Ian Downes
The Brand Radar: Museum Selection and the benefits of a design-led approach to heritage licensing
With Museum Selection turning 20 this year, Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how the retailer is a good example of how to succeed through a laser-like focus on product, design and presentation.
The Brand Radar: Topps, The Hundred and the untapped potential of cricket in collectables
Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at what Topps’ Cricket Attax could do for the wider licensing potential of the sport, with contributions from Greg Lansdowne and Simon Gresswell.
The Ashmolean Museum moves into ale with Hook Norton
“We have poured all of our 173 years of beer and brewing knowledge into creating Ashmolean Ale which we hope will help refresh and inspire minds in equal measures,” said Hook Norton’s Head Brewer and Managing Director, James Clarke.
Team Tea to launch tea collection for The Ashmolean Museum
“The opportunity to create a bespoke blend is a privilege and the aim was to capture the essence of the Museum with tea,” said Tea Team founder Valerie Diderichs.
The Brand Radar: Exploring the creative thinking behind licensed theme park attractions
Inspired by this year’s Theme Park of the Year finalists, Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how brands are collaborating with park sites to create impactful, authentic attractions.
Doodlebug Design’s Maria Thomas on style guides, social media and Minions spaghetti
Maria Thomas, Director at Doodlebug Design, discusses the key to designing a great style guide.
The Brand Radar: Kylie Minogue prosecco rosé, Benchmark Drinks and how brands thrive in booze
Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how brands can thrive in the alcohol space – and why booze brands themselves are soaring in areas like snacks, fashion and accessories.
The Brand Radar: Radley, Royal Ascot and tapping into opportunities around unique events
Start Licensing’s Ian Downes shines a spotlight on the licensing programme around Royal Ascot, which boasts partners including L.K.Bennett, Radley and Charbonnel et Walker.
Geeky Jerseys’ Sean Damien on celebrating fandom through pop culture-inspired hockey jerseys
The Geeky Jerseys team discuss design, passion and their ‘for geeks, by geeks’ mantra.
Talking Brands: McDonald’s footwear, KFC handbags, Taco Bell luggage… Is this a heyday for fast-food brand extensions?
The Opinionated Designer’s Emma Horton, Pink Key Licensing’s Richard Pink and Start Licensing’s Ian Downes share their thoughts on the potential of fast-food brands.