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
Corporate
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
Dutch Bros Brews Up Retail Expansion With Packaged Coffee Line
TLL Staff Dutch Bros, one of the fastest-growing brands in the U.S. quick-service beverage industry, is set to bring its signature coffee experience directly to consumers’ homes. With this latest venture, Dutch Bros is stirring up new possibilities, ensuring that fans can now wake up and smell the coffee, right from their own kitchens. Founded in 1992 by brothers Dane … [Read more...] about Dutch Bros Brews Up Retail Expansion With Packaged Coffee Line
Licensing Veterans Release Comprehensive Guide: ‘Fundamentals of Licensing’
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Greg Battersby and Danny Simon have released their latest book, Fundamentals of Licensing. The how-to guide covers every aspect of developing and managing a licensing program from inception to execution, aiming to maximize profitability. Designed for both newcomers and experienced professionals, the book provides insights into best … [Read more...] about Licensing Veterans Release Comprehensive Guide: ‘Fundamentals of Licensing’
NBCUniversal Launching New FAST Channels on LG Smart TVs
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief NBCUniversal and LG Electronics have announced an expanded partnership to bring more content to American audiences through LG smart TVs. The collaboration will offer entertainment, news, sports, Spanish-language programming, and true-crime content, as well as introduce new shoppable experiences for viewers. This initiative builds on … [Read more...] about NBCUniversal Launching New FAST Channels on LG Smart TVs
Tillamook Country Smoker and Mike’s Hot Honey Heat Up the Snack Aisle
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The meat-based snack company Tillamook Country Smoker has created a fiery new partnership with Mike’s Hot Honey. The deal, combining two of the hottest companies in specialized foods, was brokered by Brandgenuity on behalf of Mike's Hot Honey, and Brand Central Group on behalf of Tillamook Country Smoker. Brandgenuity is managing the … [Read more...] about Tillamook Country Smoker and Mike’s Hot Honey Heat Up the Snack Aisle
Unilever to Sell The Vegetarian Butcher to Vivera
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Unilever has announced that it has received a binding offer from plant-based food company Vivera to acquire The Vegetarian Butcher. The brand, founded by Jaap Korteweg, was purchased by Unilever in 2018 and has since achieved strong double-digit growth, expanding to over 55 markets worldwide across retail and foodservice sectors. The … [Read more...] about Unilever to Sell The Vegetarian Butcher to Vivera
McDonald’s x Minecraft Collab Provides Tasty Bites and Bytes
By Gary Symons Editor in Chief McDonald’s and Minecraft are joining forces for the first time in a massive global collaboration that merges the digital and physical worlds. Timed with the highly anticipated release of A Minecraft Movie, the campaign introduces themed meals, collectibles, and exclusive in-game content inspired by the beloved gaming universe. In other … [Read more...] about McDonald’s x Minecraft Collab Provides Tasty Bites and Bytes
Global Licensing Group Launches Licensing Unlocked to Educate Industry Professionals
TLL Staff The Global Licensing Group has unveiled Licensing Unlocked, an educational program designed to bridge the knowledge gap for licensing industry newcomers and provide ongoing learning for seasoned professionals. Developed in partnership with Licensing International, Licensing Unlocked is the first program of its kind to offer online educational sessions both live … [Read more...] about Global Licensing Group Launches Licensing Unlocked to Educate Industry Professionals
OECD Report: Tariff Trade Winds to Slow Global Economic Growth
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