Is The Licensing Show 2023 worth attending. How can brands maximize their participation. What are the key benefits of this premier licensing event. Why is networking crucial at The Licensing Show. How does the event facilitate global expansion.
The Power of Licensing: Amplifying Revenue and Brand Exposure
Licensing has emerged as a potent strategy for businesses of all sizes to expand their reach and boost revenue. By allowing other companies to leverage their brand or intellectual property, businesses can tap into new markets and generate substantial royalty payments. The Licensing Show, held annually in Las Vegas, serves as the epicenter for this thriving industry, attracting over 15,000 attendees from diverse sectors.
Why has licensing become such a crucial aspect of modern business strategy? It offers a unique opportunity to:
- Expand brand visibility without significant capital investment
- Generate passive income through royalties
- Enter new markets and product categories
- Capitalize on existing brand equity
- Foster strategic partnerships across industries
Unrivaled Networking: Connecting with Key Decision Makers
One of the primary reasons The Licensing Show is considered invaluable is the unparalleled access it provides to licensing decision makers. The event attracts a diverse array of participants, from global Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups and indie brands. This convergence of industry players creates a fertile ground for forging lucrative partnerships and exploring new opportunities.
Which types of companies can you expect to encounter at The Licensing Show?
- Retail giants (e.g., Walmart, Target, Amazon)
- Film studios and entertainment companies
- Game developers and technology firms
- Fashion labels and lifestyle brands
- Consumer products manufacturers
- Licensing agencies and consultants
For brands with products or intellectual property ripe for licensing, the exposure opportunities are virtually limitless. The event’s structure facilitates both planned meetings and serendipitous encounters, maximizing the potential for meaningful connections.
Educational Opportunities: Staying Ahead of Industry Trends
Beyond deal-making, The Licensing Show offers a wealth of educational sessions and insider expertise. These learning opportunities cater to professionals at all levels, from licensing newcomers to seasoned veterans.
For Licensing Novices:
- Understanding licensing fundamentals and best practices
- Navigating contract terms and negotiations
- Developing effective licensing programs
- Avoiding common pitfalls in licensing agreements
For Experienced Professionals:
- Insights into emerging trends and market shifts
- Strategies for expanding into new tiers of licensing
- Innovative approaches to growth and brand extension
- Case studies of successful licensing campaigns
These seminars and workshops provide immediately actionable takeaways, empowering attendees to enhance their licensing strategies and drive business growth.
Global Reach: Expanding Your Brand’s International Footprint
As brands achieve success in domestic licensing, international expansion often becomes the next logical step. The Licensing Show facilitates this global ambition by bringing together companies from over 100 countries. This diverse attendance opens doors to new geographical licensing opportunities and cross-cultural partnerships.
How does The Licensing Show support international expansion?
- Facilitates connections with international licensees and licensors
- Provides insights into regional market trends and consumer preferences
- Offers sessions on navigating international licensing regulations
- Showcases successful case studies of global licensing campaigns
- Creates opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration
Despite its massive scale, The Licensing Show ensures targeted networking through industry-focused events. Whether your brand specializes in art, sports, gaming, fashion, food, character licensing, or another niche, you can connect directly with key decision makers in your sector.
Product Previews: Glimpsing the Future of Licensed Merchandise
One of the most exciting aspects of The Licensing Show is the opportunity to preview upcoming licensed products and merchandise. These sneak peeks provide valuable insights into consumer trends and innovative approaches to brand extension.
For licensors, these previews represent the tangible results of profitable partnerships. They offer a chance to see how their brands are being leveraged across different product categories and markets. For companies seeking licensing partners, these innovative products can spark inspiration on new ways to utilize branding and intellectual property.
What types of product previews can attendees expect?
- Cutting-edge technology integrations
- Sustainable and eco-friendly product lines
- Cross-brand collaborations and mashups
- Innovative packaging and display concepts
- Limited edition and collectible items
By observing these product showcases, attendees gain valuable market intelligence and can identify potential gaps or opportunities in their own licensing strategies.
Trend Insights: Shaping Strategic Planning
The Licensing Show serves as a barometer for the broader licensing industry, offering unparalleled insights into current and emerging trends. By engaging in live conversations and observing the direction of unveiled products, attendees can gain a comprehensive understanding of where the market is headed.
How can these trend insights benefit your business?
- Inform proactive planning and strategy development
- Identify untapped market opportunities
- Guide product development and innovation
- Refine target audience and market positioning
- Anticipate shifts in consumer preferences
For licensors, these insights allow for more strategic decision-making when considering potential partnerships. Licensees, on the other hand, can leverage this market research to identify promising brands or properties for collaboration.
Maximizing Your Investment: Strategies for Success at The Licensing Show
While The Licensing Show offers immense value, maximizing your return on investment requires careful planning and strategy. The event spans several packed days, demanding your energy and focus. To optimize your experience, consider the following tips:
- Set clear goals and priorities to guide your scheduling
- Research exhibitors and sessions aligned with your objectives
- Schedule key meetings in advance to ensure face time with priority contacts
- Coordinate follow-ups within 24 hours while conversations are fresh
- Capture key insights, ideas, and takeaways throughout the event
- Join relevant social media and event platforms to connect with fellow attendees
- Allocate time for both planned activities and spontaneous networking
By approaching The Licensing Show with a well-defined strategy, you can ensure that your time and resources are utilized effectively, maximizing the potential for valuable connections and insights.
The Evolution of The Licensing Show: Adapting to Industry Changes
As the licensing industry continues to evolve, so too does The Licensing Show. Each year, the event adapts to reflect emerging trends, technologies, and market dynamics. This commitment to staying current ensures that attendees receive the most relevant and valuable experience possible.
How has The Licensing Show evolved in recent years?
- Increased focus on digital and interactive licensing opportunities
- Greater emphasis on sustainability and ethical licensing practices
- Expanded representation of non-traditional licensing categories
- Enhanced use of technology for networking and deal-making
- More diverse and inclusive programming and representation
By staying attuned to these changes, The Licensing Show maintains its position as the premier event for licensing professionals, continually delivering fresh insights and opportunities.
The Impact of Digital Transformation on Licensing
One of the most significant shifts in recent years has been the impact of digital transformation on the licensing industry. The Licensing Show has responded by incorporating more content and exhibitors focused on digital licensing opportunities, including:
- Mobile apps and games
- Virtual and augmented reality experiences
- Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and blockchain-based licensing
- Digital-first brands and influencers
- E-commerce and direct-to-consumer licensing models
These digital innovations have opened up new avenues for brand extension and revenue generation, making The Licensing Show an essential event for staying ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Sustainability and Ethical Licensing: A Growing Priority
As consumers become increasingly conscious of environmental and social issues, The Licensing Show has placed greater emphasis on sustainability and ethical licensing practices. This shift is reflected in various aspects of the event:
- Dedicated sessions on sustainable product development and packaging
- Showcases of eco-friendly licensed merchandise
- Discussions on fair labor practices in licensed manufacturing
- Presentations on cause-related licensing and social impact
- Networking events focused on sustainable business practices
By highlighting these important issues, The Licensing Show encourages attendees to consider the broader impact of their licensing strategies and explore ways to align their practices with consumer values.
Measuring Success: Quantifying the Value of Attending The Licensing Show
While the benefits of attending The Licensing Show are clear, it’s essential to quantify the return on investment to justify the time and resources allocated. How can attendees measure the success of their participation?
- Number of meaningful connections made
- Potential deals initiated or finalized
- New market insights gained
- Competitive intelligence gathered
- Educational value from sessions attended
- Brand exposure achieved
Many attendees find that a single successful licensing deal can more than justify the costs associated with attending and exhibiting. When factoring in the long-term value of relationships built, knowledge gained, and opportunities identified, the scale tips even further in favor of participation.
