Valuable insights into international licensing, brand extension and environmental compliance

The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA), the trade association for the worldwide licensing industry, has announced details of its 2012 Spring webinar programme. The first session, on 8 February, will look at how companies can use special entertainment platforms (such as shows, theme parks and children’s museums) to build their brands. The webinars form part of LIMA’s mission to inform and educate companies about different aspects of licensing and it is encouraging UK companies in particular to try them out – and to let LIMA know what topics they would like to see.

Kelvyn Gardner, Managing Director of LIMA UK, says, “LIMA webinars are an excellent way for licensors and licensees to get the very latest thinking on current topics within licensing. The content is suitable for UK as well as US participants and the sessions are also very interactive. We would also like to speak to anyone who would be interested in putting themselves forward as a speaker for the summer programme.”

The programme:

• 8th February (5pm GMT):
  Using Shows, Theme Parks and Museums to build an Entertainment Brand”. Speaker: Jonathan Flom, founder of Character Arts. What opportunities are available, what’s right for your brand and how these deals are put together.
  
• 22 February (5pm GMT):
  “Successful retail strategies for lasting beyond the economic downturn”. Speakers: Todd Donaldson, IMC, Mike Slusar, Brandar Consulting. Using licensing and other methods to create innovative direct-to-retail exclusives.
  
• 7 March (5pm GMT):
  “Licensing a Brand in the International Market”. Speakers: Matthew Young, Electrolux, Pamela Deese, Arent Fox LLP. Including market characteristics, common mistakes, selecting a partner and distribution/financial challenges.
  
• 21 March (4pm GMT):
  Introducing the “Guide to Complying with Licensors' Social and Environmental Requirements”. Answers the most common questions on key topics from the “Good Practices” Guide, produced by LIMA, BSR and the Licensing Working Group. Moderated by Cody Cisco, Manager, Advisory Services, BSR, along with members of the Licensing Working Group.
  
• 4 April (4pm GMT):
  “Ingredients for Brand Extension Success”. Speakers: John Parham and Dr Edward M. Tauber, Parham Santana. Which categories and what brand qualities are vital for success?
  
• 18 April (4pm GMT):
  “Insights on the U.S. children’s market”. Kathleen Cella, Director of NPD’s Kids Industry Data Service (KIDS) offers perspectives on the market.

LIMA Webinars are free to current members, or $99 for non-members.

For pre-bookings or questions please log onto the LIMA website at www.licensing.org and register for your chosen webinar.