BLE adds new names to Retail Mentoring Programme Brand Licensing Europe - May 2015

 

 
Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) has confirmed the addition of six new retailers to its Retail Mentoring Programme which launches this month.

Asda, Blackpool Pleasure Beach Limited, Claire’s Accessories UK Limited, Lloyds Pharmacy, Matalan and Stanfords join existing participants J Sainsbury PLC, Boots PLC, Lakeland, Blue Inc and Mothercare Group in the six month programme - the only one of its kind in the UK.

Now in its sixth year, 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 BLE in October. In 2014 over 53 buying professionals took part, a 60% increase on the previous year.

John Carolan, Head of Buying - Childrenswear at Sainsbury’s, who has supported the programme since its launch, said “The Retail Mentoring Programme has been a real help to our buyers in understanding how the licensing world works; but it also gives them an insight into what they need to take forward to be a successful childrenswear buyer.”

Darren Brechin, BLE Event Director, added “We launched the Retail Mentoring Programme back in 2010 to bridge the gap between buying professionals and licensors. Six years on, we are still welcoming new retailers which demonstrates the need for such a unique initiative. Licensing is a multi-billion dollar market with opportunities growing daily, and we’re doing all we can to close that gap.”

Brand Licensing Europe takes place from 13 – 15 October 2015 at London’s Olympia. For more information please visit: www.brandlicensing.eu