Long-Term Benefits of Consistent Attendance
While a single year’s attendance can yield significant benefits, the true value of The Licensing Show often compounds over time. Regular participation allows for:
- Building and nurturing long-term industry relationships
- Establishing your brand as a key player in the licensing space
- Tracking industry trends and evolution over time
- Refining and optimizing your licensing strategy year-over-year
- Leveraging cumulative knowledge and connections for greater success
By viewing attendance as a long-term investment in your brand’s licensing success, you can maximize the value derived from The Licensing Show and position your business for sustained growth in the licensing industry.
Preparing for Success: Pre-Show Planning and Strategy
To make the most of your time at The Licensing Show, thorough preparation is key. A well-crafted strategy can help you navigate the event efficiently and maximize your chances of achieving your goals. Consider the following steps as you prepare for the show:
- Define your objectives: Clearly outline what you hope to achieve by attending The Licensing Show. Are you looking to find new licensing partners, gather market intelligence, or showcase your brand to potential licensees?
- Research attendees and exhibitors: Review the list of confirmed attendees and exhibitors to identify key contacts and potential partners. Prioritize those that align with your business objectives.
- Schedule meetings in advance: Reach out to priority contacts and schedule meetings before the event. This ensures you’ll have dedicated time with important decision-makers.
- Prepare your pitch: Develop a concise and compelling pitch that clearly communicates your brand’s value proposition and licensing opportunities.
- Create marketing materials: Design and produce high-quality marketing materials that effectively showcase your brand and licensing offerings.
- Plan your schedule: Map out your days, balancing pre-scheduled meetings, must-attend sessions, and time for spontaneous networking.
- Set measurable goals: Establish specific, quantifiable goals for the event, such as the number of meetings held or leads generated.
By investing time in pre-show planning, you’ll be better equipped to navigate The Licensing Show efficiently and maximize your chances of success.
Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Networking
The Licensing Show often provides digital tools and platforms to facilitate networking and scheduling. How can attendees make the most of these technologies?
- Familiarize yourself with the official event app or platform before arriving
- Use matchmaking features to identify potential partners based on shared interests or goals
- Engage in pre-show online discussions or forums to initiate conversations
- Utilize digital scheduling tools to manage your appointments efficiently
- Participate in virtual networking events or sessions that complement the in-person experience
By embracing these digital tools, you can extend your networking reach beyond the physical confines of the event and maximize your opportunities for meaningful connections.
Post-Show Follow-Up: Turning Connections into Opportunities
The work doesn’t end when The Licensing Show concludes. Effective follow-up is crucial for turning the connections and insights gained at the event into tangible business opportunities. Consider the following strategies for post-show engagement:
- Prompt follow-up: Reach out to key contacts within 24-48 hours of the event while conversations are still fresh.
- Personalized communication: Reference specific discussions or shared interests in your follow-up messages to make a lasting impression.
- Provide additional information: Share any promised materials or additional details about your licensing opportunities.
- Schedule next steps: Propose concrete next steps, such as a follow-up call or meeting, to maintain momentum.
- Update your database: Organize and update your contact database with new connections and relevant notes.
- Share insights internally: Brief your team on key learnings, trends, and opportunities identified at the show.
- Evaluate and plan: Assess your performance against pre-set goals and start planning for next year’s event.
By implementing a structured follow-up process, you can maximize the long-term value of your participation in The Licensing Show and lay the groundwork for future licensing success.
Leveraging Social Media for Continued Engagement
Social media platforms offer valuable channels for maintaining connections and visibility after The Licensing Show. How can attendees effectively use social media for post-show engagement?
- Share highlights and key takeaways from the event on your professional profiles
- Engage with event-specific hashtags to continue industry discussions
- Connect with new contacts on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn
- Share relevant content that addresses topics or trends discussed at the show
- Participate in online groups or communities focused on licensing and brand extension
By maintaining an active online presence, you can extend the networking benefits of The Licensing Show long after the event has concluded, fostering ongoing relationships and staying top-of-mind with potential partners.
Introduction to The Licensing Show and Its Value for Brands
The Licensing Show, held annually in Las Vegas, is the premier event for brands looking to capitalize on licensing opportunities. With over 15,000 attendees flocking to the multi-day conference and expo, it’s clear that licensing continues to be big business. But is The Licensing Show worth the investment of time and money to attend? For most brands, the answer is a resounding yes.
Licensing is no longer just for major corporations and entertainment properties. Small businesses, entrepreneurs, inventors and creators of all kinds have awakened to the power of licensing to amplify revenue opportunities. By allowing other companies to leverage your brand or IP, licensing provides a lucrative stream of royalty payments and brand exposure. The Licensing Show is the central hub where licensors and licensees across industries converge to network, share ideas, discover trends and forge lucrative partnerships.
Let’s dig into the key reasons The Licensing Show delivers unmatched value for brands seeking strategic licensing relationships:
Unrivaled Access to Licensing Decision Makers
From global Fortune 500 companies to boutique indie brands, The Licensing Show attracts the gamut of serious players in the licensing space. Retail giants like Walmart, Target and Amazon cross paths with film studios, game developers, fashion labels, consumer products companies and manufacturers of every size and industry. For brands with products or intellectual property ripe for licensing, the exposure opportunities are endless.
Licensing Education for Next Level Growth
Beyond deal-making, The Licensing Show provides a wealth of educational sessions and insider expertise. Licensing newcomers can get up to speed on best practices, terms, effective programs and avoiding pitfalls. Veterans can gain fresh perspective on emerging trends, new tiers of licensing and innovative growth strategies. The seminars offer immediately actionable takeaways for building licensing success.
Global Reach and Cross-Industry Appeal
Once a brand hits it big in licensing, global expansion is often the next frontier. The Licensing Show gathers companies from over 100 countries, opening doors to new geographical licensing opportunities. Despite its massive scale, The Licensing Show facilitates targeted networking through industry-focused events. Whether your brand falls into art, sports, gaming, fashion, food, characters or another niche, you can connect directly with key decision makers in your sector.
Sneak Previews of Future Licensed Products
A glance at vendors’ booths provides exciting glimpses of what licensed products and merchandise consumers will soon encounter on shelves. For licensors, these previews represent the fruits of profitable partnerships. And for companies seeking partners, the innovative products can spark inspiration on ways to leverage branding. It’s a peek into the future of licensing.
Trend Insights for Strategic Planning
The Licensing Show represents the pulse of the broader industry. Engaging in the live conversations and observing the direction of products unveiled provides tremendous insight into current trends. Licensors can factor emerging shifts into proactive planning, instead of reacting late. For licensees, it’s invaluable market research revealing untapped opportunities.
In our hyper-connected world, events must deliver exponential value to warrant time and monetary investments. For licensing professionals, The Licensing Show stacks up as a top tier opportunity. The paying off of deals solidified can alone justify costs of attending and exhibiting. When you factor in the education, research, exposure, connection building and inspiration, the scale tips even further in favor of participation.
Of course, maximizing value from The Licensing Show requires careful planning and strategy. The event spans several packed days, demanding your energy and focus. Here are tips to optimize your experience:
- Set clear goals and priorities to guide scheduling
- Research exhibitors and sessions aligned to your goals
- Schedule key meetings in advance
- Coordinate follow-ups within 24 hours while conversations are fresh
- Capture key insights, ideas and takeaways throughout the event
- Join relevant social media and event platforms to connect with fellow attendees
The Licensing Expo evolves each year, but provides a rock-solid foundation for licensing education and deal-making. Staying ahead of emerging trends and building strategic relationships are imperative for growth. With smart planning and participation, The Licensing Show 2023 promises to deliver big returns for brands seeking the next wave of licensing success.
