BLE 2023 welcomed record numbers of retailers – and enjoyed a healthy jump in total visitors on 2022’s show. Claire Potter, Ian Downes, Richard Pink and Clare Piggott discuss what this means for their businesses – and where future growth lies…

“By uniting these two iconic brands, we’ve once again pushed the boundaries of boot design to create something truly unique,” said Nick Craggs, General Manager and Senior Vice President at adidas Football.

“YouTube is the ideal stage to bring everyone’s favourite Smashlings to life and connect with the younger digital generation,” said Mellany Welsh, VP of Nelvana Enterprises & Kids Can Press.

“Our strategy on the licensing side was to lean into what fans wanted – really authentic product with a genuine connection to the game,” said Fée Heyer, Head of Global Licensing & Partnerships at Devolver Digital.

“We couldn‘t be happier to add this park as another meaningful way for families to create lifelong memories with Peppa and her friends,” said Matt Proulx, VP of Global Experiences, Partnerships and Music at Hasbro.

“We’ve got a lot more collectibles planned for launch during the first half of 2024, including classic vehicles from other shows,” said Anderson Entertainment MD Jamie Anderson.

As we preview a brand-new card from the upcoming Disney Lorcana: Rise of the Floodborn, artist Matthew Robert Davies discusses illustrating for Ravensburger’s acclaimed TCG.

Scares in the spotlight… Industry figures give us their picks for untapped horror brands that boast serious licensing clout – and discuss if horror is now a year-round proposition.

“Creating Monster High versions of these beloved characters is a scream come true,” said Mattel’s Rebecca Shipman.

Leaving a sour taste? Caroline Mickler on the rise and rise of Toxic Waste Sour Candy