The Brand Radar

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how brands like Thomas & Friends, Space Invaders and Shaun the Sheep have successfully been used to support safety campaigns.

Prompted by an article bemoaning the amount of tie-in promotions around The Batman, Start Licensing’s Ian Downes explores this space, with the help of Snowball Effect’s Nikki Beckett, SGLP’s Simon Gresswell and Innovation Design Hub’s Paul Conisbee.

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes speaks to Ian Hopkins, Director at Rocksax, about the blossoming world of band licensing – and what genres of music are best suited to his company’s product areas.

Inspired by a trip to Spring Fair, Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how the legacy of music icons like The Beatles, the Rolling Stones and Amy Winehouse are being preserved through smart brand extensions.

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how exhibitions like Bob Marley: One Love, Amy: Beyond the Stage and Pissarro: Father of Impressionism have the power to fuel exciting brand extensions.

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how Aardman’s recent partnerships with the likes of Royal Mail, P&O and Wild in Art showcase innovation around brand extensions.

With the online word puzzle Wordle soaring in popularity, Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at how Wordle could expand into consumer products and live experiences.

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at MAC’s recent collaboration with Keith Haring and how it highlights the creativity of both art licensing and the cosmetics industry’s attitude to working with brands.

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes shines a spotlight on a partnership between Farrow & Ball and Liberty around a curated paint collection.

Start Licensing’s Ian Downes looks at the world of licensed live events – from farm trails and immersive experiences to exhibitions and interactive escape rooms.