Who Attends The Licensing Show and Why It Matters
The diverse mix of attendees flocking to The Licensing Show is a major contributor to its unparalleled value. Building connections with the right companies and professionals is vital for licensing success. So exactly who attends this premier event? And what motivates them to travel to Vegas and immerse themselves in the licensing sphere?
The licensors exhibiting and attending The Licensing Show span a wide spectrum. From major brands like Disney, Mattel and Hasbro to smaller design shops, inventors and rising stars, companies with products and intellectual property see the event’s potential. Established players hope to identify fresh licensing opportunities and partners to continue momentum. Emerging brands aim to propel growth through initial licensing deals resulting from exposure at the show.
On the other side of the equation, licensees range from product manufacturers and distributors to retail giants. Licensees attend to gain inspiration on new licensed product opportunities and scout new properties and brands to license. Renewing and expanding partnerships with existing licensors is another draw.
Professionals specialized in licensing also flock to The Licensing Show, including attorneys, consultants, marketing experts, analysts and more. They provide services to both licensors and licensees, helping broker and manage licensing programs and agreements. Many attend to network, generate new business leads and demonstrate expertise.
With this diverse medley of attendees, The Licensing Show facilitates valuable cross-pollination. Licensors gain insight into licensees’ needs and strategies. Licensees better understand licensors’ brand objectives and how licensed products fit. Service providers bridge the gap, forging connections through their bird’s eye industry view.
Forging new partnerships remains the central focus. With unlimited potential to mix and match properties and product categories, the licensing landscape is ripe for innovation. A toy company may identify an emerging media property that could lend itself to plush dolls or action figures. Or an accessory designer may discover a hot new brand to license for branded handbags. These accidental discoveries happen frequently, opening unexpected doors.
Access to key decision makers fuels this deal-flow. Attendees can expect to rub shoulders with directors of licensing, product development, marketing and more from top companies. Many exhibitors even bring their CEOs to explore opportunities. Conversations lead to tangible partnerships, as brands hand-select who they’ll license.
Beyond deals, attendees cite several other factors that make The Licensing Show worthwhile:
- Learning about industry trends, innovations and success stories through keynotes and seminars.
- Gaining insights into how peers are leveraging licensing to grow.
- Collecting market research by observing newly licensed products.
- Tapping into the enthusiasm and passion of fellow licensing professionals.
- Exploring potential category and geographic expansions.
- Boosting creativity and ideas through immersive experiential brand displays.
With these motivations driving participation, the crowd at The Licensing Show converges with focus and enthusiasm. Attendees aim to soak up fresh perspectives, seal handshakes and unpack new potential. The diverse mix of companies and roles spurs innovation. Networking and sharing intel remains core, but competition takes a backseat to exploring symbiotic relationships.
The Licensing Show provides fertile ground for licensing professionals to cultivate connections. Though larger in scale than ever, the event fosters an intimate community vibe. Running into familiar faces and catching up organically enhances formal meetings. The open, creative environment lends itself to sparks of inspiration and unlocking hidden opportunities.
The exceptional access to key decision makers remains The Licensing Show’s trump card. Sitting across from influential executives in short succession would normally require months of navigation and appointments. The show’s value concentrates and accelerates the process. And with so many passionate professionals eager to usher in the next big licensed product or brand, the potential feels unlimited.
The Evolution of Licensing and The Licensing Show Over the Years
Hey friends, let’s take a walk down memory lane and chat about how licensing and The Licensing Show have evolved over the years. I don’t know about you, but I find it fascinating to see how certain industries transform decade after decade!
Back in the early 1900s, licensing was just starting to become a thing. Companies realized they could make extra moolah by slapping their logos and characters on stuff like t-shirts, toys, and household goods. It allowed them to tap into new revenue streams beyond their core products and services. Pretty smart, eh?
Disney was one of the first to really take advantage of licensing in the 1930s. That’s how Mickey Mouse became a worldwide sensation. Who doesn’t love seeing that adorable mouse’s face on their jammies or lunchbox? It was a win-win – Disney made bank while also growing their brand recognition. Cha-ching!
Over the next few decades, more companies wised up to licensing opportunities. Brands like Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, and Warner Bros got in on the action too. By the 1970s, licensing had become big business as companies rushed to capitalize on pop culture trends.
With the industry booming, the need arose for a dedicated trade show. Enter The Licensing Show – first held in New York City in 1979. It provided a place for major licensors and licensees to schmooze, network, and make deals under one roof. Attendance at the early shows was modest – just a few hundred exhibitors and attendees.
Flash forward to today, and The Licensing Show has evolved into a massive global event. Now held annually in Vegas, it attracted over 16,000 visitors in 2022 from more than 90 countries! With hundreds of exhibitors, the show floor is a who’s who of big brands. From Disney, Warner Bros, Hasbro, and Mattel to relative newcomers like YouTube, TikTok, and Epic Games (hello Fortnite!) – they’re all there vying for licensing opportunities.
The types of products on display have expanded way beyond basic apparel and toys too. You’ll now see licensed items in every category – from foods and beverages, to accessories, home furnishings, collectibles, and even real estate developments. No consumer products segment is off limits for licensors looking to monetize their intellectual property!
Licensing has also grown far more strategic and specialized in recent decades. Companies analyze data to identify optimal partners and territories to target. There’s focus on sustainability, diversity, and creating products tailored to specific demographics. All part of maximizing revenues in this multi-billion dollar industry.
Another shift – the rise of entertainment and character properties as a licensing force. Back in the day, brand names carried more weight. Now buzzworthy films, TV shows, video games, social media platforms, and viral memes are huge licensing opportunities. With pop culture changing at lightning speed, this creates challenges and rewards for nimble licensors.
Digitalization has also dramatically impacted the industry’s evolution. At early Licensing Shows, making deals was an analog affair – business cards, face-to-face meetings, paper contracts. Today, you’ll see QR codes galore along with all kinds of digital brand activations on the show floor. And there are virtual elements allowing global participation beyond the Vegas location.
In many ways, the core value proposition of The Licensing Show remains unchanged – bringing together key players to network and make lucrative connections. But the companies, brands, products, technologies, and trends shaping the industry continue advancing at warp speed!
Who knows what the future may hold? With innovations like digital fashion, VR, NFTs and the metaverse now emerging, licensing frontiers could expand exponentially in the years ahead. One thing’s for sure – I’ll be eager to see what’s in store at The Licensing Show for 2024 and beyond!
Well friends, that concludes our walk down licensing memory lane! Let me know if you have any other fun facts or insights into how this dynamic industry has evolved over the decades. Licensing may have come a long way, but it will surely continue changing with the times. Onward and upward!
What’s New and Exciting at The Licensing Show 2023
Hey folks, it’s that time of year again – The Licensing Show is right around the corner! As a long-time licensing nerd, I’m pumped to give you the scoop on what’s new and exciting for the 2023 event happening this May in Las Vegas.
After going virtual in 2021 due to COVID, last year’s in-person Licensing Expo was a welcome return to normalcy. But some changes implemented during the pandemic are here to stay. The evolution continues with the 2023 show promising to be the biggest and best yet!
For starters, the name has officially changed to The Licensing Show to reflect the event’s global scale and prominence. Brands from over 100 countries will converge at the Las Vegas Convention Center this year. Talk about worldwide reach!
