June 4, 2012 – Globalization is a key theme in the slate of Licensing University™ seminars that will be staged by the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) at Licensing International Expo next month.

The Licensing U. schedule of more than 35 sessions includes information-packed seminars designed to give industry executives insights they need to devise an effective strategy for attaining licensing and branding success in international markets.  Attendees will benefit from the experience of companies already showing success in a range of global markets, including fast-growing and emerging markets in Latin America, Asia and Russia.

These internationally-focused sessions are part of an extensive seminar lineup to be held at the premier annual event of the worldwide licensing industry, Licensing International Expo 2012, June 10-14 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.  Acclaimed businesswoman Kathy Ireland, CEO and Chief Designer of kathy ireland Worldwide®, delivers the keynote address, June 12.  

LIMA’s Licensing U. will help attendees learn the essentials for navigating their way to licensing success around the globe in a range of sessions, including: 

Basics of International Licensing – Tuesday, June 12, 10:30am-12:00pm
This session will provide a detailed look at the basic information that should be at the heart of any international licensing strategy.  The discussion will focus on the seven steps licensors need to consider and address when developing a licensing program for foreign markets such as: trademark registration, legal contracts, translation issues, strategy, awareness, creative assets and the need for a local agent.  Angela Farrugia, Group Managing Director of TLC & Iconix Europe, will moderate the panel to include: Vu Myers, Global Licensing Manager, Jelly Belly Candy Company; Lou Ellman, Founder, RoyaltyZone; and Paul Flett, SVP Global Licensing, Skechers USA, Inc.

Licensing in Latin America: Challenges and Opportunities – Tuesday, June 12, 2:30-4:00pm

This presentation will include a discussion of the opportunities and challenges associated with developing licensing programs in Latin America.  Attendees will learn about the overall market and examine case studies illustrating how companies have introduced licensed products in various Latin American countries.  Patricia Serracin Rickard, Global Licensing Director, Remington Arms, will moderate the panel to include: Elias E. Hoffman, President, Exim Licensing Group; and David Diesendruck, President, Redibra.

How to Tame the Russian Dragon – Wednesday, June 13, 8:30-10:00am

Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) offer exciting licensing opportunities, if approached and handled correctly.  Plus Licens will share with attendees the company’s experiences in Russia and Ukraine, offering the “dos and don’ts” of dealing with licensees in those countries as well as providing insight into how other companies can manage the post-Soviet business culture and achieve success.  The session also will include a discussion of the CIS retail and consumer markets and its social media scene.  Presenter is Paul Tush, Managing Director, Plus Licens Russia.

Licensing in Asia – Wednesday, June 13, 10:30am-12:00pm

The Asian licensing environment includes some of the most significant growth opportunities, as well as a number of the most complex licensing markets anywhere in the world.  This session’s panel of experts and current players will offer a closer look and provide insight into the many facets of the licensing business in Asia, including the hot growth markets of China and India.  Roger Berman, President, Zenworks, will moderate a panel to include: George Williams, Managing Director, LMCA Asia; Neal Rudge, Partner, Pacific Licensing Studio; and Sid Shah, President, The Wild East Group.

To see the complete schedule and register for Licensing University™ sessions taking place leading up to and during Licensing Expo 2012, click here.  Licensing International Expo is produced by Advanstar Communications and sponsored by LIMA.

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, Shanghai and Hong Kong, and representatives in New Europe, India, Italy, Spain and Australia, 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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Alison Grand                                                                 Laura Liebeck
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