Museum Prepares for World War Commemorations

The Imperial War Museum has become the latest organisation to join LIMA UK as it prepares for key anniversaries commemorating the world wars. As a member of LIMA, it will have access to a significant number of benefits such as discounted access to licensing shows, such as BLE 2011, webinars and access to LIMA’s worldwide directory.

2014 is a key anniversary for the Museum – 100 and 75 years respectively since the start of the two world wars. The Imperial War Museum will be leading the national programme of cultural events and commemorations for the First World War centenary and is already attracting licensees keen to sign up. As part of the Museum’s commemorations, Airfix, part of the Hornby group, a current licensee, will be developing a range of dioramas and military vehicles.

The Imperial War Museum’s licensing department is part of a thriving publishing department where the Museum’s expert historians and curators assist authors in ensuring the accuracy of books published in association with the Museum.

Licensing is a vital part of the mission to broaden understanding of the cause, course and consequences of conflict from the First World War to the present day. Recently the programme has seen great growth and is attracting a growing number of licensees – aircraft kits, games, stationery, textiles, collectables, calendars and diaries. It is also well placed to deliver content for apps and interactive computer games. With its 15,000 paintings, drawings and sculptures, 20,000 posters, over 10 million photographs and its large collection of aircraft, armoured fighting vehicles, naval vessels, uniforms, badges and medals, the Museum has appeal across the board.

Elizabeth Bowers, Head of Publishing and Licensing, said: “As part of the strategy to grow the licensing programme for these anniversaries and beyond, the Imperial War Museum felt it was vital to join LIMA and gain access to the expertise of the wider licensing community.”

She adds, “LIMA can offer us unrivalled support and greater visibility both in the UK and abroad. We are also exhibiting for the first time at Brand Licensing Europe in 2011 and the benefits of being a LIMA member are significant.”

Anyone wishing to speak to LIMA about membership should contact Saphia Maxamed, Membership Services Manager on +44 1908 802 863 or by emailing: smaxamed@licensing.org.