54-55_Nuts & Bolts.qxp_NEW LSB 2008 GRID 04/05/2018 09:00 Page 54
Inset: Licensing Expo has become more international over the past four years, with substantial international attendee growth.
Expo Nuts AnD Bolts
Vegas ventures In 2017, Licensing Expo had more than 406 exhibitors representing over 5,000 brands on its showfloor, and 2018 is looking likely to be just as packed, vibrant and diverse. The successful Licensing Week initiative returns, as does the popular Matchmaking Service and there’s also a couple of new things to look forward to. LSB gets the lowdown. With Licensing Expo 2017 having been one of the most successful shows to date, the organising team at UBM is heading into the 2018 event on a high. Last year saw the successful debut of Licensing Week, a streamlined period of licensing industry happenings – set to be repeated in 2018 – combining networking events, the Licensing University, Opening Night Party and entertainment showcases into a cohesive schedule. And attendees definitely appreciated the changes, says Jessica Blue, svp of the Global Licensing Group at UBM. “The show has become more international over the past four years and we’ve seen substantial international attendee growth, including an 87% increase in attendees from South Korea and a 23% increase in attendees from Japan,” she says. “Product categories have also grown considerably - video games have experienced a 46% increase and TV, video, filming and streaming followed closely with a 45% increase. Property categories have also grown with increased presence from Home & Housewares, Food & Beverage, Left: Jessica Blue says that as the industry grows, more and more brands are embracing licensing.
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LICENSING SOURCE BOOK EUROPE 2017
and Toys & Games. We had more than 406 exhibitors representing over 5,000 brands and onsite re-book was at 84% at the conclusion of Licensing Expo 2017, which was very exciting.” Jessica expects this year’s event to have the “most vibrant and jam-packed” floor yet. “We’re thrilled to welcome an entire class of new exhibitors and properties to the Licensing Expo floor this year,” she continues. “As the industry continues to grow each year, more and more brands are embracing licensing.” Some of the new brands and properties joining the throng for the first time include Country Music Association, Gearbox Software, Major League Baseball Players Association, Penguin Random House, Spin Master, Tetris and US Marine Corps to name just a few.
Licensing Expo 2018: Need to Know WHERE:
Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas
WHEN:
Tuesday May 22 Wednesday May 23 Thursday May 24
WEB: SOCIAL
www.licensingexpo.com @licensingexpo, #licensingexpo
9am-5.30pm 9am-5.30pm 9am-3.30pm