By Karina Masolova Halloween spending is expected to reach an all-time high this year, according to the National Retail Foundation (NRF)'s Halloween Spending Survey; total spending is expected to reach $8.4 billion, up 21.7% from $6.9 billion in 2015. The last time sales came close was in 2012, at a previous high of $8.0 billion. Over 171 million Americans expected to celebrate … [Read more...] about Halloween Spending Up; Entertainment Tops Costume Choices
Gifts/Novelties
Apparel Fuels 3.1% Growth in U.S./Canada Fashion Licensing—Global Growth Is Even Higher
Growing competition; continued decline in the brick and mortar backyard; currency devaluation in Europe and Asia; a fourth quarter retail fiasco. 2015 was a tough year for the fashion industry. Yet, for all of the challenges, fashion licensing prospered in not only in the U.S./Canada but worldwide, according to The Licensing Letter’s Annual Licensing Business Survey. Global … [Read more...] about Apparel Fuels 3.1% Growth in U.S./Canada Fashion Licensing—Global Growth Is Even Higher
360 Degrees to Every Brand
More than ever before, consumers are demanding access to brands on multiple platforms. This is nothing new: companies around the floor have been aware of the need to develop what are now being called "360 programs," where linear and digital entertainment, live experiences like shows and theme parks, social media, advertising and consumer merchandise are all essential parts … [Read more...] about 360 Degrees to Every Brand
St. Patrick’s Spending to Reach $4.8 Billion
A robust 55% of Americans, or 133 million people are planning to indulge in the Irish spirit on Thursday according to the National Retail Federation’s St. Patrick’s Day consumer survey conducted by Prosper Insights and Analytics. On average, they’ll spend $35 in grocery stores, restaurants and stores selling green merchandise. Although not as high-profile as other holidays, … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Spending to Reach $4.8 Billion
Store Check: Target at Culver City, CA
By Marcy Magiera A week before Disney’s Zootopia scampered into theaters accompanied by predictions of a $67 million opening weekend, limited merchandise was on the shelf at Target stores. A local Target in Culver City, Calif., gave the new IP a toy aisle endcap, sparsely filled with small action figures, playsets and plush. It was unclear whether the selection was already … [Read more...] about Store Check: Target at Culver City, CA
Nintendo NY Re-opens With New Merch, Games
By Karina Masolova The newly branded Nintendo New York store, previously Nintendo World, re-opened Feb. 19th with a new 15-foot gaming screen, exclusive merchandise and appearances by Mario, Luigi and Charles Martinet. The two-floor space has been redesigned with large-scale gaming events in mind; the location boasts larger, open spaces and merchandise on movable … [Read more...] about Nintendo NY Re-opens With New Merch, Games
The Retail Force Awakens: How Much Money Will Star Wars Make?
By Glenn S. Demby, Esq. Most movie-based entertainment properties have a limited shelf life lasting roughly as long as the film's run. Occasionally, exemplary properties like Cars, Monsters Inc. or Toy Story will drive sales for a few years after the film closes. But Star Wars is in a universe of its own. There hasn't been a new Star Wars film since 2005. Yet the franchise … [Read more...] about The Retail Force Awakens: How Much Money Will Star Wars Make?
Rihanna Teams for Temporary Tattoos
Speaking of tattoos, pop star Rihanna is teaming with jewelry designer Jacquie Aiche on a collection of jewelry-inspired black and gold temporary tats. The collection, which retails for $19, is being sold exclusively on Aiche’s website. It comes in a seven-sheet set that includes cuticle and knuckle wraps, a DiY chain set, arm bands and chains. The pair is also planning to … [Read more...] about Rihanna Teams for Temporary Tattoos
New Jersey Highways Become a Brand
They may lack the romance of old Route 66, but the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway are traveled by more than 600 million vehicles and one billion people each year—enough to inspire a licensing program. The roadways will be commemorated on products including t-shirts, hoodies, bags, magnets, mugs, phone cases, beach towels, and wildflower seed packets sold at … [Read more...] about New Jersey Highways Become a Brand
From Brand to Art Work
Playboy’s teaming with Blitzway for a limited edition collection of art figurines designed by global artists featuring iconic Playboy images like the “Bunny” is the latest example of corporate brands being licensed to artists for art work. At $160 a pop, the Playboy deal is more about marketing than profit. “These deals promote artistic creation and give the brand a halo,” … [Read more...] about From Brand to Art Work