Top-Sider signed three new license agreements. The new deals are with Hartmann for Sperry Top-Sider by Hartmann luggage; Geneva Watch Group for Sperry Top-Sider watches; and L’Amy America, a subsidiary of Group TWC-L’Amy, for Sperry Top-Sider sunglasses and ophthalmic eyewear. These new partners will work closely with Sperry’s design and marketing teams to create their specific product collections. Each partner will be responsible for the marketing and distribution to retailers across the U.S. and Canada. The new product collections will launch in spring 2013 in the brand’s wholly owned Sperry Top-Sider specialty retail stores, sperrytopsider.com, premium department stores, and additional specialty retailers in the U.S. and Canada.
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B
SHANNON LEE
Shannon Lee Bruce Lee Enterprises Phone: (310) 451–9990 Email: shannon@brucelee.com
by Jennifer Lynch
efore Shannon Lee took over licensing for her father Bruce Lee, Universal Studios held the exclusive rights and representatives handled much of the business on her mother’s behalf. As an adult she knew about the property, but because her mother wasn’t very hands-on, that knowledge was limited. In late 2000, Lee decided to get more involved with the estate and took a closer look at the licensing program. Although she didn’t have any experience in business, she recognized a need for improvement. “Seeing . . . how someone else was running [the property], it gave me a sense of what I thought was working well, what was not working, and what could be better,” she says. “I always felt like it could be more thoughtfully operated if someone put the time and effort in.” She became that someone. After the long process to reacquire the rights from Universal ended in 2008, Lee, left with at most three licensees, established Bruce Lee Enterprises the same year. “We had this idea that we were going to build a stable of licensees right away,” she says. Then the recession hit. But she considered the lack of licensees a lucky break. “Even in a bad economy we were able to add licensees because we just didn’t have any,” she says. Signing licensees particularly in the action figure and collectibles category helped the company overcome initial financial hurdles and licensees such as Round 5 and Enterbay continue to be a critical part of
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Bruce Lee’s portfolio. Round 5 will expand its Bruce Lee Fanatiks action figures line with series two set to launch in August. A lack of licensing experience was not something that held Lee back. “I’ve always been cognizant of what I don’t know,” she says. “If I don’t know something, I’m eager to find people who do know and can advise me in those regards.” And using her father’s legacy as her guiding light, she says it’s easy to make decisions and keep priorities in order. While her father is most well known for martial arts, action, and dragons, Lee is also focused on highlighting the philosophic and holistic qualities that permeated how he lived life. “Obviously he represents strength, action, and speed, but he also, to me, represents inspiration, fearlessness, and all these different things that the general public might not recognize,” she says. “We’re able to put that into their conscience by putting his quotes on product and engaging with the public through social media and the video logs on our website.” The company recently signed a deal with French perfume manufacturer Chkoudra Paris to create a Bruce Lee fragrance collection for men, which launched in February in the Middle East. Each of the three scents— Be Water, Anger Blind, and Don’t Think Feel—expresses a different quality of Bruce Lee. Be Water is an elegant scent that plays off a Bruce Lee quote. “Anger Blind is
stronger, spicier, and sporty and has those types of quotes on the packaging,” Lee says. “Don’t Think Feel is much more mellow and woody and has philosophical musings on the packaging. It’s nice to get to represent him within one collection in a variety of ways.” Leeway Media Group—a production company producing Bruce Lee content for TV, film, and the web that Lee also started in 2008, has helped bolster her effort to keep her father’s name and legacy top of mind for consumers. Now with a solid stable of licensees, Lee is able to focus her attention on more creative business opportunities. Although not fully realized, Lee says creating a Bruce Lee Enterprise headquarters in China and Southeast Asia to establish a physical presence there is on the agenda. And, through the Bruce Lee Foundation, plans were announced to build the Bruce Lee Action Museum, an educational facility that will look at Bruce Lee’s legacy of action beyond martial arts. The museum will be based in Seattle, which was once his home in the U.S. As the museum works to become a reality so too will an expanded licensing program, and it’s Lee’s connection to her father that will make it a reality. “I obviously know a lot about him and his life,” she says. “I have access to his things, his writings, which helps.” It’s these personal touches that will help fans of Bruce Lee as well as the next generation develop an affinity for his brand.
√ √ √ √
Licensing Show Coverage App Trend Feature Video Games Feature E3 Coverage * Distribution: Licensing Show
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F
THE JARDEN CORPORATION’S
by Jennifer Lynch
rom its roots as a lighting company, The Coleman Company, Inc., has grown into a leading brand and manufacturer of camping gear and outdoor equipment. W.C. Coleman founded Coleman in 1901. At the time, he was working as a typewriter salesman in Brockton, Ala., when he came across a new type of lamplight on display in a drugstore window. Struggling with poor eyesight himself, this particular light caught his eye. Fueled by gasoline, it burned brighter and stronger than typical lights of the time, which burned kerosene and often produced a smoky flickering, yellow flame. In the light, not only was Coleman able to clearly see the smallest print in books, but he also gained a different kind of vision. This vision led to the creation of a lighting company that brought the new lighting technology to farms, homes, and ranches across the country. The Coleman lantern lengthened the time farmers and ranchers could work, and thus changed the workday for rural America. The Coleman lantern, and later pocket stove, also proved invaluable products to the U.S. military during both World Wars. By the 1950s, the brand expanded to include camping equipment and reinvented the cooler. And by the 1960s, it moved beyond core camping products for outdoor recreation, adding additional outdoor brands to its portfolio, including Sevylor (floats and towables), Stearns (life vests), Hodgman (waders), Mad Dog Gear (ATV accessories), and Helium (sports vests). It has also put together a comprehensive licensing program with the help of its licensing agency Brand Central. Now operating as a subsidiary of the Jarden Corpo- Wisconsin Pharmacal Company offers a modern twist on the original Coleman lantern featuring ration, the brand can be found across multiple categories a citronella candle inside to repel mosquitoes. The candle burns for up to 40 hours. including footwear, pharmaceuticals, electric pumps, air conditioners, watch and fashion accessories, and trailers. Most recently Brand Central signed Bull Outdoor Products to produce a Coleman-licensed line of free-standing barbecue grills and built-in barbecue grills for outdoor use. The anticipated release date for these items is 2013.
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Fast Facts
• World War II journalist Ernie Pyle devoted 15 news articles to the Coleman pocket stove and considered it one of the two most important pieces of noncombat equipment in the war effort, the other being the Jeep. • Coleman created three iPhone apps including the Coleman Campfire Tales featuring collections of scary campfire stories for kids, teens, and adults. • In 1957, Coleman introduced the first non-metal cooler using heat sheet plastic for insulation. • Consumers place Colemanbranded products into three categories: core camping, transitional use beyond camping, and non-camping.
FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO.
EASTMAN
Eastman has been the Coleman footwear licensee for more than 10 years, offering a line that ranges from athletic and casual to hiking shoes.
DUTCHMEN MANUFACTURING
Franklin Electric Co., Inc., offers an extensive line of Coleman-licensed sump pumps. Products can be found exclusively at Menard’s retail locations.
Dutchmen Manufacturing offers an extensive line of Coleman travel trailers and fifth wheel trailers. Options include the Coleman Super Saver Travel Trailers, Coleman Large Slide Travel Trailers, Coleman Ultra-Lite Travel Trailers, and Coleman Mid-Profile Fifth Wheels.
WISCONSIN PHARMACAL COMPANY, LLC
Wisconsin Pharmacal Company, LLC released a line of Colemanbranded repellents and first aid products. Products include deet-free to 40 percent deet repellent, yard fogger, and first aid kits.
GOLDEN STATE IMPORTS INTERNATIONAL
Golden State Imports International’s line of Coleman-branded watches ranges from basic to fashion-forward pieces for active wear indoors and outdoors.
JOHNSON CONTROLS
Johnson Controls, Inc., offers a comprehensive line of Coleman-licensed HVAC units for consumer and industrial needs.
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Food & Beverage Licensing: Feeding Consumer Demands BY JENNIFER LYNCH
Evriholder Products launched its first Nesquiklicensed products: the Nestlé Nesquik Puzz-L-Mug (pictured) and the Nestlé Nesquik Sip’R Eyes drinking straw glasses. The deal was brokered by Beanstalk for Nesquik.
Focus Brands signed Good Foods Group to create a line of Moe’s Guacamole.
Golden Country Farms offers a licensed line of IHOP At Home frozen breakfast items. The Valen Group is the exclusive licensing agency for IHOP.
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ike the selection in a grocery aisle, food and beverage licensing can be diverse and complex. The category has sub-segments that usually focus on flavor profiles, colors, and/or the brand’s history. Licensors must walk a fine line of staying true to the flavor profile and richness of a brand—which are engrained in consumers’ minds— while navigating trends to keep the brand fresh. Brands must take note of how society’s tastes evolve and one evolution as of late has been “better-for-you” options. Consumer awareness is growing with regard to ingredients and preservatives as well as food allergies. Brands across all price points are addressing these consumer concerns. “For a brand like Moe’s [Southwest Grill], we have a specific food mission that’s focused on ethical sourcing of proteins like chicken and beef, organic tofu, and other really healthy menu options,” says Cara Becker, vicepresident, consumer products licensing, Focus Brands. “Our job in licensing is to try to translate that into product that makes sense in the marketplace. By working with new suppliers or looking at different packaging options, we can deliver healthier options.” For Moe’s-licensed guacamole, Focus Brands tapped Good Foods Group, which specializes in high-pressure pasteurization (HPP) packaging that seals the container in a way that extends the product’s shelf life without having to add preservatives. Healthy options are great for any consumer, but for some, it’s not simply an option but a medical necessity. This is due to the rise of food-related allergies. “Consumers are taking a closer look at ingredient panels in determining purchase intent,” says Ross Misher, president of Brand Central. Another sector that Misher anticipates will soon open up to licensing in response to the rise of product aimed at consumers with food allergies is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free products. According to the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network, more than 15 million Americans have food allergies with the highest prevalence among young children. Although no licensors interviewed have tapped into this yet, “there is an opportunity for licensing to appeal to kids with allergies,” Misher says—and to parents who are making the purchase. When you’re given a choice as a parent, you want the healthier option, says Allison Kopcha, executive vice-president, North America, The Licensing Company (TLC). But for consumers without allergies, living solely off organic and locally sourced foods is often unrealistic. “For many families, it’s just not an option for economic as well as practical reasons,” she says. But offering items that may be lower in fat or sugars is practical. TLC’s client Welch’s teamed up with Nature’s Touch to develop a line of frozen fruits, which launched across all retail channels this year. “Frozen is just as great as fresh and in some cases better because it really packs in the nutrients,” Kopcha says. “And it gives families the opportunity to provide, whether it’s used as a dessert topping or for making smoothies, a ‘better-for-you’ treat.”
Restaurants Hit the Fridge Restaurant brands are finding new ways to engage consumers as the shift away from eating out and toward eating at home continues. The frozen foods aisle, in particular, has allowed restaurant brands to translate their popular menu options into everyday meals. “For consumers, the decision to dine out is driven by a number of factors including the experience and convenience,” says Nancy Bailey, vice-chairman of Beanstalk. “The products at grocery, however, are an alternative that allows consumers to capture part of that experience from home. When consumers decide to dine in, their appetite for familiar, trusted restaurant menu items remains strong.” Bringing restaurant brands to consumers at home can also introduce the brand into new markets ahead of geographic expansion or introduce them to new cultural cuisine. Beanstalk will leverage the bold Mexican flavors of Rosa Mexicano restaurants to provide consumers with new ways to experience the restaurant’s authentic Mexican food at home. The Valen Group also capitalized on the eatat-home trend by launching IHOP for frozen breakfast last year and plans to expand the line in the coming months. “Convenience remains the leading trend when it comes to purchasing at the grocery store,” says Janna Markle, vice-president, strategic brand licensing, The Valen Group. “While the perimeter of the store sales continue to grow with fresh solutions in deli, bakery, and seafood, convenient meal solutions are very important to households.” A History of Lifestyle For some food and beverage brands, their long histories in the marketplace have allowed
above: The Diet Pepsi collection by Christian Cota below: SPAM-branded Sidewalk Surfer sandals from Sanuk
them to move beyond their flavor profiles and tie into lifestyle as well. When leveraging the brand outside of its original category, such as beverage, it is best to focus on products that enrich the beverage experience and categories that complement those occasions, says Kate Dwyer, group director of worldwide licensing for The CocaCola Company. For Coca-Cola, which does not actively participate in food licensing, that means relying on its decades of art and designs featured across its iconic advertising and packaging. “As a result, we have rich, deep archives with more than 30,000 images cleared for use,” she says. “While some images transcend category segmentation, we typically map designs by product type and retail tier and selectively distribute to our licens-
ee base. This has ensured relevance across multiple categories.” Apparel is now the company’s largest merchandise category, accounting for more than 50 percent of its total product. PepsiCo, with the help of its exclusive North American licensing agency The Joester Loria Group, established beverage brand Diet Pepsi’s presence at New York Fashion Week in February with the launch of a capsule collection in partnership with emerging designer Christian Cota. The collection was inspired by the decades of iconic designs that Pepsi has used in its marketing and advertising. The line will debut at retail this fall. Design is not the only way to tap into a food or beverage brand’s history. For some, a longstanding consumer base can aid licensing efforts. SPAM, celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, has benefited from its history rooted in Hawaiian culture and the affinity those within the surfing community have for the brand. “It’s opened the door for us to become partial sponsors of the Waikiki SPAM Jam Festival held each year in Hawaii, where a variety of SPAM merchandise is sold,” says Nicole Behne, product manager of SPAM at Hormel Foods. It has also created licensing opportunities for the brand for surf products such as a recent deal with surf brand Sanuk to create a SPAM-branded line of Sidewalk Surfer shoes and sandals. But no matter what category a brand enters, the best way to ensure it resonates with consumers is by sticking to its core elements. For brands focused specifically on their flavor profile, taste will always be king; restaurant brands will find success in recreating the dining-out experience at home; and a strong history can always help bring a brand outside the grocery aisles.
