The Source takes a look at some of the big licensing stories of the year.
2016 has been another stellar year in the UK licensing industry – from big name blockbusters at the cinema transferring their success onto retail shelves, to the launch of the B&LLAs and a storming year for the Licensing Awards and The Light Fund, new properties emerging and newcomers in the retail space.
We highlight some of our most read stories and articles of the year, with today being the turn of July and August.
July
Matalan to unveil new Character Shop in September – New offering will cover over 30 licences in the range for launch.
‘Create product that creates memories’ – Kids Industries’ Gary Pope on why children’s brand choices are driven by sensorial experience.
Amazon reveals trends for first half of 2016 – Minions goggles, Batman v Superman, Star Wars all listed in etailer’s latest trends report.
‘Star Wars and PAW Patrol are just phenomenal’ – We chat to Argos trading manager for toys & nursery, Linzi Walker about her top licensed picks.
The Licensing Awards Property finalists unveiled – Shortlist for the final category at September’s big night has been confirmed.
The Licensing Awards Product finalists revealed – Shortlist for the prestigious product categories confirmed for September’s big night.
The Licensing Awards Retail finalists revealed – Shortlist has been confirmed for hotly contested category at this September’s event.
View our LIMA UK Rising Stars picture gallery – Exclusive photos of all the nominees and last night’s Young Professionals event.
View our Light Fund Treasure Hunt picture gallery – Almost 300 execs help raise over £5,000 for the licensing industry charity.
August
Mothercare adds Brambly Hedge babywear line – Paul Dennicci collection is first step to reintroducing classic brand to licensing.
Mardles teams with Aardman for reality sticker line – First licensed partnership secured following coverage on The Source earlier this year.
Remembering Helen Bailey – LIMA UK md Kelvyn Gardner leads the tributes to the licensing agent and children’s author.
YouTube opens first creator merchandise store – Intention is to educate YouTubers about licensing their own products.
Why digital content delivery can benefit licensing – Licensing Link’s Ian Wickham on how brands like Little Baby Bum are perfectly placed.
Darran Garnham to build MTW Toys in the UK – Company is the exclusive distributor for Thinkway Toys across EMEA.
Agency looking to match sports talent with brands – The Integrity Club can offer something different to those looking to stimulate their brands, says founder.
CPLG reshuffles top level management – Maarten Weck adds responsibility for CPLG UK, as Stephen Gould steps down.
Why using licences in ads is a global business – From VW and Star Wars in the US to Sesame Street for the Australian census, Born Licensing’s David Born takes a look.
Want to read more news like this? Simply sign up to our daily digest by clicking here. You can also follow @LicensingSource on Twitter.
