By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Blonde Sheep Licensing has just announced a sweet Valentine's Day collaboration between the candy brand Swizzels and the hilariously named underwear brand Oddballs. The partnership introduces the iconic Love Hearts brand as the theme for a playful underwear collection launching for Valentine’s Day 2026. The range promises color, … [Read more...] about Swizzels Brings the Love to Oddballs Underwear Fashion for Valentine’s Day
Articles
Eddie Bauer Launches Major Rebranding Based on its ‘First Ascent’ Line
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Eddie Bauer announced Monday a new strategy centered on technical product innovation and digital expansion, anchored by the return of its high-performance line First Ascent. Founded in 1920 in Seattle, Eddie Bauer created the first patented quilted down jacket and has spent more than a century equipping adventurers with outdoor apparel … [Read more...] about Eddie Bauer Launches Major Rebranding Based on its ‘First Ascent’ Line
KessCo and Square Enix Partner on Final Fantasy Tabletop Products
TLL Staff KessCo announced Monday a new licensing partnership with Square Enix to introduce a lineup of Final Fantasy tabletop products. The line will include board games and collectible RPG dice sets inspired by Final Fantasy I through VI Pixel Remaster. The new collection will be showcased at New York Toy Fair 2026 and brings the role-playing game franchise into tabletop … [Read more...] about KessCo and Square Enix Partner on Final Fantasy Tabletop Products
Brand Central Hires Molly Jacobson as Senior Vice President
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Brand Central LLC announced Molly Jacobson has joined the licensing agency as senior vice president of licensing and strategy in its manufacturing representation division. Jacobson brings more than 20 years of experience in brand partnerships, licensing and omnichannel business development to the role. She most … [Read more...] about Brand Central Hires Molly Jacobson as Senior Vice President
KPop Demon Hunter Lego Kits on the Way in Deal With Netflix
TLL Staff The breakout hit KPop Demon Hunters will get its own Lego kits, thanks to a newly signed deal between the Danish toymaker and Netflix. KPop Demon Hunters burst onto screens to become the most popular Netflix movie of the year. This collaboration aims to bring that universe to the world of Lego brick building sets. One set has … [Read more...] about KPop Demon Hunter Lego Kits on the Way in Deal With Netflix
High Times Indeed: Willie Nelson’s THC Beverage Attracts $15 Million Investment
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Twenty years ago anyone financing or building a cannabis production facility would have been promptly arrested and charged with a felony. But these days, investing in cannabis barely raises an eyebrow, and major companies and celebrities are fully engaged in cannabis brand licensing. One of the leaders in cannabis licensing is … [Read more...] about High Times Indeed: Willie Nelson’s THC Beverage Attracts $15 Million Investment
Snore With Snorlax As Mimaru Hotels Expand Its Pokémon Rooms
By Allison Watkinson TLL Staff The Mimaru hotel brand has just announced it will be renovating and expanding its popular 'Pokémon Rooms', so aspiring trainers can kick back and relax after a hard day trying to catch 'em all. Mimaru is a leader in Japan for apartment-style hotels, and is owned by Cosmos Hotel Management, which has held a licensing deal with Pokémon for … [Read more...] about Snore With Snorlax As Mimaru Hotels Expand Its Pokémon Rooms
Macallan and James Bond Prove That Good Scotch, Like Diamonds, Are Forever
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The famed Macallan Distillery has released a new single malt Scotch whisky honoring the 55th anniversary of "Diamonds Are Forever," proving that some things — like 007's taste for fine spirits — are indeed forever. The Macallan Diamonds Are Forever 55th Anniversary Release, available starting Thursday at $750, continues the … [Read more...] about Macallan and James Bond Prove That Good Scotch, Like Diamonds, Are Forever
Licensing Drove the Toy Industry’s Resurgence in 2025
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The retail research company Circana found the U.S. toy industry has returned to positive growth after two years of decline. Circana’s data shows that total annual dollar sales grew by +6%, as average selling price (ASP) rose +4%. Most importantly, the number of units sold also increased by 3%, despite fears in early 2025 that … [Read more...] about Licensing Drove the Toy Industry’s Resurgence in 2025
Who’s News: Paramount Names Paul Southern as Executive VP of Consumer Products
TLL Staff Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, announced today the appointment of Paul Southern as Executive Vice President, Consumer Products, effective immediately. Southern brings more than 20 years of experience in global licensing and commercialization strategies for major entertainment franchises to his new role. He will oversee Paramount's consumer products business and … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Paramount Names Paul Southern as Executive VP of Consumer Products