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FOOD
AND
BY JENNIFER LYNCH
BEVERAGE LICENSING
The elements tied to food and beverage brands, such as flavor profiles and history, have opened up licensing opportunities across an array of product categories. Below is a sampling of the latest licensed product.
BEANSTALK
Rasta Imposta will introduce the first licensed banana costume to the Halloween industry featuring the Chiquita brand. Chiquita Banana costumes will come in all sizes, including baby bunting, toddler, adult, plus size, and pet. Chiquita and Rasta Imposta will also offer distribution in the UK. The deal was brokered by Beanstalk, Chiquita’s licensing agency.
FIREFLY BRAND MANAGEMENT
Firefly Brand Management is expanding the SPAM brand for Hormel Foods, inking consumer products deals worldwide. Surf Shoe brand Sanuk will produce SPAM-branded Sidewalk Surfer shoes (pictured). Other new licensees include Headline Entertainment (T-shirts), Rizzoli USA (calendars), Aquarius (stationery and novelty), and Rasta Imposta (costumes).
THE JOESTER LORIA GROUP
Dura-Kleen adds a new Minis collection to its line of Entenmann’s Bakeware, which currently includes Classic and Ultimate bakeware products. The Minis collection will be designed especially for kids. The deal was brokered by Entenmann’s licensing agent The Joester Loria Group. The line is set to launch this fall. Pictured is Entenmann’s Classic loaf pan and cookie sheet.
UNILEVER
In its first cross-brand product partnership, Hellmann’s, a Unilever brand, announced the launch of a limited edition flavor: Hellmann’s Spicy Buffalo with Frank’s RedHot. The flavor combines the creaminess of Hellmann’s mayonnaise mixed with Frank’s authentic Buffalo flavor.
THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
The Coca-Cola Company partnered with the International Olympic Committee to release a capsule collection of Coca-Cola and Olympics dual-branded merchandise in select countries around the world. Coca-Cola has been involved with the Olympic Games since 1928.
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THE LICENSING COMPANY
Little Kids is expanding its line of Jelly Belly-licensed bubbles for 2012 with new items, such as the Jelly Belly No-Spill Mini Bubble Bucket and the Jelly Belly No-Spill Bubble Whistle. Both items are available in three Jelly Belly scents: Very Cherry, Green Apple, and Grape Jelly. Two ounces of Jelly Belly-scented bubble solution is included. The Licensing Company represents Jelly Belly for licensing.
DYLAN’S CANDY BAR
Dylan’s Candy Bar is expanding its co-branded collection of candy-inspired arts & crafts with Alex with five new craft kits for 2012. Kits include My Chocolate Shop, My Sweet Scrapbook, Arm Candy, Bling A Candy Jewelry Box, and Color 4 Sweet Headbands (pictured left).
THE VALEN GROUP
Biltmore Estate expanded its gourmet food line this year with a new line of premium, cold smoked salmon and hake under a new agreement with Seven Seas International USA. The smoked salmon comes in four-ounce packages in three varieties: Scottish Smoked Salmon, Gravlax with Dill Sauce, and Wild Sockeye Smoked Salmon. A six-ounce Norwegian Fillet Royale Smoked Salmon is also available. The deal was brokered by Biltmore Estate’s licensing agency The Valen Group.
MARS RETAIL GROUP
Candyrific has paired Mars Retail Group’s M&M characters with Lucasfilms Star Wars characters to offer a line of novelty candy/toy items such as M&M’s Star Wars fans, nine-inch and 12-inch dispensers, light-up sabers, and coin banks. The latest licensed item, which launched this month, is the M&M’s Star Wars Character Flashlight with Clip.
MRS. FIELDS FAMOUS BRANDS
TCBY: The Country’s Best Yogurt has partnered with Spring Creek Holdings for a new line of prepackaged frozen yogurt, TCBYGrocery. The line will be sold at approximately 10,000 stores nationwide including national retailers such as Walmart and Super Target stores, and regional retailers such as A&P, Stop & Shop, Food Lion, and Giant. TCBY is owned by Mrs. Fields Famous Brands.
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BRAND LICENSING: THE NEW DEAL BY
CHRIS ADAMS
n order to be successful in today’s marketplace, a brand must have a well-defined image. In most cases, the best brands have a long track record of success in the market. The big brands that succeed in this space carry with them a sense of the past, of longevity, and of tradition. However, in today’s brand and brand-licensing landscape, there really isn’t a lot of room for the traditional way business has been conducted. Licensing deals are being drawn up differently, brands are branching into new channels of distribution (and worldwide regions), and licensing agencies today have to offer more than just licensing-related services in order to compete. Stiff retail competition and an uncertain economy have made innovation crucial for a brand’s success every step of the way. “There are still plenty of RFPs floating out there for the standard license deal,” says Carla Dearing, managing director and CEO of IMC. “More and more, we are not participating in them. They are based on the historical business model of low- to no-fee deals where you throw the spaghetti against the wall and see what sticks.” The reason that brand owners and licensing agencies have had to adjust their strategies is because the old way of doing business just isn’t suited to today’s competitive marketplace. With limited available shelf space, retailers are looking for something innovative to fill the gaps in their offerings. “The traditional partner that does things the way they’ve always been done—as an agency or manufacturer—just doesn’t cut through anymore,” says Allison Kopcha, executive vice-president, North America, The Licensing Company (TLC). “Everything we have to do at every point of the cycle—how we’re structuring deals to the type of products we’re developing to the type of marketing support we’re offering our clients—has to be innovative and add value.” While searching out innovation and focusing on a fine-tuned strategy certainly require more resources on the part of licensing agencies, this work opens up more possible opportunities for the agencies as well as their clients. By forgoing the standard low-fee, high-royalty licensing deals of yesterday, agencies that operate on a more consulting fee-based model are open for additional opportunities for strategic brand work beyond the licensing realm. “Licensing is a type of partnership, but there are other types of partnerships, too,” says IMC’s Dearing. “By having the capability to expand the definition of partnerships, and look much more broadly at what those partnerships could be, allows for much bigger opportunities for our clients.”
