What Licensing Expo means to me: Jamie Stevens

Sony Pictures Consumer Products evp tells us why the show is so special to her.

Sony Pictures Consumer Products has been enjoying a successful week at Licensing Expo – showcasing hit franchises such as Hotel Transylvania and Ghostbusters.

Here, evp of worldwide consumer products, Jamie Stevens, explains why the show is so special to her.

How many Licensing Expos have you attended in total?

I officially stopped keeping track a couple years ago! I have been to so many that it seems as if it is a national holiday I celebrate every year.

What can we expect to see from Sony Pictures at this year’s show?

Sony Pictures Consumer Products 2018 film licensing opportunities celebrate the return of beloved franchises. The Hotel Transylvania franchise continues to thrive with the third film coming soon; Hotel Transylvania: Summer Vacation. Other new franchise film opportunities include the all new Men In Black spin-off and Goosebumps: Haunted Halloween.

Sony is known for its great library of classic films and we are gearing up for a number of big celebrations including Ghostbusters 35th anniversary. Also new this year, my group is now responsible for the licensing and consumer products for Sony Pictures Television. We will now represent such television properties as Breaking Bad, The Goldbergs, Shark Tank, Outlander, Cobra Kai and many more television brands across various platforms of distribution.

What would you most like to achieve from your time at the show?

We have a pretty straight forward goal every year and that is to personally meet and connect with both new and existing licensees and retailers.  We want to sustain long term relationships and create partnerships that are mutually beneficial.

What is your best memory of the show?

Once I’m on the show floor, it’s always like a reunion as I get to see old friends and business partners.

Best place to relax and unwind after a day at the show?

I love heading over to Eyecandy after a long day.

The one thing you couldn’t live without during the show?

My must have essentials at the show are bottled water and flat shoes.

What would be the one piece of advice you would give to a first timer at Licensing Expo?

Be open to meeting new people. It’s important to foster deep relationships with licensees and retailers you’ve worked with in the past, but always keep your contacts fresh and inclusive of new people. Ideas and opportunities can come from anyone at anytime.