By Alicia Rosa Brand Central Sr. Manager of Trend and Creative Services 2022 is coming to a close and 2023 will be a time for new trends and consumer insights across all industries. 2022 saw tons of growth in new categories and a slew of trends that captured the attention of shoppers and audiences. As we ring in the new year, here are the biggest trends from 2022 and a sneak … [Read more...] about Opinion: Brand Central’s Biggest Licensing Trends From 2022
News & Trends
Trade Shows: World of Toys Program Expands to New York and Tokyo
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Now that the COVID-19 pandemic is over, Spielwarenmesse has been on a tear, expanding its programs around the globe. Spielwarenmesse eG is a fair organizer and marketing services provider for the toy sector and other consumer goods markets. The Nuremberg-based company organizes the world-leading Spielwarenmesse toy fair in Nuremberg, … [Read more...] about Trade Shows: World of Toys Program Expands to New York and Tokyo
Who’s News: Christian Braun Joins Global Toy Experts as Industry Partner
By Allison WatkinsonTLL ReporterChristian Braun has joined Global Toy Experts as an industry partner to provide expertise on collectibles, consulting and M&A services. Global Toy Experts is a consultancy firm and information resource for the international toy industry. The consultancy provides analysis and strategies for domestic toy manufacturers and international … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Christian Braun Joins Global Toy Experts as Industry Partner
TheSoul Publishing Acquires Majority Stake in Underscore
By Allison WatkinsonTLL ReporterThe digital content studio TheSoul Publishing has acquired a majority stake in the talent management firm, Underscore Talent.Founded in 2021, Underscore Talent is known for its 360° management strategy. It assists its diverse client base with brand partnerships, consumer products, ecommerce, social media, publishing, content distribution, live … [Read more...] about TheSoul Publishing Acquires Majority Stake in Underscore
Jazwares President Appointed Chair of Make-A-Wish Foundation
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Jazwares president Laura Zebersky has been elected to chair the Board of Directors for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. “Laura is a dynamic leader who has made a great impact during an important time in our chapter’s evolution,” said Norman Wedderburn, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. “With so many key initiatives … [Read more...] about Jazwares President Appointed Chair of Make-A-Wish Foundation
Who’s News: ZAG Makes Key Hire For New Toy Division
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter ZAG has appointed James Nunziati as Head of Global Sales for ZAG Play's recently launched Toy Division. In his new position at ZAG Play, Nunziati will build on the Toy Division's sales operations by developing and executing new sales strategies and establishing sustainable relationships with both customers and retailers. He will also … [Read more...] about Who’s News: ZAG Makes Key Hire For New Toy Division
ZAG Animation on Display At Brazilian Pop Culture Festival
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The animation studio ZAG is hosting an exhibit at Brazil’s upcoming pop culture festival CCXP for its Miraculous and Ghostforce entertainment franchises. “We’re so excited to be at CCXP to interact with our Miraculous cosplay fans from across Brazil and engage them with news about Ghostforce that launched in May this year,” said Jeremy … [Read more...] about ZAG Animation on Display At Brazilian Pop Culture Festival
Bob Iger Returns as CEO in Major Disney Shakeup
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief After a rough two years for the Walt Disney Company, Robert Iger has been reappointed as the company's CEO. Iger will replace Bob Chapek, who has stepped down from the position of CEO. Iger spent more than 40 years at Disney and also ran the company as CEO during 15 of its most successful years, overseeing massive growth that made … [Read more...] about Bob Iger Returns as CEO in Major Disney Shakeup
Who’s News: Spielwarenmesse eG Appoints Carol Rapp as Joint Director of Friedhelm Merz Verlag
By Allison WatkinsonTLL ReporterSpielwarenmesse eG has appointed Carol Rapp as its new joint director for the company's subsidiary, Friedhelm Merz Verlag.Friedhelm Merz Verlag is a German gaming event company that was acquired as a subsidiary by Spielwarenmesse eG in early 2022. Rapp will assume joint responsibility of Friedhelm Merz Verlag with the two existing directors, … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Spielwarenmesse eG Appoints Carol Rapp as Joint Director of Friedhelm Merz Verlag
Licensing Trends: NIL Changes See Athletes Earning Big Bucks on TikTok
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Savvy college athletes are generating huge returns from social media, now that the NCAA allows them to earn money from Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals. The social video company Curastory has unearthed data that shows college athletes are earning as much as $80,000 for a single social media posts. As well, the top earning … [Read more...] about Licensing Trends: NIL Changes See Athletes Earning Big Bucks on TikTok