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TLC says it has distribution in almost every channel for its Anheuser-Busch InBev program, which is driven by apparel from licensees such as C-Life, which manufactured the above Budweiser T-shirt.
EXPANDING DISTRIBUTION
Beyond focusing on innovative partnerships that expand brands beyond licensing, licensors are also innovating in terms of sales channel and distribution territory. This is nothing terribly new, but in today’s competitive environment, these deals have to be even smarter and more strategic. “As the retail landscape changes, brands will need to stake their claim for shelf space at non-traditional retail outlets,” says Allison Ames, president, North America, Beanstalk. “Consumers will begin to see their favorite brands at unexpected retailers such as grocery stores, family discount, and value outlets; specialty stores; direct-response networks such as QVC and HSN; and, of course, online.” Beyond channels of distribution, the brand licensing industry continues to see success through international expansion. There is more room for both
traditional and non-traditional licensing deals in less-exploited territories, such as Latin America, South America, China, India, and Asia Pacific. “When I first started in licensing, I worked in international and I couldn’t do a deal in Latin America to save my life,” says TLC’s Kopcha. “Now that is a very big priority for our business and our licensors.”
lose some control over their equity by trusting another company to deliver the same product quality and performance as the core brand,” says Brand Central’s Misher. “When brands build strategic licensing programs that are validated with consumer research and managed correctly, they can achieve enhanced brand value while generating significant revenue.”
WHAT BRANDS MEAN
CHALLENGE AND OPPORTUNITY
The changes to the brand licensing business So what exactly do brands mean in the marover the past few years have captured an industry that is increasing the level of investment— ketplace of 2012? How will signs of an improving economy in dollars and manpowaffect the branded marer—necessary to comketplace? Even in a pete. As more legwork weak or uncertain is conducted before economy, brands play inking a deal, the at least as important of industry has become a role as price does. more refined. Properly “One of the biggest managing a brand calls myths in economic for a seamless integratheory is ‘the rational tion of core product, consumer’,” says Rob marketing message, Beanstalk announced a licensing agreement with Frankel, branding and licensed product. Bower to produce a line of Energizer-branded camera accessories. expert and author of “Corporate brand The Revenge of Brand licensing has evolved into true extensions of the core business,” says X: How to Build A Big Time Brand on the Web Ross Misher, CEO, Brand Central. “Consumers or Anywhere Else. “If that were the case, are often not aware these are extensions as they every purchase would likely go to the lowest bidder. For instance, people say they buy cars are so aligned with the brand.” Of course, this seamless integration of brand for transportation, but if that were the case and licensing program carries with it some risks. everyone would drive Hyundais, and Porsche Without separation between these two areas, would go broke.” Frankel says that right now is an ideal time licensees are required to deliver homerun prodto invest in a true brand strategy. “As the ucts or else risk sullying a brand. “By choosing the wrong partner, brands can economy recovers, purchasing power will
grow and the brands that are soundest will outperform the others,” he says. “However, for that to happen, those brands will have to engage a true brand strategy in which their prospects perceive them as the only solution to their problem.” Signs of a stabilizing, or even improving, economy have begun to have an influence on consumers’ mindset. If positive news continues to make its way onto the financial pages, opportunities for strong brands will grow. “While global economies are still struggling, the overall impression is that there is a steady increase in both confidence and consumer buying,” says Matthew Young, head of Electrolux global brand licensing. “That means corporate brands benefit by being trusted and yet prestigious, so that consumers can begin ‘stepping up’ again.”
PARTNERSHIP
In this day and age, strategic partnerships are the cornerstone of today’s brand management and brand licensing business. Brand owners expect their licensing agency of record to offer services beyond the licensing realm. And through partnership, brand owners can offer the types of innovations—in terms of product and marketing—that are necessary to compete. The idea of feeding innovation through a partnership at a far lower cost than it takes to develop that innovation in-house is much more necessary than it was even a decade ago. What it requires to position a brand for success—for both its core and licensed products—is a sharp, strategic approach every single step of the way.
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BRAND LICENSING BY
CHRIS ADAMS
In today’s marketplace, attaching a powerful brand gives a licensed product a lot of weight, but without the correct execution even the most powerful brands will fall flat. Brand licensing is a business that is increasing the level of investment necessary to compete. Properly managing a brand calls for a seamless integration of core product, marketing message, and licensed product. Below is just a sampling of the branded products set to hit retail shelves this year.
BEANSTALK
Beanstalk announced an agreement between Energizer and Bower, which will manufacture products including digital camera batteries; camera battery chargers; DSLR flashes, battery grips, and remotes; memory card readers; LED lights; flash accessories; and travel plug adapters.
GLOBAL ICONS
Global Icons announced that its client BMW has partnered with BALL Watch Company to launch a line of BMWbranded watches. Global Icons says that BALL and BMW share the same values in precision engineering, spirit of innovation, and consistent attention to technical and aesthetic excellence.
SABAN BRANDS
Saban Brands announced its partnership with MZ Berger, for the production of Paul Frank timepieces. The collaboration offers classic Paul Frank designs with a contemporary aesthetic.
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THE LICENSING COMPANY
TLC brokered a deal for its Anheuser-Busch InBev program between barbecue sauce licensee Vita Foods, Tyson Foods, the Milk Advisory Board, and Fleischmann’s to cross-promote recipes as well as the Budweiser brand.
BRAND CENTRAL
Brand Central brokered a deal between its client Coleman and Bull Outdoor Products that will allow Bull Outdoor to manufacture Coleman-branded outdoor living and tailgating products. Brand Central says the deal aligns Coleman brand deliverables with these adjacent categories. For an in-depth look at Coleman’s licensing program see page 16.
IMC
IMC signed Primary One Brands as a licensee for the Borghese brand. Primary One will develop a Borghese-branded line of hair care products for both men and women.
