March 5, 2013, NEW YORK – The Board of Directors of the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) has selected Bernard Leifer, President and CEO of The SG Companies, for induction into the LIMA Licensing Industry Hall of Fame.  Leifer joins the ranks of other industry pioneers who have made an important and lasting contribution to the growth and prosperity of the worldwide licensing business.  Induction into the Licensing Hall of Fame is the highest honor that LIMA awards to members of the licensing community.

The induction will take place at the annual LIMA Awards Ceremony on June 18, 2013 during the industry’s main event, Licensing Expo 2013, in Las Vegas.

“The Licensing Industry Hall of Fame is comprised of the most highly-respected and accomplished professionals in the business – and Bernie Leifer exemplifies the character and dedication necessary to be placed among them,” said LIMA President Charles Riotto.  “For more than 20 years, Bernie has left an indelible mark both on our organization and the industry as a whole, and we are delighted to honor him with this well-deserved recognition.”

In his illustrious professional career, Leifer has utilized licensing as a driving force and brand-building tool for business expansion and success.  In 1953, The SG Companies (formerly S. Goldberg) was the first to acquire a license in the footwear category and, under Leifer’s stewardship, continues to be an industry leader in the application of licensed brands, with more than 50 in the company’s current portfolio.  In 2006, he added apparel through the formation of the SGI Apparel Group, once again recognizing that licensing would play a critical role in the success of the division.  The division has charted tremendous growth in the past six years and holds licenses for numerous premiere properties.  In addition, Leifer was a visionary in recognizing the impact licensing could have when rooted in cause-related programs.  In 2008, The SG Companies teamed up with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and, to date, has contributed in excess of $100,000 which was attained from a 10% royalty paid on every pair of shoes sold.

Leifer has exhibited an unprecedented commitment to giving back to the licensing community through his more than 20 years of service toLIMA.  He was a dedicated member of the LIMA Board of Directors for two terms, as well as serving on the Executive Committee and as LIMA Chairman from 2008 to 2010.  In addition, Leifer serves as Chairman of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, working with policymakers inWashington,D.C.in all matters of international trade.

Leifer also supports many causes, both personally and through The SG Companies, including LIMA charities of choice – Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation and The Hole in the Wall Gang – along with the Two Ten Foundation and Habitat for Humanity, and serves on the Board of Governors of Hackensack University Medical Center.

Candidates for the LIMA Licensing Hall of Fame are judged based on their impact within the industry as well as their overall integrity and legacy.  Nominees must have been actively involved in the licensing business for a minimum of ten years, demonstrating continual and outstanding contributions.

About LIMA
Founded in 1985, the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) is the primary trade organization for the worldwide licensing industry.  LIMA’s mission is to bring together all segments of the industry for the advancement of professionalism in licensing through research, national and international seminars, trade events and publications.  With members in 35 countries, offices in New York, London, Munich, Tokyo, and Hong Kong, and representatives in Australia, Iberia, India, Italy, Korea, and Turkey, members enjoy access to a wide variety of activities, resources and benefits.  For more information on LIMA sponsored trade shows, educational programming, networking opportunities and more, please visit www.licensing.org.  To learn more about LIMANET, the most complete network of Property Information and Licensing Professionals online, please visit www.limanet.com.

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