Ian Downes

“These new licensees dovetail well with some of the key objectives we have, including working with local Oxfordshire businesses and being proactive where possible around sustainability,” said Ian Downes of Start Licensing, the Ashmolean’s licensing agency.

The popular licensing industry Quiz Night takes place on November 23rd at Lord’s Cricket Ground.

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…

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes picks the brains of Richard Pink, Caroline Mickler and Jim White for their suggestions of IP-driven in-store activations.

Jess St. Pierre – Marketing Manager at Carrs Pasties – on wanted to add something new to the market with the firm’s Aardman collaboration.

“It’ll be so lovely to bring everyone together for a summer social to clear the cobwebs, brighten our moods, and facilitate a bit of laid-back networking,” said Licensing International UK MD Steve Manners.

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how relationships between art, design and charities is leading to some exciting opportunities for brands.

With BLE fast approaching, we picked the brains of regular attendees and exhibitors on how to make the most of the show. Up next, we have Start Licensing’s Ian Downes…

Phil King, Managing Director of Trademark Products, discusses great design, niche brands and trend-spotting.

Inspired by a trip to the Exclusively tradeshow, Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how brands can thrive in the homewares sector.