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For Movie Studios, Licensing Is All About Strategy BY LAURIE LEAHEY
Upcoming 2013 Movie Releases • The Croods (DreamWorks) – March 22, 2013 • Iron Man 3 (Marvel/Disney) – May 3, 2013 • The Fast & The Furious 6 (Universal) – May 24, 2013 • After Earth (Sony) – June 7, 2013 • Monsters University (Disney/Pixar) – June 21, 2013 • Despicable Me 2 (Universal) – July 3, 2013 film image from Turbo
• Turbo (DreamWorks) – July 19, 2013 • The Smurfs 2 (Sony) – August 2, 2013 • Thor 2 (Marvel/Disney) – November 15, 2013 • Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2: Revenge of the Leftovers (Sony) – TBD 2013
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ell before a movie hits theaters, movie studios are signing licensees and developing licensed product. However, creating licensing programs for a film before its release can be a challenge. The studios can oftentimes only guess at how well the movie will do at the box office, and retailers are wary of purchasing licensed product without knowing if people will actually buy it. “If you look at what happened fourth quarter of last year, a lot of the big family films didn’t fare as well as the studios had expected,” says Greg Economos, senior vice-president, global consumer products, Sony Pictures Consumer Products. “It’s tough to gauge what you feel the customer is going to want to go see or buy.” It’s up to the studios to make sure they are choosing the right movies for licensing programs and choosing the appropriate product categories. After all, it’s not just retailers who want to see the licensed product sell. The multi-billion dollar film licensing business benefits the movie studios, too. “It’s important financially, and it’s also important from a consumer brand equity standpoint,” says Kerry Phelan, head of global licensing and consumer products, DreamWorks. “It allows us to extend the consumer experience beyond the movie theater and really build equity in our characters and our stories, enabling them to become long-term franchises. You have another way to engage with consumers and allow them to take a piece of the movie home with them.”
Early Stages
In order to develop good products and get them on store shelves on time, most studios begin developing a licensing program about two years before the movie’s release date. “Even before it’s greenlit, we’ll get a copy of the script and kind of a pitch from the production entity . . . and we really try and assess whether or not it makes sense for us to even do a program,” says Sony’s Economos. He says Sony releases between 20–25 films a year but only chooses two or three for licensing. And not all three films will have broad licensing programs, a result of licensing within the movie industry becoming more targeted. In 2013, Sony is developing big programs for Smurfs 2 and the Will Smith movie After Earth. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2: Revenge of the Leftovers will have a more targeted program in softlines and games. Amy Taylor, executive vice-president, partnerships and licensing at Universal Pictures, says that Universal develops broad licensing programs for one to two films a year with licensing for the rest of the film slate focused on a specific target market. Taylor says there are two factors a film must have for a broad program: it must connect with consumers across multiple age ranges and it must lend itself to key licensing categories, such as toys, apparel, and back to school. For more targeted films, “it’s finding the right nugget in the content of the film and going after it in a very specific
way,” she says. For this summer’s Snow White and are lots of things for them to choose from,” she the Huntsman, Universal chose to focus on the says. “They are also in a position where they want film’s costumes and translate them into what is to make sure the product they put on shelves sells, fashionable today. There are three anchor retail which is our main objective as well.” Last year, programs for the film, but they couldn’t be Universal partnered with Walmart to have the announced at press time. movie Hop sponsor the store’s Easter/seasonal Universal is taking inspiration from Snow White DreamWorks looks at two things when assessdepartment. A portion of the product sold in that and the Huntsman’s costumes for a fashion-focused licensing program. The movie stars Charlize Theron. ing licensing strategies: does the movie have department was Hop-licensed, but the other porstrong characters and stories that create a strong tion was other seasonal merchandise. “The emotional bond with consumers and to whom does the film appeal? approach we have is to sit down and talk to them strategically and make sure “Consumers have to have a real affinity for these characters in order to want that each retailer has a program that feels unique to them and that will help to wear them on a T-shirt or carry them on a backpack,” DreamWorks’ Phelan them drive their merchandise sales,” Taylor says. says. She says that next year’s summer film Turbo, which is the story of a snail that wants to win the Indianapolis 500, has racing and vehicle play built into The Right Product Another way to appeal to both retailers and consumers is to keep up with its DNA, lending itself to a broad, collectible, and engaging program. Mattel market trends, such as the convergence of digital technology and traditional has already signed on for toys. play patterns. Last year DCP introduced its AppMATes line of toys featuring Journey to Retail characters from Cars 2. The physical toys come to life in the digital world The Marvel brand name and the recognition of its classic superheroes when used with an iPad. “Consumers are very much adapting to new technolwould appear to give the company an advantage when it comes to getting retail ogy,” says Jonathan Symington, vice-president and general manager, livespace. Perhaps that would be the case in a normal economy, but Paul Gitter, action studio licensing, DCP. “Children want to experience different things on senior vice-president, Marvel Licensing for Disney Consumer Products different platforms whenever they want. We feel that it’s important as an (DCP), says that whether it’s a gangbuster property or something new, retail industry leader to be participating in these different technologies.” buyers are being conservative. “The assortments behind some of the most sucMarvel’s Gitter says his company is “starting to see a lot of the tabletcessful films over the past couple years have been very narrow,” he says. type play patterns stem into some of the traditional product categories that “[Retailers are] buying a lot closer to the release dates, and they’re not sup- you would see targeted at our customers.” As a result, new electronic toys porting the films as long after the films as they used to.” The only solution, for this year’s The Avengers and The Amazing Spider-Man along with next according to Gitter, is to “demonstrate that you do have a strategy in place that year’s Iron Man 3 and Thor 2 will feature tablet-esque technology and takes that film well beyond the 12–16-month theatrical window. It’s not good more interactivity between the toy and the consumer. enough to go to the buyer and say, ‘Hey, we’ve got The Avengers coming out.’ Whether or not a licensed product utilizes technology, it still has to Now it’s got to be, ‘We have The Avengers coming out, and between this make sense for the movie and appeal to the movie’s fans. With so many Avengers and the next Avengers, it will be surrounded by strong digital and entertainment and film properties proliferating in the marketplace, fighting social media. There will be interactive games that come out in the marketplace. for retailers’ and consumers’ attention is a challenge. In order for movie There will be animation.’ So that really acts as the catalyst to excite the retail studios to reap the financial benefits of licensing, they need to have a solid buyer, and thus the consumer, into continuing to support the property.” strategy in place to get retail buyers to sign off. And then the licensed prodUniversal’s Taylor agrees that strategy is important when it comes to con- uct that retailers put on their shelves has to deliver for consumers, taking vincing retailers to sign off on licensed product without knowing how an audi- them beyond the 90-minute movie theater experience and allowing them ence will respond to the movie. “Retailers are in a great position in that there to take home a piece of the movie they love.
