Gift Focus - Mar/Apr 2019 (Issue 112)

hot property Catch up with all the latest from the world of licensing British Museum brings its licensing programme in-house After three years of working with specialist brand agency TSBA, the British Museum has announced plans to bring its licensing program in-house. The museum is a sought-after licensing partner with a growing list of licensees and high expectations for more. Its licensing program is now a global campaign, matching the prestige of the globally recognised institute, which regularly tours exhibitions overseas. In addition, the museum’s licensing campaign has been successfully launched into China, establishing a strong online presence in the market and opening pop-up shops in Shanghai and Shenzhen. With the foundations in place, the British Museum licensing program hopes to build on its early successes. The British Museum’s collection of more than eight million objects spans the history of the world’s cultures. It’s an extraordinary record of art and artefacts, including some unequalled sources of iconic imagery that have already proved attractive to potential and existing licensees. Craig Bendle, manager of merchandising licensing for the British Museum, said: “We are grateful to TSBA for working so tirelessly to help us establish a successful licensing programme. We now intend to take the next step in developing our licensing programme by bringing it in-house. This will enable us to work directly with our licensing partners and see the huge commercial value that the British Museum can offer through licensing.” Ian Mallalue, TSBA chief executive, commented: “We are very proud of the success we have achieved to establish the British Museum in licensing around the world. We have very much enjoyed working with the team from the British Museum, and we wish them the best of luck in the future.” Bulldog books up two new partners for That’s Not My … series Bulldog Licensing has announced two major new deals for children’s publishing sensation That’s Not My… That’s Not My… is a bestselling series of touchy-feely board books aimed at babies and pre-schoolers. The books have sold more than 25 million copies worldwide, with more than 50 titles to collect. Each page features a different texture, such as soft fur or fuzzy tummy, designed to encourage sensory awareness and interactive play. That’s Not My Unicorn… was the 50 th title published and the bestselling baby book of 2017, the series’ biggest seller to date. Published by Usborne, the series is celebrating its 20 th anniversary. The new deals will see Ravensburger produce jigsaw puzzles and memory card games, while Dreamtex has signed for junior bedding. The two new licensees join two existing partners. A baby apparel range created by Dennicci won 2018’s Progressive Preschool award for best apparel or accessories range and is available in Mothercare and TU at Sainsbury’s. The range was also launched through F&F in November, with six further launches planned for spring/summer. Rainbow Designs produces baby and infant toys under the licence. Bulldog licensing director Vicky Hill said: “ That’s Not My… is a massive hit with little ones and parents and is a big presence in homes, nurseries and libraries across the country. This gives it massive licensing potential, and there are certain to be more deals to come, as we’re in talks with several potential partners across a range of categories.” giftfocus 89 hot property