Speaking of reach, the show’s digital platform launched in 2021 will continue allowing virtual participation. This means more people than ever can experience the magic of Licensing – huzzah! They’ve also expanded the show’s focus beyond traditional licensing into emerging areas like digital collectibles, esports, influencer merchandising and more. Gotta keep up with the times, am I right?
Celebrity power will be on display with talent appearances from big names across movies, TV, sports and music. What stars might you spot wandering the show floor this year? My money’s on Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson or Selena Gomez making an appearance to hype their latest ventures.
As always, you can expect eye-catching brand activations and pavilions showcasing the hottest properties. Rumor has it Fortnite will be back with an even bigger booth after their show-stopping display last year. I’m crossing my fingers for an appearance by everyone’s favorite banana guy, Peely!
Cosplay fans rejoice – there’s set to be more characters than ever before from top gaming, anime, and superhero universes. Perfect for snapping those Insta-worthy pics! And expanded experiential zones will let you immerse yourself in multimedia brand worlds. Step right into the Upside Down from Stranger Things or Emerald City from The Wizard of Oz!
For industry pros, a packed schedule of conferences and workshops promises insights on maximizing licensing potential. Learn secrets of the trade across categories like fashion, food, retail, esports, art and non-profit. They’ve also added sessions focused on diversity, sustainability and social responsibility – important topics for today’s conscientious companies.
Listen up collectors and hypebeasts – exclusive product debuts will be dropping all over the show floor. Get first dibs on limited collabs, NFTs, specialty merch and more from your favorite brands and entertainment properties. Last chance for bragging rights!
Networking remains a huge Licensing Show draw. Countless collaboration opportunities await with over 15,000 attendees mingling and making deals. Industry icons will be honored at the prestigious LIMA Awards on opening night. And scores of parties and events provide chances to mix and mingle in true Vegas fashion.
For deal-making, expanded exhibition space allows even more licensees and retailers to showcase their goods. Shop ’til you drop for the coolest licensed toys, fashion, homewares and more. Pro tip: wear comfy shoes because you’ll be hoofing it across over 400,000 square feet of exhibit halls!
Overall, organizers are continuing to evolve the show’s vibe in exciting ways. More experiential elements, less PowerPoint! It’s all about stimulating the senses in our multimedia world. And offering diverse avenues for engagement – whether you’re attending in-person or plugging in from afar.
Of course the true magic of Licensing lies in the eye-popping breadth of brands and properties represented. From blockbuster movies to classic cartoons, sports icons, YouTube stars and cultural sensations – the pop culture landscape will be on colorful display.
So as you can see, The Licensing Show 2023 is shaping up to be bigger, bolder and buzzier than ever! For anyone in the business of buying, selling, promoting or creating licensed goods, it’s THE must-attend event of the year. Yours truly will be there soaking it all in – hopefully I’ll catch you guys on the Show floor!
Let me know if you have any other questions about what’s happening at Licensing 2023. I’m happy to dish on all the cool activations, exhibitors, speakers and opportunities in store. Trust me, it’s going to be a blast. Hope to see your smiling faces in Las Vegas!
Notable Brands and Properties Showcasing This Year
Friends, one of the best parts of attending The Licensing Show is getting a sneak peek at the coolest brand activations and properties on display. The 2023 event is shaping up to be a bonanza, with tons of buzzworthy licensors showcasing their goods.
Let’s dive into some of the highlights coming to Las Vegas this May!
Kicking off with Hollywood, we’ll see blockbuster franchises from Disney, Warner Bros., and more. Expect properties from Marvel’s mighty superheroes, the wizarding world of Harry Potter, DC’s caped crusaders, Star Wars’ epic universe, and the adorable Minions from Despicable Me. No doubt we’ll see new consumer products tied to major movie releases like The Little Mermaid, Indiana Jones 5, and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.
For pop culture buffs, the streaming and TV zone will be media heaven! Get ready for activations from Netflix’s Stranger Things, Star Trek, Cobra Kai, The Witcher and other binge-worthy hits. Plus iconic sitcom brands like Friends, Seinfeld, and The Office continuing their licensing staying power. And who knows which new series will emerge as merchandising juggernauts?
Gaming remains a Licensing Show centerpiece, with giants like Nintendo, Xbox, PlayStation, and Electronic Arts showcasing their newest games. We’ll see the wildly popular Fortnite back with another spectacle. And newbies hoping to score their own licensed merch, from Genshin Impact to Pokémon UNITE. Cosplay fans, prepare for gaming character overload!
For music lovers, talent appearances and branded merch will be on tap from chart-toppers like Post Malone, Billie Eilish, J Balvin, and Dua Lipa. Collabs between artists and fashion brands could yield some especially sick streetwear.
Sports will also draw crowds with leagues like the NFL, NBA, and WWE featuring player merch and team collectibles. Get psyched for soccer mania as the 2026 World Cup looms. And major brands like Nike and Adidas will showcase signature sports collaborations.
In influencer land, top YouTubers like MrBeast will give sneak peeks at their expanding consumer empire. Trending TikTok personalities will show off collabs capitalizing on short-form video fame. And Instagram outfitters with millions of followers will debut limited collections.
For fashion-focused folks, couture houses like Gucci will unveil new collaborations and collector’s pieces. Hypebeast streetwear brands like Supreme and Kith will drop exclusives. And designers like Christian Siriano and Monique Lhuillier will showcase their glamorous takes on Licensing.
In kids, parents and children alike will delight in seeing characters from Paw Patrol, CoComelon, Bluey, Peppa Pig, and more. Educational programming like Sesame Street will teach healthy lessons. And classic animation houses like Warner Bros. and Disney will keep the cartoon nostalgia flowing.
Hungry hippos, get excited – Kellogg’s, Oreo, Chef Boyardee, and more big food brands will showcase new licensed treats and packaged goods. Quirky brands like Bush’s Beans will show licensing’s reach. And upstarts like Cinnabon cereal (?!) will try to become next cereal sensations.
For pop art and photography lovers, iconic names like Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Ansel Adams will showcase new takes on their influential works. Contemporary stars like Jeff Koons, Shepard Fairey and Takashi Murakami will also get in on the licensing action.
In corporate branding, we’ll experience activations from top companies like Coca-Cola, Mattel, General Mills, Kraft, and Procter & Gamble. New licensing opportunities across toys, clothing, foods, and more await these marketing giants.
And of course, hundreds more beloved brands and emerging properties will aim to attract Licensing Show eyeballs. It’s a pop culture bonanza tailor-made for passionate fans and merch heads!
So as you can see, The Licensing Show 2023 promises the biggest brands, most buzzworthy properties, and coolest activations. From Hollywood blockbusters to internet sensations, sports legends to art icons – all facets of entertainment and culture will be on display. Start getting psyched, people!
Let me know if you have questions about specific exhibitors, properties or brand activations headed to Licensing this year. I’m happy to provide more insider info and dig into the key highlights headed to Vegas. See you on the show floor, friends!
How The Show Connects Licensors and Licensees
One of the most valuable aspects of The Licensing Show is the opportunity for licensors and licensees to connect. This event brings together key players from both sides of the licensing equation.
As a quick refresher, licensors own intellectual property (like brands, characters, entertainment content, etc.) that they want to monetize. Licensees are companies that manufacture and distribute licensed products based on that IP.
The Licensing Show provides the ultimate venue for these two groups to meet face-to-face and forge partnerships. It’s like speed dating for the licensing industry!
Let’s take a peek at some of the ways the show fosters these integral business connections:
First and foremost are the exhibition booths on the show floor. Licensors have elaborate displays to showcase their brands and properties. Licensees set up shop to demonstrate their capabilities manufacturing licensed goods across categories like toys, apparel, homewares and more.
