The next edition of China Licensing Expo (CLE), Asia’s largest licensing trade show, will take place in Shanghai from 16-18 October 2024. This highly anticipated event promises to showcase the most innovative and exciting developments in the world of brand licensing. Let’s explore some of the key exhibitors and their groundbreaking contributions.
Medialink Group Limited, a leading IP management company in media content distribution and brand licensing, recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with events in Hong Kong and Japan. Founded by Ms. Lovinia Chiu in 1994, Medialink initially focused on program distribution and evolved into brand licensing across Asia. The Group was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in May 2019 and announced a five-year development plan with seven key strategies, achieving significant goals in content distribution and brand licensing.
Looking ahead, Medialink aims to enhance its content resources, expanding the Ani-One® animation channel and launching YouTube channels in new regions such as Indonesia and India. The Group will increase the availability of Chinese animation content and pursue global licensing opportunities in gaming. By leveraging existing strengths and exploring new ventures, Medialink seeks to deliver substantial returns to shareholders and investors.
The Pinkfong Company, known for the Baby Shark phenomenon, opens its first flagship store in Hong Kong on September 14, 2024. Located on the 8th floor of Times Square in Causeway Bay, the store spans over 1,300 square feet and features more than 600 Pinkfong and Baby Shark-branded products, including toys, apparel, and books.
The store also offers a 300 sq ft “Baby Shark Playzone” for children aged 1-6, offering activities like painting and music play. Visitors can enjoy selfie zones with Baby Shark figures and seasonal decorations, along with limited edition merchandise that will rotate seasonally. Gemma Joo, Chief Business Officer, expressed excitement about creating an engaging environment for fans.
According to master licensee Alfilo, in the post-pandemic era, brands and consumers are emphasizing sustainable development and emotional value. The company is expanding its museum licensing efforts and beyond, aligning with societal trends. In May 2024, Alfilo’s Realm of Extremes collaboration with Narwhal Ocean Research Center and Erdos 1980 won Best Sustainability Initiative at the Licensing International Excellence Awards, the first Chinese local IP to do so.
Alfilo partnered with Duoyunxuan for the East Meets West project, the fifth local cultural IP signed since 2023, aiming to create a national trend IP with elevated aesthetic and cultural significance. Alfilo is leading the creation of a digital, cultural, and artistic composite space, with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston‘s first immersive exhibition in China inaugurated at MU Art Space in Shanghai, featuring a café and retail store to establish emotional connections with brands and consumers.
Licensing Magazine has established a special partnership with the China Licensing Expo (CLE). Visit us next week at our stand E1H01 to discover our first Chinese edition. For any inquiries or to arrange a meeting, please write to rossella.arena@brands-media.com.
Read the part two of the China Licensing Expo – Unlocking the future of brand partnerships.
Curated by Rossella Arena
