The Hong Kong International Licensing Show (HKILS) and Asian Licensing Conference (ALC) were held at the HKCEC from 27th to 29th April.

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) hosted both lifestyle and licensing events in April, gathering global trend-setting creative products and services, and helping the industry seize business opportunities.

Following the successful conclusion of Home InStyle and Fashion InStyle, the Hong Kong International Licensing Show (HKILS) and Asian Licensing Conference (ALC) were also held at the HKCEC from 27th to 29th April.

Hong Kong International Licensing Show attracted over 320 exhibitors and showcased an extensive array of more than 550 brands and licensing projects. These activities have created global business opportunities across industries and disciplines, consolidating Hong Kong’s role as a leading IP trading centre.

Sophia Chong, deputy executive director of the HKTDC, said: “Over the years, the HKTDC has been committed to promoting Hong Kong as the regional creative hub through exhibitions, conferences and diversified activities, helping local creative industries to go global.”

She added: “The Licensing Show invited renowned museums to display their art IP licensing, as well as international brands to showcase their creative designs and IPs.”

Plastic Thing, founded by Yan Ip in 2013 and well known for its character, Fatty, exhibited for the first time. Director of Plastic Thing, Yip Kim Kwan, together with representatives of rising Asian IPs, spoke at the Licensing Academy sessions to discuss strategies for unlocking opportunities through licensing, and the major challenges they face along the way.

The Design Licensing and Business Support Scheme and the Hong Kong Pavilion returned to the event, to promote the latest creative designs of 45 local brands.

Sophia Chong added that the HKTDC is dedicated to promoting sustainable development in the business sector through its diversified support services and online-to-offline sourcing platforms, assisting the industry to promote and procure green products and solutions.

More information othe event can be found here.

Matchbox has unveiled the Matchbox Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology die-cast car, made with recycled metal and ISCC-certified plastic.

Mattel has announced the Matchbox Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology die-cast car. The new die-cast vehicle was created to celebrate the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and the recent reveal of its all-new electric model. Matchbox has unveiled that the realistic and highly detailed model which features recycled metal and a minimum of 81% ISCC-certified plastic, highlighting how Matchbox is evolving its product offerings.

The Matchbox exclusive 1:64th scale replica die-cast features true to life details that embody the spirit of the G-Class. The Mercedes-Benz G 580 comes in a Manufaktur south seas blue magno, with black interior. It’s made with 99.5% recycled metal, features one-of-a-kind packaging with textured paper and a base that attaches to the lid for a unique home display for car enthusiasts and collectors to enjoy. Matchbox has stayed true to its commitment to using more sustainable materials, while also providing fans with premium materials that feel authentic to the Mercedes-Benz all-new electric G-Class.

“We’re thrilled to be celebrating an iconic brand like Mercedes-Benz, which has continued to break boundaries in the electric vehicle space, culminating in this momentous release of the first Mercedes-Benz all-new electric G-Class,” said Roberto Stanichi, global head of Vehicles at Mattel. “We can’t think of a better way to mark the occasion than with the exclusive Matchbox die-cast release. We can drive toward a better future together as we stay committed to using more sustainable materials, while simultaneously bringing fans realistic replicas of their favourite cars.”

The Matchbox Mercedes-Benz all-new G-Class die-cast car expands upon Matchbox’s Driving Toward a Better Future campaign, introduced in 2022. This initiative champions greener play experiences by integrating electric vehicles in its product range, aligning with its goal to achieve 100% recycled, recyclable or bio-based plastics in both toys and packaging by 2030.

“We are very pleased that our all-new Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology, the electric model of our off-road icon, is making its way into the versatile model range of Matchbox cars,” said Michael Knöller, head of the Off-Road Vehicles division and CEO of Mercedes-Benz G GmbH. “We are convinced that it will find its way to many enthusiasts — even outside the G-Fans community.”

Later in the year, the Matchbox Mercedes-Benz all-new electric G-Class die-cast car will also be available in Matchbox’s Moving Parts Series, which features Manufaktur classic grey non-metallic and movable doors that provide added authenticity, realism and drive storytelling. All Moving Parts vehicles are made using recycled metal and a minimum of 51% ISCC-certified plastic.

The Matchbox Mercedes-Benz all-new electric G-Class premium version will be available in limited quantities exclusively at www.mattelcreations.com for £30 RRP on 30th April. The Matchbox Mercedes-Benz all-new electric G-Class die-cast Moving Parts Series will be available at UK retailers nationwide this fall for £4.29.

Click here to learn more about Mattel’s sustainability goals or visit Matchbox to learn more about the brand’s sustainable efforts and products.

