By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The global economy is in for a rough ride as US trade tariffs are expected to cause a widespread decline in GDP growth. The OECD (the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, representing the world's richest economies) headed their interim report in March with a photo of a ship being battered by heavy seas (above), a metaphor … [Read more...] about OECD Report: Tariff Trade Winds to Slow Global Economic Growth
brand licensing
Surge Brands Brings the Sizzle as Licensing Agent for Bacon Up
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Bacon Up, the first national brand of ready-to-use bacon grease, is frying up new opportunities through a partnership with Surge Brands as its global licensing agent. The deal is set to bring Bacon Up into a variety of new product categories, ensuring its rich, smoky flavor extends far beyond the skillet. “Bacon Up’s rich heritage … [Read more...] about Surge Brands Brings the Sizzle as Licensing Agent for Bacon Up
LEGO and Pokémon Join Forces to Build an Exciting New Play Experience
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief In a partnership set to capture fans brick by brick, the LEGO Group and The Pokémon Company International have announced a multi-year collaboration to bring LEGO Pokémon to life starting in 2026. This marks the first time the beloved world of Pokémon will be recreated in LEGO form, offering Trainers and builders an entirely new way to catch … [Read more...] about LEGO and Pokémon Join Forces to Build an Exciting New Play Experience
Andrew Lelchuk Steps into the Licensing Battle for UFC
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The UFC is making a strategic move to bolster its merchandising power, announcing that Andrew Lelchuk has been named Director of Licensing. With this appointment, Lelchuk steps into the octagon of retail, overseeing all aspects of UFC-branded hardline and softline products across North and South America. In his new role, Lelchuk will … [Read more...] about Andrew Lelchuk Steps into the Licensing Battle for UFC
Who’s News: Freddie Lindsell Pursues Science of Licensing at Bulldog
TLL Staff Bulldog Licensing has announced the appointment of Freddie Lindsell as its new Licensing Coordinator. Freddie’s responsibilities will include supporting the team as a whole across the contract process and product approvals. This post has been created to help manage portfolio growth along with the ongoing evolution of service demands for the award-winning … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Freddie Lindsell Pursues Science of Licensing at Bulldog
Build-A-Bear is About to Build-A-CoComelon Collection
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Moonbug Entertainment has teamed up with Build-A-Bear Workshop to launch their first collaborative CoComelon collection. The new line is designed to bring all the musical charm of CoComelon to Build-A-Bear's line of furry plush pals. Available now, the collection allows CoComelon fans to dress their favorite bear in cute outfits, … [Read more...] about Build-A-Bear is About to Build-A-CoComelon Collection
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
Lion Forge’s Iyanu Brings a Global Opportunity to Toy Fair
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Once in a while we at TLL see a property that poses a great opportunity for licensees that we just have to point out. The BBC smash hit Bluey was a great example, as that program, which we featured heavily at successive Licensing Expos, has exploded to become one of the top children's shows in the world. A new show debuting on … [Read more...] about Lion Forge’s Iyanu Brings a Global Opportunity to Toy Fair
Licensing Works and Kewpie Bring the Love on Valentine’s Day
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Kewpie was conceived as a symbol of love and laughter, and the brand certainly lived up to that reputation this Valentine's Day. Licensing Works!, the exclusive agent for the Kewpie Corporation, brokered the launch of several new Kewpie products, timed for Valentine’s Day. Kewpie Corporation owns the global rights for the Kewpie … [Read more...] about Licensing Works and Kewpie Bring the Love on Valentine’s Day
Tom and Jerry Celebrate 85 Years with Global Anniversary Festivities
TLL Staff The animated 'frenemies' Tom and Jerry are marking 85 years of mischief and mayhem with a year-long global celebration. Warner Bros. Discovery has announced an array of licensed commemorative events, exclusive content, and special merchandise to honor the iconic cat-and-mouse pair. New Products and Collaborations A variety of themed merchandise is set to … [Read more...] about Tom and Jerry Celebrate 85 Years with Global Anniversary Festivities