The licensing lab

 

At Spring Fair 2026, we're reintroducing the Licensing Lab – a dedicated space where licensors, agencies, designers and licensees come together to showcase ranges, share insights and make partnerships.

 

REGISTER NOW     BOOK YOUR STAND

Why licensing matters

 

The global licensing industry is worth US $369.6 billion – and it’s growing fast. Buyers are looking for creativity, collaborations, and products connected to the brands and characters consumers love. At Spring Fair, the Licensing Lab connects this world of creativity directly with retail.

Bringing the industry together

The Lab features an exhibition space for businesses to showcase their expertise, a networking lounge for organic meetings, and an education stage hosting thought-leadership seminars led by industry experts.


More than 4,000 buyers at Spring Fair have registered specific interest in licensing – including department store chains, independents, and distributors.

The licensing lab stage

Where brands, creators and innovators unlock the chemistry of partnership. Intellectual property becomes a catalyst for growth, turning ideas into commercial opportunity.

 

What to expect:

  • Strategic partnership sessions connecting brands, creators and licensing professionals
  • Success stories and case studies on licensing-driven innovation
  • Interactive workshops and roundtables with licensing leaders

Who is it for? Retailers, buyers, creatives and licensees exploring partnership potential and new commercial pathways.

Who is the licensing lab for?

Brand Owners & Licensors

Show support to your licensees by visiting their stands throughout the show. See your products being exhibited and arrange meetings with major license buyers

Licensing Agents

Showcase your portfolio with the opportunity for your clients to sell directly to retailers. Meet new artists and designers to grow your roster

Designers & Publishers  

A platform to showcase your creative designs within the licensing world. Connect with potential licensees and demonstrate how your designs translate across products

Manufacturers & IP Owners

Exhibit licensed products - whether you own the IP or have brand collaborations - and take direct orders from retail buyers

60%

of retailers reported that licensing boosted their brand visibility

50%

of major retailer's product sales comes from licensing agreements

£230 bil+

global licensing market value

Be part of the licensing lab

Licensing showcase

Promote your products and services or discover the latest in licensed ranges from across the industry.

Education stage

Attend expert-led sessions on trends, brand partnerships, and strategies that drive results.

 

See seminars

Networking space

The networking space allows you to organically meet and network with the licensing industry.

A look back at our licensing lab

 

At Spring Fair 2025, our Licensing Lab brought together many industry leaders who were happy to share their insights and experience.

In 2026, it returns bigger, bolder, and more connected than ever.

 

Want to be part of the licensing lab?

Enquire about opportunities within the Licensing Lab today.


FAQs

How can my business participate in the Licensing Lab?

There are a few ways to get involved:

  • Exhibit in the Lab: Secure a 1.5m x 2m pod to showcase your business. Prices start at £1,200 + VAT.
  • Host a bespoke event: Opportunities include breakfast briefings, learning lunches, and drinks receptions. Prices start at £3,000 + VAT and include refreshments.
  • Speak at a thought leadership seminar: Share your expertise and insights with the audience.

What topics will the thought leadership seminars cover?

Seminars will cover a range of industry-relevant topics including:

  • Case studies and licensee success stories
  • New and exciting launches from licensors
  • Market insights, industry trends and consumer preferences
  • Data analysis, anti-counterfeiting measures, and marketing strategies

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