It’s a vibrant marketplace for deal-making! Licensors can easily spot potential licensees tailored to their target demographics and product needs. Meanwhile, licensees hunt for hot new properties that align with their business capabilities and retail relationships.
Face-to-face meetings at booths are critical. Licensors pitch the lucrative licensing potential of their IP. Licensees make their case as the ideal partner to produce stellar merchandise. Exchanging business cards and scheduling future calls is the norm.
Of course, good old-fashioned networking happens everywhere at Licensing. At conferences and workshops. Over coffee breaks. At brand-sponsored happy hours. Relationship building is non-stop!
Online matchmaking happens too via the Licensing Expo mobile app. Participants can message each other to set up meetings during downtime. Useful when trying to pin down that elusive executive from the mega toy company!
Special events also boost connection opportunities. The LIMA Opening Night Awards attracts A-listers and is perfect for high-level relationship building. Smaller receptions bring together niche communities within licensing.
For licensors seeking licensees, the show offers boundless partner possibilities under one roof. Licensing veterans Coca-Cola may meet with upstarts like Blippy to explore collaborations. Or pro sports leagues could connect with category giants like Lego or Mattel.
The diversity of licensees at the show is immense. Big consumer product companies rub shoulders with boutique apparel brands, specialty food manufacturers, marketing agencies, and more. Endless partnership potential!
For licensees, Licensing provides a pipeline of fresh IP opportunities with the greatest chance for commercial success. They get early intel on upcoming films, games, entertainment releases and pop culture trends that will drive hot new licensing programs.
Access to key decision makers is invaluable too. A smaller licensee may land an audience with Disney by standing out amongst the Licensing crowds. Opportunities like this are rare outside of the show.
And importantly – deals get signed! While bigger contracts may take months of negotiating, many license agreements happen right on the trade show floor or shortly after. The show’s immediate deal-making power cannot be understated.
In summary, Licensing brings an unparalleled variety of licensors and licensees together for one vibrant week of networking, pitching, comparing notes, and forging partnerships. There’s simply no better place for these licensing pros to discover their perfect match!
The show’s legacy speaks for itself – billions of dollars in licensed merchandise have stemmed from Licensing Expo connections over the decades. It’s the world’s one-stop-shop for building lucrative licensing relationships.
Hope this gives useful insight into how The Licensing Show fuels the licensing ecosystem! Let me know if you need any more details on the show’s matchmaking magic between brand owners and product manufacturers.
Networking and Deal-Making Opportunities
Hey folks! Beyond eye-catching brand activations, one of the biggest values of attending The Licensing Show is the networking and deal-making opportunities.
This epic industry event brings together thousands of licensing professionals from across the business spectrum. Retail buyers and licensees, branding executives and manufacturers, marketers and creatives – they all flock to Vegas for this one-of-a-kind networking extravaganza.
For anyone in the licensing ecosystem, making personal connections at the show can be hugely beneficial. Let’s explore some of the ways Licensing facilitates networking and drives deal-making:
First off, the sheer size and scale fosters endless networking possibilities. With over 15,000 attendees from 90+ countries, you’ll meet more industry peers and prospects than any other event. Walking the show floor and adjoining areas, who knows who you might bump into or strike up a chat with!
Targeted networking events help connect niche communities within the licensing world. Special receptions bring together videogame companies, entertainment execs, footwear folks, and other cohorts. Find your people!
Official programming like seminars, workshops and panels put thought leaders side-by-side. A creative brainstorming session could spark a new partnership. And chatting in the hallways between sessions often proves fruitful too.
The LIMA Opening Night Awards draws the biggest bigwigs for high-level networking. A casual convo over cocktails could become a game-changing connection. This black-tie bash also recognizes inductees into the Licensing Hall of Fame – inspiration awaits!
For scheduled networking, the Licensing Expo mobile app lets you message fellow attendees to coordinate meetings. No more playing “phone tag” or missing connections.
Casual deal-making happens continuously too. Handing out business cards and exchanging cell numbers is the norm. Making new contacts in your specialty area provides future sales channels, intel sources, or potential partners.
Sponsor booths from industry power players are networking hot spots. Strike up conversations and make your pitch on why partnering together could be mutually beneficial.
Impromptu networking blooms in queues, shuttle buses, coffee shops, hotel lobbies and more. Licensing fosters non-stop relationship building!
For deal-making, hundreds of exhibitor booths allow you to connect with prospective partners. Discuss collaborations, evaluate capabilities, visualize end products – the show floor sparks possibility!
Smaller vendors can interface with retail giants that normally may be inaccessible. And intimate settings stimulate creativity. Licensing’s informal vibe encourages authentic deal-making dialogues.
Deals often materialize post-show too. The connections made at Licensing serve as critical foundations for partnerships that develop year-round. The conversations plant seeds that blossom into lucrative deals down the road.
Of course, online networking opens up Licensing connections to remote participants too. Virtual elements like livestreams, social media hangouts, and messaging apps broaden the opportunity.
At the end of the day, bringing thousands of passionate licensing professionals together under one roof is invaluable. The show provides quality time and space to nurture relationships, exchange ideas, size up partners, and negotiate win-win collaborations.
For anyone seeking strategic connections and partnerships in licensing, nothing compares to the in-person networking and deal-making power of The Licensing Show. Make the most of this opportunity to propel your business forward!
Let me know if you need any tips and tactics for maximizing your networking ROI at Licensing. I’m happy to share advice on identifying your ideal connections, conversation starters, follow-up techniques, and squeezing the most value out of industry events. Talk soon!
Educational Sessions and Insights into Industry Trends
Hey friends! Beyond the exhibition floor, another major draw of The Licensing Show is the stellar educational programming. Attending sessions is a smart way to gain valuable insights into the latest licensing trends and best practices.
Let’s explore some of the knowledge-building opportunities happening at Licensing 2023:
For starters, the Licensing Academy offers two full days of workshops for industry newbies. Get schooled on licensing fundamentals, retail partnerships, legal considerations, and more. Essential education for entering this complex industry!
The Global Licensing Group will host a full-day symposium focused on industry updates and international opportunities. Learn global licensing strategies from both corporate and creative viewpoints.
Can’t miss conferences will dive deep into key sectors like entertainment, character, fashion, art, and corporate branding. Hear directly from category leaders about trends, case studies and growth tactics.
Intimate breakout sessions give niche topics the spotlight. Choose from workshops on topics like esports licensing, sustainability, developing brand style guides, optimizing social campaigns, and leveraging digital influencers.
Expert panels will feature licensing luminaries sharing secrets of their success. Q&A sessions let you get answers to your most burning questions.
College students and aspiring professionals can get career advice and portfolio reviews at the Next Gen Talent hub. Say hello to your future colleagues!
The Licensing Expo keynote address historically features an industry icon. Learn from a licensing legend about evolving in times of change.
Can’t catch every session live? Video recordings allow you to absorb content on-demand so no insights are missed.
Creative collaborations will flourish at hands-on workshops focused on topics like developing engaging brand extensions and strengthening character identity. Imagine the partnerships that could emerge!
Expert-led retail tours promise an inside look at merchandise trends. Peek at how licensees optimize shelving, visuals and shopping experiences.
thEdu sessions also uncover cultural forces driving consumer demand. Discover how diversity, ethics, environmentalism, and technology are shaping licensing’s future.
And the Licensing Expo keynote address historically features an industry icon. Learn from a licensing legend about evolving in times of change.
Can’t catch every session live? Video recordings allow you to absorb content on-demand so no insights are missed.
Creative collaborations will flourish at hands-on workshops focused on topics like developing engaging brand extensions and strengthening character identity. Imagine the partnerships that could emerge!