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Licensing Keeps Viewers Tuned in to TV Brands BY LAURIE LEAHEY
ith so many TV shows and TV channels, not For Awkward, MTV and licensee Delia’s tested to mention different platforms for watchan apparel program last fall. The success of that ing shows, keeping a network or show program and Awkward’s season two renewal top-of-mind with consumers is important. It’s also gave MTV the greenlight to expand the apparel becoming more difficult. To deal with this audience program and look into jewelry, social expresfragmentation and keep consumers tuned in, TV netsions, and novelty. MTV is also collaborating with works turn to licensing. “From a marketing standpoint, the show’s wardrobe designer to help the network when you can get product into retail, the brand is on and licensees create product that feels authentic to above: Top Chef-branded Healthy Choice those products in every major retailer across the counthe brand. “It’s not about integrating into the show entrees from ConAgra Foods below: MTV is working on an expanded try, so for a consumer to see that . . . it has tremendous where [the cast is] now wearing a piece of product apparel line for Awkward. value even when the show isn’t on the air,” says Jennifer that screams Awkward,” Silfen says. “We will pick Turner, vice-president of licensing and strategic partnerup on themes and trends in the juniors’ space and ships, Bravo Media. “Creating experiences that live merchandise the product with that in mind.” beyond the TV screen . . . does help to create more conFor The Jim Henson Company, at the initial stage sumer connections to the brand.” of property development, the company isn’t thinking But finding a show that’s the right fit for a licensabout licensing, but rather what would make a great ing program can be difficult. As Turner says, for entertainment property. “Once something is moving newer shows and franchises, it takes awhile to figure along toward potential greenlight, we, as a company, out what brand extensions make sense and what marbecome very interested in what opportunities we keting strategy is best. In October, Bravo and licenshave to extend this brand beyond TV into other types ee ConAgra Foods released Top Chef co-branded of products, whether it be a full, very broad range of Healthy Choice frozen entrees. The products were integrated into season 9 product like we have with Dinosaur Train or more specific product like we of Top Chef, and ConAgra was one of the show’s sponsors. The network have with Sid the Science Kid,” says Melissa Segal, senior vice-president, also held a competitive web series. The winner, Ryan Scott, became the global consumer products at Henson. spokesperson for the Top Chef Healthy Choice line. “It’s not just a sepaHenson launched Pajanimals last year on PBS Kids Sprout, and is rate licensing deal,” Turner says. “We coordinate all the other parts of the only beginning to launch licensed product for it this year. For some of network—programming, ad sales, digital, marketing—to create a market- its as-yet-unnamed 2013 shows, Henson won’t launch product until ing platform that can organically launch and support a product.” 2014. The company knows that not every show can translate into a fullMTV also held off on launching consumer products programs for two of blown licensing program, and so Henson takes its time to determine its shows, Awkward and Teen Wolf, until the network could be sure that the what will work. “We need to figure out, based on the core attributes of shows were resonating with fans and that licensees could produce products the show, what would make sense and what the marketplace would that felt authentic to the shows. “You need to see if it’s going to check on-air understand and accept,” Segal says. and online before you’re going to launch any kind of big program, unless you Once networks and entertainment developers identify what shows have a series that is inherently built on something pre-existing that [has] a make sense for licensing programs, they must keep in mind the show’s proven track record,” says Lisa Silfen, senior vice-president, program enter- core attributes in order to develop product that feels authentic to the show. prises, MTV. “People want to know that you have some success behind you In a time of audience fragmentation, strategically thought-out licensed and you have traction with the consumer. It’s very hard to launch a new mer- product can give viewers new experiences beyond the television screen chandise franchise on an unknown property.” and give them reason to tune in to their favorite shows.
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Designed for Success: An Artistic Approach to Licensing BY JENNIFER LYNCH
The Dena Home plates pictured are part of a collection created for C.R. Gibson, featuring patterns that also complement a Dena Designs women’s fashion accessory line and multiple stationery collections. The plates are made of melamine.
MGL Licensing client Valentina signed a deal with Moonpig.com for personalized greeting cards, canvases, mugs, and T-shirts.
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rt is not something that simply hangs in a museum. It’s what surrounds us everyday and makes life more enjoyable. And that enjoyment is something that can be expressed in countless ways, which is where art licensing enters the picture. From greeting cards and aprons to home décor, art is an element that adds to a consumer’s day. Art remains a matter of personal preference, of course. Even licensors have differing opinions of which subjects are trending (wildlife, wine, humor, etc.). But when it comes to factors that make art marketable, opinions don’t differ. “Good art, on a commercial/licensing level, is art that connects with the aesthetic and/or emotional sensibilities of a large enough segment of the population to motivate meaningful sales at retail,” says Mickey Marks, managing director at Lisa Marks Associates (LMA). Responding to the emotional needs of consumers is also part of the art licensing equation, says Lance Klass, president of Porterfield’s Fine Art Licensing. “Art is a great natural anti-depressant,” he says. “If you think about what you want to wear or buy for your home, it’s something that makes you feel good. So with product with images you can get lost in, you feel better.” Over the course of the recession, licensees and retailers alike became very cognizant of what would and would not sell; they only wanted the tried and true art and design. For Porterfield’s this meant vibrant colors and images of safe subjects—wine, cats, roosters—that could easily translate onto home décor products for kitchen and dining.
Designing a Trend Artists’ work cannot be driven solely by their artistic abilities. They must also be able to recognize and interpret current trends. “In many ways, it is our job to identify the market trends that are impacted by the art property and work with the artist to amplify this connection,” says LMA’s Marks. One tip that many licensors give is to trend shop—follow trends in stores and regularly navigate online blogs and websites such as Pinterest. “There is a lot of talent out there and fierce competition for shelf space in a challenged economy,” says Alex Meisel, president of Alex Meisel & Co., which handles licensing for Dena Designs. “Good design and good product are essential.” A key to the success of Dena Designs comes from artist Dena Fishbein’s ability to evolve with the marketplace. “She was trained in industrial design and has a mindset to solve the design riddle,” Meisel says. “She does it really well and is adept at establishing trends. As markets change, so must design.” It is the ability of an artist to interpret those trends in a unique way that will be the key to his or her success, says Julie Newman, president of Jewel Branding and Licensing.
