Caption: Hustle & Hope CEO Ashley Sutton won the Mensa competition with a smarter greeting card concept, and is now exploring additional licensing opportunities with American Mensa. TLL Staff Greeting card company Hustle & Hope turned out to be the SMART CHOICE, winning a pitch competition staged by American Mensa. The prodigious brain trust at American Mensa — … [Read more...] about Hustle & Hope Named Winner of Mensa’s ‘Smart Choice’ Competition
Lifestyle licensing
Global Merchandising Unveils First Slate of Licensees for Fender
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Fender Musical Instruments Corp., the guitar maker that gave the world the Telecaster twang and Precision Bass groove, is plugging into new markets as it heads toward a milestone anniversary tour. Global Merchandising Services on Thursday announced the first wave of licensing partners for Fender’s expanding brand extension program, timed to … [Read more...] about Global Merchandising Unveils First Slate of Licensees for Fender
Viral Chinese Collectibles Company Kayou Expands to U.S. Market
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Kayou, China’s largest collectibles company and top trading card brand, is entering the U.S. market this holiday season, marking the latest step in its global expansion. The move comes as Kayou enjoys viral growth rates in Asia. The company nearly quadrupled revenue in 2024 to $1.4 billion, fueled largely by demand for its high-quality … [Read more...] about Viral Chinese Collectibles Company Kayou Expands to U.S. Market
The Week in Licensing: Deals You May Have Missed
Compiled by TLL Staff BARK and Dunkin Celebrate National Dog Day with Toys for Children in NeedDog toy company BARK and Dunkin are teaming up once again to celebrate National Dog Day, bringing back their popular co-branded dog toy collection while raising funds for children in need. The collection, available through Dunkin stores and online, features plush toys inspired by … [Read more...] about The Week in Licensing: Deals You May Have Missed
SmileyWorld Puts Licensing Partners Front and Center in Back-to-School Campaign
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief SmileyWorld has launched a global back-to-school campaign designed to help its licensing partners boost visibility and connect with young consumers through a content-driven approach. Developed by the Smiley Studio Marketing Team, the social-first initiative features playful, influencer-led content in key markets across North America and … [Read more...] about SmileyWorld Puts Licensing Partners Front and Center in Back-to-School Campaign
Focus on Expo: ARC Collective a Powerhouse Talent and Licensing Agency
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief I had the opportunity in April to speak with the founder of one of the most interesting and inspiring entertainment licensing companies I’ve encountered yet. ARC Collective is a talent management company that also creates content, and focuses on the representation of ‘cultural changemakers’ who might not otherwise find top quality … [Read more...] about Focus on Expo: ARC Collective a Powerhouse Talent and Licensing Agency
Who’s News: The London Studio Appoints Jo Astles to Support Expansion Initiatives
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The London Studio has appointed Jo Astles as its new artist and licensing development manager to aid the company's ongoing expansion initiatives. Formerly serving as a licensing professional at the Bright Agency, Astles has developed a comprehensive skill set throughout her career that includes creative design, business management and … [Read more...] about Who’s News: The London Studio Appoints Jo Astles to Support Expansion Initiatives
Konami Launches Yu-Gi-Oh Collections in Anime Hotspot France
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Konami Cross Media has announced several new licensing agreements for the Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise across France and continental Europe. The effort, led by Francoise Bouvet of MJA Licensing, serving as the sub-agent for Yu-Gi-Oh! in France, is headlined by deals with the leading French manufacturer Plastoys, and Paris-based Kettei Art, which … [Read more...] about Konami Launches Yu-Gi-Oh Collections in Anime Hotspot France
Krypto Gets His Own Super Dog Toys and Accessories
Plus, Squishmallows Expands Its Pet Accessory Lineup TLL Staff Krypto the Superdog is getting his own pet accessories line, available now on the DC Shop in advance of the July 11 premiere of Superman. Clark Kent's adorable and bullet-proof dog Krypto may be the most hotly anticipated element of the upcoming Superman movie, given a starring role in the film's first … [Read more...] about Krypto Gets His Own Super Dog Toys and Accessories
Dearfoams Goes Beyond Slippers With New Line for Pets
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Dearfoams, the world’s leading slipper brand, has announced a partnership with Unique Petz, to introduce a new line of pet accessories, apparel, and beds. The collaboration marks the expansion of Dearfoams’ comfort-focused products beyond humans to include their four-legged companions. Launching in Fall 2025, the new collection will … [Read more...] about Dearfoams Goes Beyond Slippers With New Line for Pets