Sambro International has announced a new SpongeBob SquarePants collection in partnership with Paramount Consumer Products.

Sambro‘s new contract partnership with long-standing licensor, Paramount Consumer Products, will deliver a range of plush and novelty collectibles for Nickelodeon’s pop culture phenomenon SpongeBob SquarePants.

Product will be released in time for the 25th anniversary of the franchise, and Sambro will launch an initial portfolio of seven product lines across key UK and EU retailers such as B&M, AS Watson, Very and Forbidden Planet. These include: Puzzle Palz collectible 3D erasers, Squelchums novelty toys, 8cm and 30cm collectible plush characters (including a 25-year celebration plush), Paint your Own characters and a Pop Up game.

The celebratory range will include a selection of 30cm plush characters from the animated series, including SpongeBob himself, Squidward, Patrick and Gary, with further SpongeBob glitter plush completing the collection.

As part of Sambro’s sustainability commitments, all filling in its plush products is from 100% recycled polyester stuffing, allowing it to gain full accreditation with global recycling standards. The packaging labels will also be FSC certified, further meeting Sambro’s ESG goals.

Sambro’s own IP Puzzle Palz range encourages kids to build, play and erase by collecting fun character themed puzzle erasers. With eight SpongeBob SquarePants character styles to collect, the 3D erasers are available in capsule and card packaging options in a CDU with an RRP of £1.99 and further, larger pack formats. In the squishy, spongy textured Squelchums collection, each of the four collectible characters containins different fun textures.

Clare Rix, Brand and Licensing director at Sambro, commented: “SpongeBob SquarePants is loved by so many, and we’re thrilled to be launching a brand-new range of products just in time for its 25th anniversary, for children and adult superfans alike. We’re confident that the products will be a success, not only further expanding but complementing our plush and own-brand novelty categories.”

Rebecca Jenkins, VP, Consumer Products, Paramount, added: “Sambro has done a fantastic job in bringing our beloved SpongeBob to life through on-trend product ranges that will be sure to surprise and delight fans. Product will land at retailers across the UK and Europe from September in time to join our wider, exciting 25th anniversary celebrations.”

To find out more about Sambro’s SpongeBob SquarePants range with Paramount visit www.sambro.com

Robert Marick, former head of MGM Consumer Products, says M²G Marick Management is focused on expanding global brand reach via category innovation.

Veteran licensing executive Robert Marick has announced the launch of M²G: Marick Management Group, which will focus on delivering outside-the-box product expansion strategies for global brands looking to scale their IP in unique and creative ways.

Robert, who most recently served as head of MGM Consumer Products, will lead a team that specialises in infusing product innovation and creativity into every aspect of their work, particularly in strategy and business planning, brand management, entertainment licensing, marketing & sales, and product category development.

For those interested in learning more about the new consultancy, Robert Marick will be at the Las Vegas Licensing Expo from 21st-23rd May.

M²G: Marick Management Group offers a comprehensive suite of services such as brand building and the support of business expansion across multiple areas including consumer products, interactive games, licensing media and advertising, and location-based entertainment. The company will tailor its services to the needs of each client, focusing on the client’s specific goals for scaling its brands.

Robert Marick, who serves as principal of the company, said: “I’ve had the opportunity throughout my career to work with a number of global companies across multiple lines of business, on evolving their portfolios of IP in ways that connected with the cultural zeitgeist and introducing iconic properties to new generations of consumers. I’m looking forward to utilising my experience in this new endeavour, to help brands create imaginative and successful product strategies that will enable them to achieve their goals.”

Robert Marick is a seasoned global executive with a track record of success specialising in streamlining global business operations. His extensive expertise spans key functions such as brand management, product development, marketing, sales, creative, finance, and business development.

In addition, Robert has also collaborated with global partners in regions including Asia, LATAM, Europe and the GCC. With a proven history of accomplishments, Robert has contributed significantly to Fortune 500 companies including Amazon MGM Studios, Discovery, Disney, Fox Entertainment and Mattel.

To learn more about M²G: Marick Management Group, visit marickmanagementgroup.com and to set an appointment with Robert Marick at Licensing Expo, email robert@marickconsulting.com.

The Flower Fairies Afternoon Tea has launched at Grosvenor House London in partnership with Penguin Ventures.

The Flower Fairies will come to life through a botanically inspired afternoon tea at JW Marriott Grosvenor House London.