“Take a category like coastal and reinvent it,” she says. “If you had a coastal cottage and wanted a shower curtain, what would it look like? Take your style and figure out how it could work for coastal.” Strategy and the Middle Man Just because the licensing pool is warm, does not mean it is well suited for every artist or every type of artwork, says Marty Segelbaum, president of MHS Licensing. One of the first things he says MHS does before signing an artist is talk strategy. Some artists look at licensing merely as a way to pay the bills, whereas others come to the table looking to build their brand. Depending on what that objective is will dictate what the strategy will be. “Some artists have a large library of commercially viable material, while others need a certain level of guidance and briefing to bring their strengths to market,” says Raul Turpin, international licensing executive for MGL Licensing. How detailed and expansive an artist’s collection is also factors into his reception in the marketplace. “I think before, you could have a lot of art and get some decent deals,” says Jewel’s Newman. “Now, you really have to have complete thought-out, in-depth collections and product ideas for the categories. Companies are really relying on us to do everything.” Art Gets Digital This is not the licensing landscape of 10 years ago, says Segelbaum. “Forty deals can generate the same sales volume that 10 deals did 10 years ago,” he says. “Whereas you would license something and it would be in the line for three years or longer, now it’s not uncommon that it’s out in a year.” More than ever, buyers and manufacturers are looking for fresh art to draw in consumers. Manufacturers that once created their own product designs no longer have
the means to do so and look toward licensed art to quickly meet retailers’ demands. “Digital skills facilitate [this] process drastically, not only in terms of speed and delivery, but adaptation to commercial demands is much easier when a piece can be modified digitally,” says MGL’s Turpin. At the very least, traditional artists working in a non-digital medium must have access to the appropriate digital technology. “I firmly believe consumers respond to an artist’s hand, but if the work is not translated into a digital format it is much more difficult to reach the market,” says Meisel. But for those with the capabilities, the digital landscape can afford new opportunities for growth in essential art licensing categories such as publishing. Publishing allows artists and designers to express their aesthetic vision or story, says Meisel. “The category has expanded beyond books, calendars, and cards with a digital explosion,” he says. “Artists will now expand their creativity as they apply their work to the burgeoning markets of apps and electronic publishing.” As consumers are on the lookout for new electronics
and mobile technologies to meet their daily needs, more often licensed art is providing another way for consumers to express their personal individuality and taste, says LMA’s Marks. See sidebar. New Year, New Art The new year has sprung a wave of creativity for designers and artists. And this year, manufacturers and retailers are meeting that creativity with open arms. The cautious are less cautious. When Jewel’s Newman first started her business in 2008, it was difficult just talking to companies. But now, “companies that I talked to years ago that said, ‘I like it but I’m not ready to do anything right now’ are calling me, and that never happens,” she says. Many believe this optimism will carry over throughout the year and will certainly be felt during next month’s SURTEX, May 20—22 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. “Manufacturers that a couple of years ago said, ‘I don’t need to license art and design’ are realizing they do and they’re looking to us to get things done,” says Segelbaum.
Art With a Personal Touch Licensed art is one way to offer consumers a more customized product. While it can be difficult to create art that has a personalized touch and still maintain mass-market appeal, some have found a balance, such as through MHS Licensing’s deal with Magnet Works for artist Patrick Reid O’Brien (whose work is seen throughout Jimmy Buffet’s lifestyle brand Margaritaville). With a large customer base in coastal, resort, and lake regions, O’Brien’s nautical themes not only appealed to consumers but were able to be localized easily with text to give consumers a more personalized product, says Sue Todd, president of Magnet Works. “We want to give retailers the opportunity to have products that they can give their customers that reinforces the shop-local initiative,” she says. “So when this art came along, it was like a light bulb went off.”
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ART & DESIGN by Jennifer Lynch
Success in art licensing is not defined simply by the talent of an artist but also by the ability to interpret current trends in a unique way to meet the needs of consumers. Below is a sampling of the latest art licensing deals and licensed products.
JEWEL BRANDING & LICENSING
Jewel Branding & Licensing has brokered new deals for artist Jessica Steele including a new range of kitchen stationery with C.R. Gibson, Pavilion Gift Company for gift products, Magenta for tabletop, and DNC for lunch totes and bags for the UK. Pictured on the right is a sampling of patterns for the C.R. Gibson line.
PORTERFIELD’S FINE ART LICENSING
Porterfield’s Fine Art Licensing has added Bob Pettes, painter of Americana and European landscapes, to its roster of artists. Pettes’ images have been licensed and reproduced as calendars, prints, porcelain products, greeting cards, and other products. His images will be made available to licensees worldwide. Pictured is Last Swim of Summer from Pettes’ Memories of Times Past collection.
MGL LICENSING
Hallmark UK has added the latest humor range Spectickles by U.S. cartoonist Bill Abbott to its greeting cards. Bill Abbott is the latest artist to join the MGL licensing roster. His work has appeared in numerous magazines and books throughout the U.S. The deal was brokered by MGL Licensing, which represents Abbott’s work throughout Europe.
DENA DESIGNS
Dena Designs and Two’s Company are collaborating on an expansive line of gifts, accessories, and items for toddlers. The happi by Dena designs, which are a modern mix of bright colors, stylish patterns, and uplifting prints, will be featured in Two’s Company’s new Cupcakes and Cartwheels collection.
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TK BRANDS
Crowded Teeth, a whimsical brand of artwork featuring sweet characters with bold, fresh graphic design, expands its product offering with a broad array of items manufactured and sold by specialty retailer, The Land of Nod. Through 2012, new product introductions will include home furnishings, such as bedding, hanging décor, chairs, art prints, and toys. Wooden toys, plush, hand puppets, and arts and crafts items are all currently in development. Pictured is Crowded Teeth’s Hi Hi Hi.
ART IMPRESSIONS
Art Impressions signed a deal with TCG (formerly The Canadian Group) for artist Josephine Wall. As part of its Signature Artist Series and Special Format puzzles, TCG will create puzzles that showcase Wall’s fantasy imagery. The puzzles will also feature a message or thought-provoking statement within the frame. The puzzle assortment will include artwork such as Heart & Soul, Child of the Universe, Spirit of the Elements, Minerva’s Melody, Masque of Love, and Honeysuckle. Pictured is Glitter & Gold.
LISA MARKS ASSOCIATES
Coolabi signed a new deal with Japonesque for design-based property Scarlett & Crimson. Under the deal, Japonesque, which already covers U.S. cosmetics for Scarlett & Crimson, will expand the line with bath, body, and hair care products for the U.S. Coolabi also signed a deal with Japonesque for a brand new cosmetics line for the UK. Products are expected to launch for fall/winter 2012. Lisa Marks Associates represents the brand in North America.
