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With new delayed U.S. tariffs announcement, TLL revises its 2019 licensed retail sales projections to top $115.0 billion in the U.S. & Canada.
Retail sales in the U.S. are predicted to grow 4.3% (roughly $4.3 billion) thanks to a holiday season sales rush as retailers and consumers alike stock up on cheap consumer goods before the clock runs out.
Sales in Q1 2020, while expected to be relatively stable compared to the same period last year, will nevertheless drop off dramatically from the previous sales period. And overall 2020 sales are expected to contract in growth as consumer sentiment, the job market, and the overall state of the economy worsens and spending on discretionary consumer goods plummets.
But it’s not only Q4 2019 that promises to boost North American sales. While overall toy and, to a smaller extent, novelties sales faltered in the first half of the year thanks to the demise of Toys”R”Us, growth was strong in markets where the toy retailer lacked penetration, belying strong demand. Licensed apparel and home furniture/housewares sales were also strong based on preliminary reports. Licensed accessories was a mixed bag of triumphs and successes; e.g., while wearables, bags, and luggage performed well, the impact of key fashion licenses dropping certain fragrance and eyewear licenses began to be felt this last couple of months.