World’s largest museum and research complex to be handled by IPR Licensing.
IPR Licensing has been named the exclusive UK licensing agency for the Smithsonian Institution – the world’s largest museum and research complex.
With its 19 museums – including the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History and Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum – there are over 150 million artifacts and historical collections which licensing partners can draw from to create unique and innovative products for UK retail.
The Smithsonian already has strong links to the UK. Most recently, it revealed its curatorial partnership with the Victoria & Albert Museum and for the first time in its history will have an exhibition gallery outside of the US in the new V&A outpost at The Olympic Park in London (due to open 2023).
IPR Licensing is looking at a wide range of categories to grow the programme including apparel, footwear and fashion accessories; home interiors and textiles; bags, luggage and travel accessories; gifts; stationery; fine, reproduction art, prints and posters; consumer electronics and appliances; toys, games and puzzles; and apps, digital and electronic accessories.
“We are delighted to be representing the Smithsonian, an iconic institution, and thrilled to be working closely with the team at Smithsonian Enterprises,” said Judith le Fleming, co-founding partner of IPR Licensing. “The diverse museum collections include a wealth of creative material to inspire licensing partners and bring to the UK market unique and desirable products.
“We are excited to be bringing the Smithsonian experience to UK consumers through great product.”
Carol LeBlanc, svp of Smithsonian Enterprises, added: “We are excited to bring the Smithsonian to the UK through compelling products and services. Together with IPR Licensing, we look forward to developing a comprehensive licensing programme that celebrates and showcases the Smithsonian, its museums and our vast collections.”
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