Licensing Pioneer Beth Schlansky Passes Away At 70
Beth Schlansky, a pioneering figure in the licensing industry, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2024, at Columbia Presbyterian Hospice in New York City due to complications from cancer. She was 70 years old.
Schlansky began her career in Macy’s Executive Training Program, where she honed her skills in the buying office and learned the store line. In 1979, she joined the corporate office of British American Tobacco U.S. (BATUS), where she sourced home goods for major retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Marshall Field’s, Gimbels, and Kohl’s. Her role involved extensive international travel, particularly in Europe and Asia.
In 1986, Schlansky was recruited by Spencer Gifts, where she recognized the growing potential of licensing. She became one of the nation’s first Vice Presidents of Licensing for a retailer and was an early adopter of Direct to Retailer licensing contracts. Her innovative approach led to numerous successful licensing ventures.
Schlansky also contributed significantly to Licensing International (formerly LIMA), the leading trade association for the global brand licensing industry. She served on its Board of Directors, was a LIMA Retail Officer, and became the first Charity Chairperson, where she helped inaugurate the Licensing Industry’s Charity focus, The Hole in The Wall Gang Camp, founded by Paul Newman.
In 2006, she founded her own company, Beth Schlansky, Inc., offering licensing and consulting services to licensors, manufacturers, and retailers. Her expertise facilitated numerous successful licensing deals across various industries.
Schlansky is survived by her husband, George Velasco. She was predeceased by her parents, Morris and Lilian, and her beloved dog, Anna.
Services will be held on Friday, August 2 at 1 p.m. ET at Frank E. Campbell Funeral Chapel, 1076 Madison Ave. New York, NY 10028.
The family has requested no flowers, and asks mourners to consider a donation to the Carl Schurz Park Conservancy where Beth has a bench dedicated to her pups Ana and Myra.
“My garden is a block away and transports me to a world of nature’s beauty!”
— Beth Schlansky
