By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter RMS USA has appointed Heather Wilson as its first chief brand officer and named John Tomulonis as its VP of licensing. With over two decades working in the toy industry, Heather Wilson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in engaging consumer attention and expanding brands. In her new role at RMS USA, she will focus on expanding the … [Read more...] about Who’s News: RMS USA Appoints Two Executives to Senior Leadership Team
U.S.
CAA Tapped to Expand Anheuser-Busch Global Licensing Program
TLL Staff CAA Brand Management has been named the global licensing agency for Anheuser-Busch, expanding its longtime relationship with the brewing giant. The announcement signals a renewed push to take Anheuser-Busch’s brand portfolio beyond the beer aisle, and into a frothy mix of consumer product categories around the world. As part of the agreement, CAA Brand Management … [Read more...] about CAA Tapped to Expand Anheuser-Busch Global Licensing Program
Entertainment Software Association Warns of Tariff Impact
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
US Care Bears Fans Can Now ‘Unlock the Magic’
TLL Staff Maximum Entertainment has officially released Care Bears: Unlock the Magic in the United States on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation5. The physical Nintendo Switch editions are also launching today (Tuesday, April 8). A PlayStation 5 retail version is scheduled to release on May 6. Previously released in Europe across Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5 (retail), and … [Read more...] about US Care Bears Fans Can Now ‘Unlock the Magic’
Panini America Lands Agreement With Football Phenom Travis Hunter
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Panini America has landed an exclusive autographed trading card agreement with University of Colorado standout and 2024 Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter. Hunter is seen as being among the next generation of football stars, after he dazzled fans with his rare two-way play as both a wide receiver and a cornerback for the Buffaloes. Panini … [Read more...] about Panini America Lands Agreement With Football Phenom Travis Hunter
Duke’s Mayo and Mason Hereford Cook Up Co-Branded Kitchen Tools
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Duke's Mayonnaise and Chef Mason Hereford have launched a co-branded kitchen tool set inspired by Hereford's Turkey and the Wolf restaurant. "This collab has been a longtime coming," said Hereford. "Duke's is not just my go-to mayo, it's an essential ingredient in my kitchen. As a standalone, I slather it on tomato sandwiches and dip … [Read more...] about Duke’s Mayo and Mason Hereford Cook Up Co-Branded Kitchen Tools
Waterloo Sparkling Water and Guy Fieri Launch Fruity Beverage Collection
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Waterloo Sparkling Water and Guy Fieri's Flavortown have launched a licensing partnership to introduce three limited-edition beverages. Crafted by Waterloo, the licensed beverages are made with Non-GMO Project Verified natural flavors and purified carbonated water. As with all of the company's sparkling drink varieties, the Guy Fieri … [Read more...] about Waterloo Sparkling Water and Guy Fieri Launch Fruity Beverage Collection
How Canadian Hockey Jerseys Illustrate the Licensing Industry’s Tariff Dilemma
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The tribulations faced by a Canadian sports licensee is providing a Maple Leaf-inspired view of how America's new trade tariffs could impact licensing. SP Apparel Inc. is an apparel company in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, that has been producing the official jerseys of the National Hockey League for decades. In fact, every authentic NHL … [Read more...] about How Canadian Hockey Jerseys Illustrate the Licensing Industry’s Tariff Dilemma
Toy Foundation Grants $405,000 to Bring Power of Play to Pediatric Patients
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief For many children facing hospital stays, playtime often takes a backseat to medical treatments, but thanks to a generous initiative from The Toy Foundation, play is making a comeback in pediatric care. The philanthropic arm of The Toy Association has awarded $405,000 to 23 children’s hospitals and health systems across the U.S., funding … [Read more...] about Toy Foundation Grants $405,000 to Bring Power of Play to Pediatric Patients
McIlhenny and Marzetti Bring the Heat with Spicy Tabasco Ranch
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter McIlhenny Co. and T. Marzetti have teamed up for a collaborative Marzetti ranch dressing that is seasoned with Tabasco Brand hot sauce. The licensing agreement with T. Marzetti was facilitated by IMG Licensing on behalf of the McIlhenny Company's Tabasco Brand. The collaborative partnership is designed to bring the flavor of Tabasco's … [Read more...] about McIlhenny and Marzetti Bring the Heat with Spicy Tabasco Ranch