Expert-led retail tours promise an inside look at merchandise trends. Peek at how licensees optimize shelving, visuals and shopping experiences.
Edu sessions also uncover cultural forces driving consumer demand. Discover how diversity, ethics, environmentalism, and technology are shaping licensing’s future.
Of course, chatting with fellow attendees between sessions often provides value too. Share war stories and solutions to common challenges.
With education for every role – brand marketers, manufacturers, retailers, creatives and more – Licensing delivers a crash course on capitalizing on industry trends and avoiding pitfalls.
The sessions ensure you return home with actionable ideas to refresh your licensing strategy. And connections made at workshops can inspire future mentorships, partnerships and collaborations.
Hope this gets your wheels turning on the wealth of insights and takeaways Licensing education offers. Let me know if you need any other details on the programming agenda for 2023. Happy learning, folks!
Sneak Peeks at Upcoming Licensed Products and Launches
One of the most exciting parts of attending The Licensing Show is getting those exclusive sneak peeks! Licensing offers an inside look at upcoming licensed products and launches before anything hits retail shelves.
For pop culture fans and merch junkies, this insider access is invaluable. Let’s dive into some examples of the exclusive product previews you can expect at the show:
Hollywood’s biggest studios will showcase movie-themed merchandise tied to upcoming blockbuster releases. Get a first glimpse at the coolest toys, apparel, and collectibles from films like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Indiana Jones 5, Super Mario Bros., Barbie and more.
Gaming companies will reveal new console-branded hardware and accessories launching later in 2023 and beyond. Imagine playing next year’s top Xbox and PlayStation games on the very gear previewed at Licensing!
Streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+ will show off licensed products inspired by anticipated original movies and shows. Examples could include Stranger Things action figures, WandaVision costume replicas, and The Mandalorian LEGO sets.
Sports leagues and athletes will debut upcoming fan apparel and merchandise. See what goods get fans hyped for the 2023/2024 seasons before actual jerseys hit stands.
Food and beverage brands will offer taste tests of new flavors, promotional packaging, and licensed products. Ever dream of trying Oreo cereal or Jelly Belly energy drinks before they launched? Here’s your chance!
Book publishers will showcase upcoming book-to-film adaptations and early licensed tie-ins. Get the goods before the next Harry Potter, Hunger Games or Dune takes the world by storm.
Apparel brands will unveil upcoming collabs with entertainment properties, celebrities and influencers. Take a peek at collections with Rihanna, Beyoncé, and other stars before they go viral.
Art galleries will exhibit limited edition prints featuring licensed characters by famed pop artists. See one-of-a-kind collectibles before auction bidding wars begin.
Toy makers will demo their latest tech-powered contraptions before manufacturing gets rolling. Be among the first to try video game-linked robots, AR-enabled action figures and more.
Non-endemic brands new to licensing may preview their first-ever merch collaborations. Get surprised at who’s jumping into pop culture partnerships next!
Launch events will generate buzz for properties seeking their first licensees. The next Angry Birds or Hello Kitty phenomenon could be unveiled on the Licensing floor.
And special exclusives like limited edition collectibles, early bird NFTs and prototype demos will give superfans bragging rights back home. Can’t buy this stuff in stores!
In summary, Licensing provides unparalleled insider access to products months before mass market release. It’s like getting a virtual backstage pass to all realms of pop culture.
No need to wait – get a live sneak peek at the future of licensed merchandise right on the show floor. Got any other questions about the exclusive product previews in store for 2023? Let me know!
The Licensing Show’s Global Reach and Industry Impact
When it comes to worldwide reach and influence, no licensing event compares to The Licensing Show. This powerhouse trade show has an unrivaled global footprint and drives billions in annual retail sales.
Let’s take a look at why Licensing is truly the epicenter of the worldwide licensing industry:
First off, the scale is just massive. Over 16,000 licensing professionals from more than 90 countries attended the 2022 Vegas show. And with the virtual component, Licensing’s global digital reach expands even further.
Major companies from every continent exhibit to leverage Licensing’s international exposure. No matter where you’re from – Asia, South America, Europe, Africa or beyond – you’ll find relevant brands and partners.
The show’s prominent Global Licensing Group brings together industry leaders from mature and emerging markets worldwide. Deep insights into regional trends and opportunities emerge.
Licensing’s educational programming takes a global perspective too. Conferences and sessions tackle worldwide category trends, import/export dynamics, cross-border partnerships, and localizing programs for regional success.
For international companies seeking entry into U.S. and European markets, Licensing provides unmatched exposure and credibility. The chance to exhibit alongside category giants offers global growth potential.
Likewise, the show lets American brands spot upstart partners and trends from overseas markets before the competition. It’s like a crystal ball peering into licensing’s worldwide future!
And the deals made at Licensing ripple across supply chains globally. A single partnership may involve manufacturing, distribution and retail execution spanning many countries.
Of course, the internet expands Licensing’s global impact exponentially. Virtual elements allow participation from any corner of the world. And social media spreads event news virally across borders.
The widespread media coverage of Licensing as the industry’s tentpole event also cements its global influence. What happens in Vegas definitely doesn’t stay in Vegas!
When brands exhibit at Licensing, it instantly bolsters their credibility worldwide. The opportunity can fast-track global brand recognition and expansion.
Ultimately, Licensing’s worldwide footprint mirrors the global nature of licensing and pop culture itself. Entertainment and brands know no borders anymore – Licensing reflects this borderless reality.
In terms of dollars and cents, the show’s global scope has massive impact too. Licensing fuels billions annually in worldwide retail sales of licensed goods. The deals initiated there create jobs across many continents.
For all these reasons and more, Licensing provides an unparalleled global platform for the licensing community. No matter your corner of the world, it’s *the* place to make borderless connections in the multi-billion dollar licensing ecosystem.
Let me know if you need any other details on Licensing’s worldwide reach and impact. I’m happy to elaborate on how this show unites the global licensing industry and drives worldwide commerce.
Tips for Maximizing Your Experience at The Show
Alright folks, let’s wrap up with some pro tips to help you make the most of The Licensing Show! This epic Vegas event can be overwhelming for first-timers and veterans alike.
Here are some hacks to maximize your productivity, networking, takeaways and fun at Licensing 2023:
First, study the Licensing Expo event app and map out your must-see exhibitors in advance. With so many booths and endless aisles, planning prevents missing prime targets or wasting time wandering aimlessly.
Prioritize meetings and sessions in your schedule too. Send meeting requests via the app and coordinate your itinerary weeks before stepping foot in Vegas.
Research brands and partners you want to connect with for licensing opportunities. Review their capabilities, retail reach, and portfolio so you can target promising matches.
For networking, pack ample professional collateral – eye-catching business cards, sales sheets, brand demos and more. You need quality materials to create lasting impact in chance encounters.
Bring along your licensing wish list – categories, special promotions, retailers and regions you want to expand into. Licensing’s breadth can help you check off every box.
Come armed with intriguing data, case studies or samples that support your pitch. Numbers, stories and visuals make you memorable when networking in noisy exhibit halls.
Carry a robust charging station for your smartphone and other devices. You’ll be using them constantly, so stay powered up.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes to navigate all the exhibits and events. But look sharp – you never know who you might run into around the next corner.
Pack protein bars or grab food to-go so you can eat on the move between meetings. No time for sitdown meals at Licensing!
Be prepared to exchange cell numbers with promising prospects so talks can continue after Vegas. Follow up quickly post-show to kickstart deals.
Coordinate dinners or drinks with key connections to deepen relationships in a relaxed setting. The sidebar chats can be just as valuable as official events.