The Afternoon Tea is developed under licence from Penguin Ventures on behalf of Frederick Warne & Co., publisher and brand owner of the Flower Fairies and an imprint of Penguin Random House Children’s. The original books have been translated into 20 languages and have sold over 7m copies worldwide. Taking inspiration from the Penguin Ventures archive of 170 original illustrations by Cicely Mary Barker, there will be five pastries and an amuse bouche masterfully created by head pastry chef Anthony Hurst.

Thomas Merrington, creative director at Penguin Ventures, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering once again with Grosvenor House London on a brand-new afternoon tea offering inspired by the Flower Fairies. The Grosvenor team has really excelled themselves in creating something truly spectacular by transforming the works of Cicely Mary Barker into three-dimensional form with these delicious and intricate pastries.”

Stuart Bowery, general manager, JW Marriott Grosvenor House London, said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Penguin Ventures and bring the Flower Fairies to life at Grosvenor House through an Afternoon Tea, which is inspired by the original drawings of Cicely Mary Barker and pays homage to the enchanting world of fairies and folklore she created over 100 years ago.”

Pastries inspired by the Flower Fairies are captured in watercolour form through a bespoke illustrative menu which will be offered to guests as a keepsake. In addition, the Park Room will transform into a wild fairy garden adorned with fresh, seasonal flowers, designed exclusively by the English Potted Plant Company. The wild garden features bespoke fairy costumes, created exclusively by world-renowned designer Vin Burnham, and loaned by the Penguin Ventures archive.

The Flower Fairies Afternoon Tea will be served daily in The Park Room from 13th May 2024 until mid-November 2024. Served between 1.00 pm and 6.00 pm from £70 per person, or £83 with a glass of Champagne.

To book the Flower Fairies Afternoon Tea, visit the Park Room website or to purchase a voucher, visit the vouchers page.

Hasbro has partnered with Warner Bros. Discovery and Disney to release two new versions of the Monopoly board game, including a Disney Stitch edition and a House of the Dragon edition.

Hasbro has announced two brand-new versions of the Monopoly board game. House of the Dragon Edition, in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products and Disney Stitch Edition – on the heels of the forthcoming second season of the HBO Original drama series House of the Dragon, set to premiere Sunday, 16th June, and the highly-anticipated Disney movie release.

Monopoly players and fans can choose their unique tokens and be fully immersed in the world of House of the Dragon and Lilo & Stitch. They can then travel around the themed boards, trying to claim as many properties as possible.

In the Monopoly: Disney Stitch Edition, properties are replaced by Stitch’s favorite activities, such as Hula Show and Chillax, and beach rentals. Each player chooses a unique Stitch token, then they move around the board, trying to claim as many activities and beach rentals as possible. The more players claim, the more thrilling their day with Stitch will be, and the more rent they’ll be able to collect from other players. Players can get a colour set to add beach huts and lighthouses and charge even more rent. They can also draw 626 and Ohana cards for game-changing actions. This strategy board game is great for family time, and makes an ideal gift for kids aged 8+.

In the Monopoly: House of the Dragon Edition game, a civil war is raging to claim the most powerful seat in the Seven Kingdoms. Players can pledge loyalty to a house by choosing one of six themed golden tokens, then move around the board to travel through Westeros and across the Narrow Sea to Essos and take control of strongholds, lands and bays. The more the player owns, the more rent they can collect from opponents. The last player with coins when all others have lost theirs wins. This strategy board game’s board, packaging, tokens, money, cards and game pieces are all inspired by the popular TV series. The game is designed for consumers aged 17+ and makes a perfect gift for fans of Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon.

The new range of licensed timepieces from Airfix and AVI-8 pays homage to iconic planes including the Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire. 

Bringing together two entities bound by a passion for military aviation and history, Hornby has announced the Airfix x AVI-8 range of timepieces. Each watch in this unique collection serves as a heartfelt tribute to the aircraft that inspired it, honouring the enduring legacy of those who once ruled the skies.

As part of this unique collaboration, five brand-new, special edition timepieces are being released, inspired by the iconic Hawker Hurricane, Supermarine Spitfire and Avro Lancaster. Due for release on 17th May 2024, RRPs start at USD $210/ GBP £210.

“We are thrilled to embark on this exciting collaboration with AVI-8, merging the worlds of precision engineering and aviation history in a collection of timeless and exclusive watches,” said Dale Luckhurst, Airfix head of Brand. “Fuelled by a shared love for iconic aircraft, this partnership combines the Airfix brand’s passion for faithfully creating the real in miniature and attention to detail, while paying tribute to the rich history of military aviation and mechanical marvels that have captured the imagination of hobbyists for generations.”

“We know scale modelling fans will love this unique collection. Together, we look forward to offering collectors and scale modellers alike a unique fusion of artistry and functionality, symbolising the spirit of innovation and nostalgia that defines both brands.”

