Behind the Scenes at BLE 2024: Highlights and Insights

Behind the Scenes at BLE 2024: Highlights and Insights

Behind the Scenes at BLE 2024: Highlights and Insights

Brand Licensing Europe 2024 was a blast! From exciting new products to meeting potential partners, the event was packed with energy and inspiration. We walked away with new ideas, fresh contacts, and plenty of excitement for what’s coming next. We caught up with our Sales Team members who attended the event, so read on for our BLE highlights.

What was your favourite moment from BLE 2024?

"Seeing the response from a major retailer to the scope and speed of what we can deliver from our UK manufacturing options."

"Seeing people engage with our products and hearing their feedback was the highlight for me."

"Definitely the chats with potential new licences—exciting things are brewing for next year!"

Which product or collection grabbed the most attention at the event?

"The fashion backpacks definitely grabbed attention. Practical, stylish, and perfect for any fanbase."

"Fuzzy mugs!"

"Our themed drinkware."

What trends did you notice shaping the industry this year?

"Sustainability is big. More people want to know about how things are made."

"Nostalgia is still popular! Everything from 90s cartoons to cult films. If it made you smile back then, it's in demand now."

"Bespoke collaborations are definitely on the rise. Brands want something unique to stand out."

How did attendees respond to our latest licensed merch?

"People responded really well to the new lines. It’s clear our licences resonate with both retailers and consumers."

"Really positive and we have lots of opportunities to follow up."

"Positive feedback across the board. Great to hear we’re hitting the mark with quality."

What surprised you the most about this year’s show?

"The global feel. We met people from everywhere—lots of potential for expansion."

"The character mascots wandering around was a highlight! Who knew you could network with Batman and Mario in the same day?"

"The sustainability of our UK warehouse processes really impressed people, especially after seeing the video we had playing."

Can you share a memorable and/or insightful moment?

"Hearing that our products were a favourite at their shop really validated all the work we’ve put in this year."

"Some great PD ideas had helped by a few post-show beers and it was good to have people from different markets to share them with."

"A distributor gave us some great insights on regional trends—perfect for refining our strategy."

How did BLE help identify fresh areas of growth for our product range?

"BLE highlighted the demand for niche licences. There’s a lot of room to expand."

"New contacts made will deliver that growth. All about connecting the right products with the right retailers."

"We can definitely take our warehouse processes further—people were really impressed by our sustainability efforts."

Lastly, describe your BLE 2024 experience in one word!

"Productive"

"Buzzing"

"Insightful"

Why BLE 2024 Was So Valuable

Brand Licensing Europe 2024 was an invaluable experience for our team, allowing us to showcase our innovations, gain valuable industry insights, and form new partnerships. From meeting global retailers to receiving feedback on our sustainability efforts, BLE opened up exciting growth opportunities. This year’s success has not only prepared us for what’s next but has also set the stage for an even bigger, busier, and more thrilling BLE 2025! We’re excited to bring all these new ideas to life and make next year’s event even better.