Capture plenty of photos and videos to spark memories and share exciting moments on social media. Help build the Licensing hype!
Most importantly, go into the show with an open mind. Avoid dismissing unfamiliar brands or concepts too quickly. Half the magic of Licensing comes in unexpected discoveries.
Arrive early each day and stay late to maximize time among the energetic crowds. You never know what late-in-the-day connections might flourish.
Check out evenings too for lively brand events, cocktail receptions and after-parties. The networking continues into the night!
Follow up on all promising leads within a week after returning home while conversations are fresh. Keep the Licensing momentum going.
Well friends, those are my top tips for making the most of The Licensing Show 2023. Let me know if you have any other questions as you prep for licensing’s most epic gathering in Vegas this May!
Making the Most of Las Vegas Alongside The Show
Las Vegas is an entertainment mecca, packed with world-class restaurants, dazzling shows, pulsating nightclubs, and of course, its iconic casinos. With so much to see and do in this neon-lit playground, it can be overwhelming to plan your visit alongside a trade show like the Licensing Expo. But with some insider knowledge and advance planning, you can make the most of your time in Vegas while still getting the most out of the trade show experience.
The key is balancing your schedule so you don’t overpack your days and exhaust yourself, while also taking advantage of the unique entertainment options available. Here are some tips to maximize your Las Vegas visit:
Strategize Your Schedule
Don’t try to do too much in one day. Take some time to map out your schedule before you arrive. Prioritize the trade show events, sessions, and meetings that are most important for your business goals. Cluster these together so you’re not crisscrossing the city multiple times a day. Then look at the map of Las Vegas to pick hotels, restaurants, shows, etc. near the Convention Center area to minimize travel time.
Also, build in some buffer time between trade show commitments and evening entertainment plans to allow for travel or delays. And don’t overschedule your evenings either – leave some time to just lounge by the pool or explore the casinos so you don’t get burned out.
Book Shows, Restaurants, and Clubs in Advance
Las Vegas has incredible dining and entertainment, but the hottest spots book up fast, especially during major conventions and trade shows. Do your research ahead of time and make reservations where you can to ensure you get into the top places. Some shows like Cirque du Soleil and big-name concert residencies sell out months in advance, so plan accordingly.
The same goes for clubs and restaurants – do some investigating online for the hippest spots with the best food and ambiance and reserve tables. That way you won’t waste precious time standing in long lines or settling for mediocre options.
Take Advantage of Hotel Perks
Book yourself into one of the major hotels right near the Convention Center like Caesars Palace, The LINQ, or The Cosmopolitan. That makes it easy to pop back to your room to freshen up between trade show meetings and evening events.
Many Las Vegas hotels now offer perks like credits for restaurants, shows, and the spa – so use them! Enjoy a relaxing poolside cabana day or pamper yourself with a massage after walking the trade show floor all day. And those dining and entertainment credits let you sample the hotel’s best offerings without blowing your entire budget.
Explore Beyond the Strip
While the Strip has endless attractions, also make time to venture beyond the main tourist zone. Take a night to check out the Arts District, with its funky bars, hipster cafes, and street art. Or head downtown to see the neon-lit Fremont Street Experience and catch a show at one of Downtown’s classic Vegas venues.
A day trip to Red Rock Canyon or Hoover Dam offers beautiful scenery and a chance to soak in the dramatic desert landscape. And the fresh seafood and lively vibe of Chinatown are a nice change of pace from steakhouse dinners and glitzy cocktail lounges.
Stay Hydrated and Well Fed
Las Vegas is notoriously dehydrating due to the dry desert climate, elevated alcohol consumption, and hours of walking between casinos. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially before indulging in any alcoholic beverages at night. The trade show itself also tends to have dry air from the AC, so bring a refillable water bottle.
It’s also easy to overindulge on Vegas buffets and happy hour deals, leaving you feeling sluggish or sick. Counteract this by eating smaller, regular meals focused on lean protein, veggies, and complex carbs. Seek out healthier fare from restaurants with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Pool Days and Spa Time
Build in some time to relax and recharge amid your hectic Vegas schedule. Most hotel pools have DJs, bars, and lounge areas so you can actually make laying out productive by networking with other attendees. Or book a spa treatment like a massage, body wrap, or facelift to look your best for major meetings.
Pack Strategically
Vegas means business during the day but glamour at night. Pack versatile pieces like blazers, slacks, sheath dresses and dressy tops that translate from meetings to cocktails and shows. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking the Convention Center and Strip. And include frivolous fun extras like sequins, feathers and fedoras to embrace the Vegas spirit after-hours.
Making the most of your Las Vegas trip alongside a major trade show requires some strategizing and sacrifice – you can’t do it all. But prioritizing your business objectives along with some wise planning means you can maximize your time in this entertaining city. Use these tips to experience world-class dining, shows, nightlife and poolside lounging without missing a beat on your trade show commitments.
Evaluating if The Licensing Show Aligne with Your Goals
The Licensing Expo, also known as The Licensing Show, is the flagship event for the global licensing industry, bringing together over 15,000 licensing professionals each year. With exhibitors and attendees from over 100 countries, it’s the premier place to make deals and partnerships across sectors like entertainment, sports, fashion, art and design. But is it worth the time and money to attend? Here are some key factors to weigh when deciding if The Licensing Show aligns with your business goals this year:
What’s your niche?
With so many exhibitors and categories, The Licensing Show spans a wide range of industries. Think about your particular niche or sector – are there typically enough relevant exhibitors and events? For broad consumer categories like entertainment and character properties, the answer is usually yes. However for highly specialized areas like technical patents or regional markets, you may find fewer tailored options.
Do your research on past exhibitor lists and the various pavilions and zones. If it looks thin for your focus area, you may be better served by a smaller, niche licensing trade show instead.
Who do you want to meet?
The Licensing Show is the premier venue to connect with key decision-makers from major global brands. Executives from Walt Disney, Warner Brothers, Hasbro, Mattel, and other huge licensors attend each year. Similarly, licensees from major retailers like Walmart, Target and Amazon shop the show.
But again, look at past attendee lists to ensure your desired contacts typically turn up. Reaching out to sales reps or colleagues who’ve attended before can also provide insight into which players consistently show up. If your dream partners don’t make it, you may be better off scheduling one-on-one meetings instead.
What are your objectives?
Think critically about what you hope to accomplish at The Licensing Show. Is your goal to land new deals and partnerships? Raise the profile of your brand? Conduct competitive research? Each objective may require a different approach.
If you want to close new business, booking meetings in advance and mapping out a plan of attack is key. But if brand exposure is more important, investing in an eye-catching booth and sponsoring key events could be money better spent. Clarify exactly what you want to achieve to determine if this show is the right fit.
Can you justify the expense?
Between registration fees, travel and hotel costs, an exhibit booth and collateral, attending The Licensing Show requires serious budget. Be brutally honest about whether the ROI is likely to pan out based on your objectives. Will the new business you may generate cover the costs?
Crunching the numbers from past shows helps inform this decision. It may also be possible to share a booth and expenses with licensing partners to make it more affordable. If budget is tight, attending as an exhibitor may not make financial sense this year.
Is your brand ready?
The Licensing Expo is intense – days are packed with meetings and events alongside thousands of competitors vying for attention. Determine if your brand has the market recognition, product line, support materials, staffing and financing to make a strong showing.
If aspects like your logo, packaging or messaging aren’t fleshed out enough yet, it may be better to wait a year. Attending before you’re ready wastes opportunity and budget. Be honest about where your brand is positioned – a lower-key regional show could be a better fit at this stage.