“We are delighted to be partnering with Airfix and know that we share an enthusiasm and zeal for the world of aviation to create and share products that collectors and enthusiasts alike will come to enjoy,” added Vishal Tolani, director of Solar Time Ltd & AVI-8 Timepieces. “We know that many of our own fans and enthusiasts are avid modellers and that the Airfix brand is one that stands for detail, passion and fun, and we could not be more excited about this partnership.”

Each timepiece seamlessly merges classic AVI-8 styling with a respectful nod to the iconic Airfix logo and branding. The watches come beautifully packaged, reminiscent of the familiar Airfix boxes that house the detailed kits the company is renowned for.

The collaboration will feature a range of samurai-inspired Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vinyl collectibles featuring unique colour schemes, banners, weapons and maedate.

CultureFly has teamed up with Nickelodeon and toy designer Scott Tolleson to create a series of samurai-inspired Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vinyl collectibles. Standing at approximately 11” tall, each of the four soft vinyl TMNT figures features unique colour schemes, banners, weapons and maedate. Each will be available for pre-order for a limited time and in limited quantities.

When designing and creating toys, Scott draws inspiration from many areas, including pop culture, comic books, his family and toys from his childhood. Scott says he aims to elicit a sense of childlike wonder and nostalgia in his artwork and enjoys working in both digital and traditional mediums.

Scott has self-produced numerous designer toys, including Otis and Otto, Tricycle Terror, Doc Von Block and Big Rollin’ Rascal. Since 1998, he has worked for the Walt Disney Company in the Entertainment Productions department where he has designed pieces for various parades, venues and merchandise.

CultureFly create exclusive collectibles, subscription boxes, apparel and accessories for pop-culture fans, aiming to bring together the best parts of pop-culture into a single curated shopping experience.

Random House Children’s Books is releasing an Inside Out collection of titles, including Step into Reading books, ahead of the Inside Out 2 movie release this summer.

Random House Children’s Books is releasing a series of Inside Out books in May, ahead of the Inside Out 2 movie set for release on 14th June. As audiences prepare for the long-awaited sequel to the blockbuster hit, the publishing company is introducing two early readers for children just learning to read, a Little Golden Book and two storybooks following Riley’s adventures.

Changes for Riley is a 24 pages Step 2 Step into Reading book designed for young children aged 4-6.

Riley’s New World is a 32 pages Step 2 Step Reading book designed for children aged 6-8.

Inside Out 2: The Junior Novelization is a 144 pages paperback junior novelisation featuring an 8-page full-colour inserts and is designed for children aged 6-9.

Inside Out 2 Little Golden Book contains 24 pages and is designed for young readers aged 2-5.

Meet the Emotions is a 22 pages board book based on the animated feature film and is designed for Babies and toddlers aged 0-3.

Team Riley is a 24 pages paperback storybook based on the animated feature film and is designed for children aged 3-7.

All six titles will be available on the Random House Children’s Books official website from the 28th May.

Ultimate Guard has announced a gaming accessories licence for Hasbro’s Magic: The Gathering, with art that ties into upcoming product set releases.

Ultimate Guard has announced a licensing agreement with Hasbro and its Wizards of the Coast division for a line of Magic: The Gathering gaming accessories. This enables the integration of art assets from the Magic: The Gathering brand into the product line starting in 2024.

“We are so excited to forge this relationship with the beloved and storied brand of Magic: The Gathering,” said Patrick Hildebrant, CEO of Heo America and general manager of Ultimate Guard. “This amazing opportunity opens the door to a wealth of creative possibilities.”

Beginning in 2024, Ultimate Guard will introduce products featuring officially licensed Magic: The Gathering art that ties into upcoming product set releases.

The first Magic: The Gathering set to be extensively accompanied by products is Bloomburrow. This Standard-legal set, marking the game’s first-ever exploration of the enchanting plane of the same name, is scheduled for release in August 2024. Ultimate Guard will launch a line of Sidewinder 100+ Xenoskin deck boxes featuring the Borderless Field Notes artworks of several Calamity Beasts of Bloomburrow, as well as a line of Zipfolio 360 Xenoskin binders. Further, there will be an Omnihive 1000+ Xenoskin, a sustainable RTE Boulder 100+ and a Play Mat, with a design that revolves around the set’s still secret main storyline.

Ultimate Guard looks forward to expanding and enriching its product range with works of art. “Self-expression is a very important value to us. Our hope is that the community will see a bit of their own passion and personality reflected in these products,” said Patrick. “We can’t wait to show you what we have in store.”