The German B2B event returns on June 24–25, 2026, positioning itself as the epicenter for unexpected partnerships. Among the key players, Toei Animation is set to showcase its iconic portfolio at Booth B-04.
In an increasingly dynamic market where consumers crave novelty, the licensing industry has found its growth engine in a powerful catalyst: collaboration. Moving beyond traditional merchandising, the modern landscape thrives on unexpected, cross-category partnerships that blend fashion, entertainment, food, and technology.
Capturing this momentum is BRANDmania, Germany’s leading B2B Speeddating Festival for the licensing and brand partnership industry. Taking place on June 24–25, 2026, in Essen, Germany, the event is widely recognized as the ultimate meeting place for brand creators, licensing professionals, and collaboration masterminds.
The Power of the Unexpected
BRANDmania’s core philosophy is simple yet powerful: it connects brands of all kinds and celebrates the power of collaboration—and the more surprising, the better. By breaking down industry silos, the festival creates an energetic, fast-paced environment designed specifically to spark new ideas, forge unexpected alliances, and unlock exciting commercial opportunities.
Unlike traditional, rigid trade shows, BRANDmania’s “speed-dating” format allows brand owners, agencies, retailers, manufacturers, and business developers to connect efficiently. It optimizes networking time, allowing attendees to pitch, brainstorm, and establish the foundations of future market-disrupting products in high-impact meetings.
Elevating Pop Culture Partnerships
Among the major global players attending this year’s edition, anime powerhouse Toei Animation is gearing up for a highly anticipated presence. Renowned for shaping global pop culture with some of the most influential and enduring franchises in history, the studio is looking to expand its footprint in the European market through fresh, innovative collaborations.
Licensing professionals, retailers, and manufacturers looking to tap into the booming anime and fandom market will find a wealth of opportunities at the Toei Animation hub. Whether exploring apparel, collectibles, digital activations, or experiential marketing, the studio’s iconic properties offer unparalleled brand equity and a fiercely loyal fan base.
Toei Animation invites all attendees, partners, and future collaborators to visit them during the two-day festival at Booth B-04 to discover the latest licensing opportunities, discuss potential partnerships, and co-create the next big success story.
