New York, NY, July 26, 2018 – The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) has released the full findings of its Annual Global Licensing Industry Survey. The fourth annual survey provides in-depth analysis and detailed breakdowns of the US$271.6 billion global licensing industry – representing a 3.3% increase from the previous year, and overall growth for the third consecutive year. The report quantifies worldwide royalty revenue and corresponding retail sales by product category, property type and geographic region. It also covers the latest trends and offers forward-looking analysis and other features that capture the scale of licensing around the world. Topline results from the survey were released during the 2018 Licensing Expo. The report is commissioned by LIMA, the leading trade organization for the global licensing business, and conducted by Brandar Consulting, LLC.

“We are pleased to provide the latest edition of LIMA’s global report on the financial performance of the industry. With detailed analysis of the industry the report provides important data licensing professionals are seeking to support and drive their businesses,” said LIMA President Maura Regan. “The global licensing industry continues to demonstrate year over year growth and our goal is to provide tools to help our members realize even greater success.”  

Character & Entertainment continues to be the top property type, accounting for $121.53 billion in retail sales, a 44.7% share of the market. Corporate Trademarks follow in second place with $55.77 billion in retail sales for a 20.5% share of the total.

Apparel led all product categories with $40.67 billion in revenue, which accounts for 15% of total global licensed retail sales, followed by Toys at $36.12 billion (13.3% share), and Fashion Accessories at $31.04 billion (11.4% share).

In addition, the U.S./Canada remains the largest global region for licensed merchandise, with retail sales growing to $157.66 billion last year garnering a 58% market share. The strongest growth came from North Asia (up 6.2% to $26.05B) from China/HK and Japan, and Latin America (up 7.6% to $10.72B), led by Brazil. Business in the Middle East/Africa region grew at an above average rate of 4.0% with two countries from this region – Nigeria and Egypt – cracking the top 50 for the first time.

The full LIMA Annual Global Licensing Industry Survey is available free to LIMA members and priced at $975 for non-members. Click here for more information and to order a report.