“We want to be led and driven by customer needs”: Ella Haynes – BLE Event Director at Informa Markets – on keeping the show relevant, inspiring and vital.

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at the FMCG sector, revealing some highlights from the summer.

“Not only does our work with Hasbro allow us to honour D&D’s 50-year history, but it also underscores our shared values of creating savoured moments and forging lasting friendships,” said Brett Vanderkamp, CEO and founder of New Holland Brewing Company.

“We strongly believe that every child needs a cuddle and benefits from an environment that fosters positive affirmations,” said Lucy Freeth, Founder of Hug Me Pillows.

Benjamin Hogue – Owner of Bandou – discusses working with Born to License to explore branded versions of the firm’s award-winning kids’ headphones.

“Rocky Horror is more than just a show – it’s a cultural phenomenon,” said Trevor Cash, Director of Mad Beauty.

“For 25 years, thousands upon thousands of new brand licensing partnerships, deals and products have started at BLE during meetings, networking moments, opportunistic hellos and showfloor browsing” said BLE event director Ella Haynes.

“This year’s programme includes a free, inclusive three-day conference programme, valuable networking opportunities and lots of fun ‘not-to-be missed’ events,” said BLE event director Ella Haynes.

Jo Galpin – International Hardlines Manager and Cross-Category Manager for Italy & the Middle East at Moonbug Entertainment – talks us through her approach to crafting collabroations for IP like Blippi, CoComelon and Morphle.

“The astonishing craftsmanship that is brought to our beloved characters is truly remarkable,” said Katri Chacona, Head of Brand Licensing at Rovio.