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Advanstar Communications is celebrating the biggest Brand Licensing event ever, as initial figures reveal a seven per cent* increase in attendance at Brand Licensing Europe, held at London’s Olympia on Tuesday and Wednesday of last week.
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Advanstar also secured a massive 30 per cent* increase in European visitors. This achievement is reflective of the event’s re-brand in 2007 to Brand Licensing Europe, and the organiser’s increased marketing and PR activity designed to make the event more representative of the European licensing market.
A total of 189 exhibitors were on the show floor this year, including Chorion, Disney Consumer Products, Global Brands Group, HIT Entertainment, LEGO Group, Marvel Entertainment, Sony Pictures Entertainment and The Licensing Company. A record 87 exhibitors – a total of 56 per cent - had already rebooked for Brand Licensing Europe 2008 by the close of the show. |
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Bruno Productions, the Dutch creator of Hello Kitty, was a first time exhibitor. Licensing coordinator Marjon Lusink said: “Brand Licensing Europe was absolutely great! It was the first time we exhibited in London and also the first time we presented our new character Angel Cat Sugar to Europe. We had a lot of traffic to our booth and interest from Dubai, Spain, Australia, Italy, United Kingdom, GAS countries, Benelux and India, which was really overwhelming! As first time exhibitors, we didn’t know what to expect but it was definitely a very successful experience.” |
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Janet Woodward, head of licensing at seasoned exhibitor Coolabi, added: “Coolabi had an absolute barnstormer of a show. Congratulations to Advanstar for pulling off what many exhibitors are referring to as the most successful Brand Licensing ever. There was a permanent buzz, even late on Wednesday afternoon, and the quality of attendees was excellent."
Helen Gardner, managing director of Advanstar Communications, finished: “This year’s event was absolutely fantastic for our exhibitors and visitors alike. There was a tangible feeling of excitement buzzing through the hall as thousands of industry professionals met, new properties were unveiled and deals were being struck. We were particularly thrilled with the staggering increase in European visitors to the event, testament to the dedicated marketing efforts which have taken place over the past 12 months. We can’t wait for 2008.”
Brand Licensing Europe 2008 takes place on October 1-2 at Olympia’s Grand Hall in London.
Notes to editors:
* Unaudited figures |
