Licensing Works’ Leslie Levine talks major anniversary programmes, the launch of new projects and representing ‘iconic multi-generational’ IPs with a rich history.
For our annual overseas round up, LicensingSource.net asks a selection of licensing industry insiders in key territories to tell us about their takeaways from 2023 and the challenges and opportunities they expect to encounter in 2024, and for a single word to sum up each year.
Today, we head to the US, with Leslie Levine, owner/founder, Licensing Works.
“We are pleased with the anniversary programmes we were able to execute for the 80th anniversary of The Little Prince, as well as the 100th anniversary of Winchester Mystery House. Reeds’ translation of The Little Prince into bridal and fashion jewellery was a particular highlight.
We’re looking forward to some major entertainment projects launching in support of the Zorro brand. The first is a new TV series (which launched on 19 January, 2024) on Amazon Prime, while a second series is in production for Paramount+ for Q4 2024 release. A modern-day female Zorro is now in development at the CBS Network, while Disney+ is producing a new live-action series starring Wilmer Valderrama.
We have new retail partnerships aligned for the Kewpie franchise and we are celebrating the 135th anniversary of Moulin Rouge in 2024.
These are all universally recognisable IPs that resonate with younger and older audiences alike, offering sustainable longevity independent of film and TV event activations. We will continue growth in our sweet spot, representing iconic multi-generational IPs with a rich history.
Overall, 2023 was a year of celebration. Expansion is the word to sum up 2024.”
This feature originally appeared in the spring 2024 edition of Licensing Source Book. To read the full publication, click on this link.
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