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Spotlight On... Licensed Giftware
New Year, New Brands Licensed giftware will be a big part of the Spring trade shows, with suppliers investing in properties ranging from much loved TV shows to sci fi and the Olympics 2020. PG&H spoke to some of the industry's leading licensed giftware suppliers to find out what's hot, and who's doing what.
Lagoon: A Question Of Sport Sporting fun is the name of the game at Lagoon, with the company launching a new A Question of Sport range, featuring three games inspired by iconic rounds from the show, as well as three decks of sporting trivia and a family board game. “We’re delighted to be launching this exciting collaboration with the BBC,” comments director Heather Watherston. “A Question of Sport is the BBC’s longest running sports quiz and a firm family-favourite. With content compiled by writers of the show, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2020, the range makes an ideal gift for teenagers, adults and sports fans.” Right: A Question of Sport is the latest licence for Lagoon.
Nemesis Now: Original Stormtrooper The Original Stormtroopers, known for their shocking aim and glossy white suits, is a new licence for Nemesis Now. The launch collection features brand new sci-fi figurines and wine bottle holders. “We are proud to be collaborating with the Original Stormtrooper, bringing a unique take to such an iconic character whose timeless appeal spans generations of fans,” says Nemesis Now’s managing director Andrew Norman-Smith. “Our customers are excited with the personality and humour that we have been able to add, bringing a new sense of fun and a smile to people who are now able now see the Stormtrooper in a very different light. Their everlasting appeal travels through generations and only gets more powerful with age, making them perfect additions to our licensed giftware collection.” Featuring brand new sci-fi figurines and wine bottle holders, the range is due to be released in January 2020, with the pieces created using Nemesis Now’s state-of-the-art 3D printing technology. “We have worked with the licensing company through each stage to ensure that these collectables truly represent the spirit of the Stormtrooper, while giving them a quirky edge,” confirms Andrew. Left: Nemesis Now is bringing out a collection of Original Stormtrooper sci fi figurines and wine bottle holders.
Groovy UK: Friends Friends is a new licence for Groovy this Spring. The brand has a wide fan base, from young teens watching the re-runs to original fans, both male and female. “Our new range of bathrobes, slippers, Christmas stocking and house mats have been so successful, we have had to restock already,” comments Groovy’s managing director Monique Scott. “Whether dealing with life's highs or lows, these six best friends could teach us everything we need to know about life, love and friendship in a humorous way, and I think this is why it is so well loved,” adds Monique. The quirky prints or embroideries that feature on the products come from memorable quotes from the characters, or iconic motifs such as Central Perk café, where the characters spent much of their time. Above: The Friends robe, rug and stocking from Groovy.
Candlelight: Katie Alice British lifestyle designer Katie Alice, whose collections are inspired by her love of vintage florals, is bringing her renowned nostalgic style to Candlelight’s new, exclusive range of candles and reed diffusers. “We’re delighted to have secured our first licensed range with Katie Alice,” comments Candlelight’s sales director Debbie Isles. “Her designs are stunning and their aesthetics perfectly complement our candles and reed diffusers.” Continues Debbie: “The range captures the very best of vintage design, which is still very much on trend in homewares and we’re expecting it to be very popular with retailers.” Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide
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