Debenhams, Matalan, Blue Inc and Card Factory join BLE’s Retail Mentoring Programme as it celebrates fifth year

Launched in 2010, the Retail Mentoring Programme is a unique initiative which gives buyers a wider understanding of the licensing business. Nominated retailers take part in workshops and seminars, including the LIMA Licensing Essentials Course and Spring Fling in May in partnership with LIMA UK, culminating at Brand Licensing Europe in October. Last year over 45 buying professionals took part.

Victoria Colgan, Buyer Toddler Boys at Debenhams, says about the programme: “I feel it will be beneficial as we are seeing strong sales from our licensed product and would like to understand how we can develop better product within quicker timescales. Obviously to coincide with film releases, it’s important to hit the key selling periods. We would also like Assistant Buyers to gain a deeper understanding of the background work which licensors do so they can be empowered to ask appropriate questions.”