Informa Markets’ Global Licensing Group is launching a new event for UK retailers – Licensing for Retail – in partnership with industry trade association Licensing International.

The inaugural Licensing for Retail conference, ‘Planning for the Future,’ will take place at Convene, London, on 19 April 2023. A limited number of free tickets are available to vetted retailers. Non-retailers (licensees, licensors, brand owners, agents and service providers) can purchase tickets. Booking is now open online and discounts are available to Licensing International members.

Delegates from Brand Licensing Europe’s Retail Mentoring Programme will also be in attendance in their first event of the year, including delegates from Asda, Claire’s, FatFace, M&Co, HMV, New Look, John Lewis, Very Group, Tesco, and Morrisons.

Commenting is Laura Freedman-Dagg, Global Licensing Group’s Head of Retail

“The Licensing for Retail programme has been designed 100% with retailers’ objectives in mind. By providing through-the-year content in addition to the Retail Mentoring Programme and Brand Licensing Europe (BLE), our goal is to help retailers understand more about how brands and customer fandom can drive their strategy forward. And, as a result, maximise their use of brand partnerships to drive sustainable growth. This is so important right now, given all the challenges retailers are facing.”

Steve Manners, UK MD and Head of Global Marketing at Licensing International, adds; “We’ve been working closely with Informa to find ways to further engage with retailers and create relevant and informative programmes that demonstrate the value of licensing. Licensing for Retail is a natural progression from our previous events, which we are confident will be of significant benefit to retailers, licensees, licensors, and agents.”

The content is designed to deliver practical takeaways that will help retailers navigate the world of branded consumer products

Following four themes throughout the day, highlights will include trend presentations, case studies, and updates on the latest technological advances. A special keynote address will also take place before lunch. The themes are:

• Setting the Scene – The power of brands at retail
• Licensing and You – How brand licensing is so much more than ‘brand slap’
• The Future – How will brands be represented at retail in 5-10 years?
• Coming Together – Licensors, Licensees, and Retailers

There will be opportunities for peer-to-peer networking during the day and at post-event drinks

Licensing for Retail is offering three ‘sponsored sizzle’ slots – the only sponsored content on the agenda – giving sponsors the opportunity for a short brand pitch. There will also be brand exposure opportunities within the venue, including product showcase options. For further information, please email laura.freedmandagg@informa.com.