‘It’s important to look at the wider media business too’ says Allison Watkins.
The Brexit process has been triggered and negotiations for the UK to leave the EU are underway. But what, if any, difference has it made to the licensing industry?
Is UK manufacturing actually benefiting from the current situation and is there such a thing as a ‘Brexit bounce’?
This week, The Source will continue to ask a selection of industry executives – from licensees and brand owners, through to agents and support companies – for their views.
Today: Allison Watkins, evp consumer products and TV distribution, Beano Studios
“Clearly the currency decline is impacting those categories who buy in other currencies and sell in US$. Pressure on margins is always going to play a part in licensing arrangements.
“I think it’s important to look at the wider media business, too. Given the role that TV plays in kids character licensing then the impact on the UK production industry could be significant.
“Using our series of Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed, the fact that it has been produced solely in the UK is a positive when speaking to European broadcasters as it qualifies as EU content.
“Who knows whether that will be the case post Brexit. If there is a reduction in the number of UK series being commissioned, and sold internationally then this will in turn reduce the variety of licences available in the market.”
This feature originally appeared in the autumn 2017 edition of Licensing Source Book. Click here to read the full publication.
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