Do you have bandwidth?
Preparing for and staffing The Licensing Show pulls key staff away from day-to-day business for weeks before and after the event. Determine if you can spare the bandwidth right now without negatively impacting current projects and initiatives.
It’s also grueling spending multiple 12+ hour days working the show and networking events. Exhibitors often schedule shifts to avoid burning out. Gauge if your team has the capacity and endurance to fully leverage this intense experience.
Can you attend the full show?
The Licensing Expo packs programming, special events, exhibitor showcases and more into just a few days. To maximize your investment, it’s critical to attend the entire show from open to close, as well as key networking events before and after the show floor hours.
Skipping days or hours will cause you to miss opportunities. If you can only attend part-time, you may not get the full value. Assess if key staff can commit to the full show timeline.
Attending The Licensing Show requires serious investment, but can yield incredible rewards for brands ready to maximize the opportunity. Analyzing these key factors will determine if now is the right time for your company. Weigh your goals, budget, resources and bandwidth to decide if The Licensing Expo aligns with your licensing needs this year.
How to Prepare and Plan for The Licensing Show
Attending a major trade show like The Licensing Expo requires extensive preparation and planning to maximize the opportunity. With over 15,000 licensing professionals and hundreds of exhibitors vying for attention, you need a rock solid strategy in place. Follow these tips to make the most of your time at The Licensing Show:
Set Your Goals
Begin by defining what you want to accomplish at the show. Do you want to land new deals, raise brand awareness, conduct research or something else? Setting SMART goals with metrics will focus your efforts and help evaluate success afterward.
Align your goals with current business objectives and needs. And be specific – “close 2 new license deals” is better than “network with potential partners.” Clarify exactly what you want to achieve.
Map Out Prospects
Now that your goals are set, make a list of the exhibitors, sponsors and attendees who can help you achieve them. Target companies that are an ideal fit for partnerships or licenses. Also include any VIPs you hope to connect with.
Do research on past attendees and exhibitors to ensure your targets will likely be present this year. You can also request meetings with key prospects in advance through the event platform.
Plan Your Schedule
Review the full show schedule and map out how you’ll spend your time. Calendar keynote speeches, sessions, exhibit hall hours, sponsored events, and networking opportunities.
Also schedule meetings with top prospects. Cluster meetings and events as much as possible to minimize criss-crossing the Convention Center. And build in breaks to recharge – 12+ hour days are exhausting.
Prepare your Booth and Collateral
If exhibiting, design your booth to align with your goals and brand. Highlight key products and messaging you want to feature. And produce collateral like flyers, brochures, banners and giveaways to drive interest.
Make collateral shareable and collect attendee info for follow up. Provide takeaways like free samples or branded items to be memorable. And train your booth staff on talking points.
Leverage Pre-Show Marketing
Promote your presence and offerings before the show via email, social media, ads and press releases. Share sneak peeks, announcements, speaking sessions and giveaways to generate buzz.
Pitch reporters who will be attending on stories related to your brand. And invite existing contacts and local partners to your booth or events.
Download the Event App
Once live, download The Licensing Expo app. It contains the exhibitor list, floor maps, schedules and more. You can request meetings, take notes on prospects, and message contacts through the app.
Turn on alerts so you don’t miss schedule changes or announcements. You can also engage on the event feed with posts and comments.
Pack Properly
Bring comfortable shoes, portable chargers, water and any medications you may need while running around all day. Also pack your schedule, business cards, breath mints and lip balm.
Bring extra collateral in case you need to restock. And pack a small bag for any giveaways you collect along the way.
Arrive Early
Leave buffer time in your schedule to account for travel, parking and walking from place to place in the Convention Center. Expect long registration lines on opening day.
Arrive early each morning to hit the floor and check your booth before appointments start. You can catch up on emails and confirm meetings the night before.
Stay Organized
Keep business cards, notes and collateral from all your meetings in one place. Jot down key details and next steps immediately after meetings while still fresh.
Take photos of interesting booths or products to reference later. And clear action items nightly so you start each day focused.
Thorough preparation and planning will help maximize your investment in The Licensing Show. Define your goals, target key prospects, map out schedules, promote your presence, leverage the app and event feed, pack properly and stay organized every step of the way.
The Future of Licensing and What Next Year’s Show Could Hold
The licensing industry is constantly evolving to keep pace with changes in consumer behavior, technology, social issues and more. As the premier global licensing trade show, The Licensing Expo offers an inside look at where the industry is headed.
By closely following key themes, announcements and product launches at this year’s show, we can predict some of the trends, innovations and companies we’re likely to see at The Licensing Show 2024 in Las Vegas.
The Metaverse Movement
The metaverse was one of the hottest topics across industries this past year, and forward-thinking brands are already staking their claim. From VR activations to digital collectibles, expect immersive experiences to be a major focus.
More brands will leverage gaming platforms like Roblox to promote products and build persistent virtual worlds. Digital-first licensing deals for avatars, skins and accessories will proliferate. And multimedia synergies between physical and virtual worlds will deepen.
Retro Revivals
Nostalgia always has a place in licensing, and the late 90s and Y2K eras are poised for major comebacks. Brands that defined those periods like The Spice Girls, Tamagotchi and Eiffel 65 could reemerge with new deals and products catering to millennial nostalgia.
Vintage media making modern splashes like Friends and Seinfeld could score additional licenses. And expect pop culture revivals like MyScene dolls and Dunkaroos cereal to tap deep wells of retro love.
Sustainability Gets Serious
Sustainable practices have been a growing focus in licensing the past few years, but are set to become non-negotiable. Manufacturers will spotlight eco-friendly production, packaging and shipping for licensed goods.
More brands will mandate sustainability requirements in license agreements. Non-plastic toys, clothing made from recycled materials and minimalist packaging will be table stakes.
Representation Expands
Diverse, inclusive branding and products reflecting more voices will continue accelerating. Companies owned by underrepresented groups will land major licenses, from Afro-Latina beauty brands to Asian food products.
Licensing deals supporting marginalized communities will increase, along with products celebrating cultural diversity, disability representation and LGBTQ+ pride.
Sports Betting Plays
The normalization of sports betting opens new partnership potential. Sports leagues and teams will align with gaming operators for betting lounges, odds integrations and co-branded contests. Athlete licensing could also evolve to support sports gambling.
Gamified fantasy sports experiences leveraging AR and geo-location services will provide new licensing revenue streams as regulations expand.
Interactive Entertainment
Toymakers will take cues from video games to develop licensed play that’s immersive, skill-based and social. App-connected toys, customizable experiences and multiplayer components will create more interactive fun for fans of all ages.
Brand collaborations with alternative reality games, LAN parties and e-sports events could also create licensing opportunities beyond merchandise alone.
Automotive Auction
Iconic auto brands draw huge fandoms ripe for monetization. More automakers will follow Ferrari’s lead in launching licensing programs with high-end collectibles, driving simulators and branded driving academies.
Luxury automotive collaborations in fashion, gaming and experiences provide new income streams. And electric vehicle startups like Tesla and Rivian are brands to watch.
Foodie Fun
From Ghostbusters Twinkies to Harry Potter butterbeer caramels, food and beverage remains hot for pop culture licensing. Snack brands could tap viral recipes on TikTok and Pinterest for products like feta pasta chips or matcha latte oreos.
Ingredients-driven product launches will highlight superfoods and functional benefits beyond flavor, like immunity-boosting candy or probiotic soda.
The future of licensing holds boundless potential, and The Licensing Expo 2024 will capture the innovation and trends driving the industry forward. Expect these emerging spaces alongside the tried-and-true to take center stage next year in Las Vegas.