MHS LICENSING
Park Designs introduced more than 20 SKUs including tabletop textiles and ceramics, decorative towels, napkins, and doormats featuring artwork by Tina Higgins, represented by MHS Licensing. The Nature Sings collection utilizes Higgins’ botanical illustrations of holiday greenery and red amaryllis paired with cardinals accentuated by an undercurrent of sepia. The collection launched at the Atlanta International Gift Show.
THE THOMAS KINKADE COMPANY
The Thomas Kinkade Company signed new partners including DecalGirl (laptops, e-readers, and mobile device skins featuring Thomas Kinkade imagery); Precious Moments (hand-painted glass ornaments of Ne’Qwa Art); Trend Setters, LTD, a manufacturer of the Star Fire Prints (art printed on a semi translucent glass); and ErcolanoUSA (music boxes sold in exclusive boutiques and hotels worldwide). The Thomas Kinkade Company will exhibit for the first time at SURTEX. Pictured is Studio in the Garden Burl.
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BIG TENT ENTERTAINMENT
KIRSTEN FALLON, VICE-PRESIDENT, GLOBAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Big Tent Entertainment appointed Kirsten Fallon as vice-president of global business development. In her new role with the company, Fallon will be responsible for the development of Domo and PixFusion in Latin America, Europe, Russia, Turkey, the Middle East, and North Africa. Additionally, Fallon will be responsible for select global retailers for all Big Tent Entertainment brands. Most recently, Fallon served as the U.S. vice-president of retail marketing and development at Ludorum where she spearheaded retail marketing for Chuggington. Prior to Ludorum, Fallon worked for Peanuts Worldwide (formerly United Media).
BEANSTALK
NELL RONEY, SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT, BRAND ACQUISITIONS
Beanstalk appointed Nell Roney as senior vice-president, brand acquisitions. Roney will leverage her more than 25 years of industry experience in brand licensing, brand management, and marketing as well as her extensive network of relationships. Roney has managed programs across many licensing segments including corporate and trademark licensing, entertainment and character properties, sports and art properties, and promotions. On the agency front, she has been instrumental in developing and managing licensing programs for a host of key clients in the consumer packaged goods industry across categories including household products, consumer electronics, health and beauty, and automotive, among others. Prior to that, Roney managed licensing initiatives, as a licensee, for a number of companies in the food and beverage, home textiles, and housewares industries.
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SESAME WORKSHOP PROMOTIONS
Sesame Workshop promoted Gisela Abrams to assistant vicepresident of international licensing, Marie-Cecile Girard-Jones to assistant vice-president of international licensing, and Kerri Katz to director of licensing, strategic partner relations. Abrams and GirardJones joined the Workshop as international licensing managers in 2003. Katz joined as manager of licensing in 2008. Abrams will oversee new business development and merchandising plans for international territories in Asia and the Pacific. She will also work closely with the Workshop’s creative and themed entertainment departments to service partners and clients in the development of Sesame Street-branded products for both television and outreach. Girard-Jones will lead the product licensing and marketing for Spain and Latin America, including Brazil and the Middle East. She will oversee and initiate licensing and retail programs, such as the upcoming 40th anniversary of Plaza Sésamo in Mexico. Girard-Jones will also continue serving as project leader for the Plaza Sésamo project. Katz will work with Hasbro, the Workshop’s master toy licensee, and Proctor & Gamble, which includes the brands Pampers and Crest. She will continue to be a key licensing contact, providing direction and support while overseeing strategic development and marketing by her partners of quality products, promotions, and merchandising to meet sales goals.
GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS
PETER HARPER, SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT, AMERICAS
Guinness World Records named Peter Harper as the head of its U.S. office based out of New York City. Harper will assume the title of senior vice-president, Americas, spearheading strategies across all business divisions including publishing, licensing, digital, television, and records management in North and South America. Previously the executive director of new product development at Time Home Entertainment, Inc., Harper is a 22-year publishing professional who worked for Time Warner for 15 years. During his tenure, he had various roles, including Guinness World Records’ account director for Time Warner when it was the U.S. book distributor between 2001 and 2009.
MAY 8–10
Sweets & Snacks Expo
sweetsandsnacks.com
McCormick Place
Chicago
20–22
SURTEX
surtex.com
Jacob Javits Convention Center
New York City
Jacob Javits Convention Center
15–18
20–23 22–23
JUNE
PlayCon & DC Fly-In
National Stationery Show PLMA International
toyassociation.org
nationalstationeryshow.com plma.nl
Gaylord National Hotel and Conference Center
Jacob Javits Convention Center
RAI Exhibition Centre
4–7
BookExpo America
bookexpoamerica.com
17–19
Fancy Food Show
specialtyfood.com
Comic-Con International
comic-con.org
San Diego Convention Center
5–7
12–14
26–28
JULY
12–15
Electronics Entertainment Expo
Licensing International Expo NAPTE
26–28
OASIS Gift Show
18–22
New York International Gift Fair
AUGUST
e3expo.com
Los Angeles Convention Center
naptebudapest.com
Sofitel Chain Bridge Hotel
licensingexpo.com
oasis.org
Mandalay Bay Convention Center
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Phoenix Convention Center
National Harbor, Md.
New York City
Amsterdam, Netherlands
New York City Los Angeles
Las Vegas
Washington, D.C.
Budapest, Hungary San Diego
Phoenix
MAGIC
magiconline.com
nyigf.com
Jacob Javits Convention Center Las Vegas Convention Center
Las Vegas
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TIME TO PLAY FALL SHOWCASE
TIMETOPLAYMAG.COM
THE ALTMAN BUILDING
NEW YORK CITY
2–4
TIA Fall Toy Preview
toyassociation.org
Dallas Market Center
Dallas
8–11
MIPCOM
mipworld.com
Palais Des Festivals
Cannes, France
20–23
SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2–4
6–7
13–18 14–17
16–18
30–11/1
PB&J
MIPJunior
High Point Market ABC Kids Expo
Brand Licensing Europe AAPEX
pbandjshow.com mipworld.com ihfc.com
theabcshow.com
brandlicensing.eu aapexshow.com
Dallas Market Center Palais Des Festivals
International Home Furnishings Center Kentucky Exposition Center The Grand Hall Olympia The Sands Expo Center
New York City
Dallas
Cannes, France
High Point, NC
Louisville
London, UK Las Vegas
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G G IN ER AK P TH E I O BR SH AN D ER N U TN O R R PA
Andrea Brent Vice President, Consumer Products Email: andrea.brent@fremantlemedia.com Tel: 818-748-1387 www.fmeamericas.com
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