We catch up with Liz Kalodner, evp & general manager of CBS Consumer Products.
Firstly, how has your business been performing in general over the past 12 months? What have been your highlights?
Admittedly, we’re in the middle of Star Trek’s 50th Anniversary, but we’ve had the best 12 months we’ve had in 10 years. Social gaming and collectibles are both on fire.
What will be your main focuses at Licensing Expo this year?
We are incredibly fortunate to have new programming for classic, beloved franchises in a bit of a dream scenario.
Consequently, we will focus this year on Hawaii 5-O, the original 1970s show and the new one about to enter its seventh year on CBS; MacGyver, the original 1980s show and the new one debuting on CBS this fall; and Twin Peaks, the original 1990s show and the new one debuting on Showtime in Spring 2017.
Of course, Star Trek remains a priority for us with that same perfect set-up as we celebrate 50 years of the franchise and also prepare for the upcoming debut of a new series in early 2017.
How important is Licensing Expo is your overall business? What benefits do you get from exhibiting there?
Licensing Expo is a wonderful opportunity to talk to existing licensees whom we don’t see often, but it serves an even more important function as a marketplace of ideas and introductions. We have the chance to see and hear of new concepts and categories, to meet potential new partners and to trade insights with our industry colleagues.
How strong is the US licensing industry in general at the moment, do you think? Do you see any trends emerging?
Fortunately, the blockbuster movie franchises are keeping the licensing industry healthy. And there’s a plethora of new content from all sources including digital apps. The biggest trend, though, might be on the category side where we’re seeing more and more technology and a shift from tangible goods to interactive experiences.
What’s the one thing that you are looking forward to most about Licensing Expo this year? What would you most like to achieve at the show the year?
I’m looking forward to what I might learn, hoping to find a partner or two who is doing something revolutionary.
Last year, I got educated about holograms and have since incorporated them in our licensing; who knows what this year will bring?
