By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The postponement of the Nintendo Switch 2 is just one sign the video gaming industry will be hard hit by tariffs. That's according to the Entertainment Software Association, which says the roller coaster ride of tariffs and counter-tariffs will impact the entire industry. "We do expect these tariffs will have a real and detrimental impact … [Read more...] about Entertainment Software Association Warns of Tariff Impact
Asia
Taiwan Expands Global Licensing Presence at Bologna Children’s Book Fair
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The country of Taiwan is actively working to increase its role in the global licensing industry, including its first-ever showing at the Bologna Licensing Trade Fair/Kids (BLTF/K). As the Bologna Children’s Book Fair (BCBF) continues to evolve into a cross-sector rights hub, Taiwan is leveraging the event to introduce its own various … [Read more...] about Taiwan Expands Global Licensing Presence at Bologna Children’s Book Fair
Who’s News: Authentic Brands Group Appoints Sanjeet Mehta as EVP, Head of India
TLL Staff Former Disney exec Sanjeet Mehta has been appointed Head of India by the global brand and licensing giant Authentic Brands Group. Mehta brings more than 25 years of experience across retail, sales, business development and marketing. ABG says he has demonstrated a proven track record in overseeing large-scale operations, spearheading startups and working in highly … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Authentic Brands Group Appoints Sanjeet Mehta as EVP, Head of India
Analysis: Licensing and Consumer Goods Industries Will Be Hard Hit by Trump Tariffs
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The tariff hammer dropped at midnight Tuesday, and reaction on the markets was swift and brutal, as consumer confidence plummeted to an alarming low in February. That’s very bad news for the licensing industry, which relies on consumer confidence to spur discretionary spending on a wide variety of goods. That’s expected to worsen, … [Read more...] about Analysis: Licensing and Consumer Goods Industries Will Be Hard Hit by Trump Tariffs
Kahoot! Welcomes Hello Kitty and Friends to Educational Gaming
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Kahoot! has launched a collaboration with Sanrio to create free educational games inspired by the company's popular character IPs. Designed for both children and adult learners, the collection will include digital games that feature well-known characters like Hello Kitty, My Melody, Kerokerokeroppi and more. "We are excited to launch … [Read more...] about Kahoot! Welcomes Hello Kitty and Friends to Educational Gaming
The Met Signs LicenseWorks as its Indian Licensing Representative
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter LicenseWorks has signed a partnership with The Metropolitan Museum of Art to expand the institution's licensing program to the Indian market. "We are thrilled to represent The Met and bring highlights of this iconic institution to India," said LicenseWorks managing partner, Rishabh Singla. "Art has a unique ability to connect people, and … [Read more...] about The Met Signs LicenseWorks as its Indian Licensing Representative
Goodnotes Expands Branded Offerings with Sanrio-Themed Digital Stationery Collection
TLL Staff The popular digital note-taking app Goodnotes has announced the launch of a Sanrio-themed digital stationery collection on its in-app Goodnotes Marketplace. This collaboration marks Goodnotes' second global branded release in partnership with digital stationery leader Webudding, following the successful debut of a BTS-themed collection in May 2024. The Sanrio … [Read more...] about Goodnotes Expands Branded Offerings with Sanrio-Themed Digital Stationery Collection
Black+Decker Enters Smart TV Sector in India
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Black+Decker, a brand best known for tools and appliances, is now offering Smart TVs through a partnership with India's Indkal Technologies. “With over 100 years of innovation, BLACK+DECKER continues to expand its portfolio to meet the needs of our evolving consumers,” said Amit Datta, Commercial Director Licensing, Stanley Black … [Read more...] about Black+Decker Enters Smart TV Sector in India
“Dream Partnership:” Aardman Producing Content for Pokémon
TLL Staff The animation studio Aardman, creators of Wallace & Gromit, Chicken Run, and Shaun the Sheep, is bringing its stop-motion expertise to the world of Pokémon. The Pokémon Company International and Aardman announced Wednesday that content coming from their collaboration will be released sometime in 2027. What will that content consist of? Unfortunately, there are … [Read more...] about “Dream Partnership:” Aardman Producing Content for Pokémon
Gibson Guitar Fraud Shows Importance of Brand Protection Technology
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The recent seizure of 3,000 fake Gibson guitars highlights the need for IP security measures, says JPatton Business Development Manager Franco Diaz. The counterfeit guitars, had they been genuine, would have been worth $18.7 million, which would put a sizeable dent in the revenues of the legendary American guitar producer. "Brand owners … [Read more...] about Gibson Guitar Fraud Shows Importance of Brand Protection Technology