About Licensing Expo
Licensing Expo, organized by Informa Markets, has been connecting influential entertainment, character, art, and brand owners for over 40 years. It stands as the world’s premier event for brand licensing, driving the $340.8 billion* global licensing industry.
Key Information:
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When: The event consistently takes place in mid-May, typically spanning three days. For 2026, Licensing Expo is scheduled from May 19-21.
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Where: Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, serves as the host venue. This modern facility offers extensive exhibit space and amenities for large-scale events.
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Why Exhibit: Licensing Expo is where the world’s most influential brands converge to discover new partnerships, expand into new categories, and drive future revenue. For Entertainment & Media companies, it’s a critical platform for global brand expansion.
Who Attends Licensing Expo
Understanding the attendee profile is essential for designing an effective booth strategy.
Attendee Insights:
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Demographics: Attendees include a diverse range of professionals, from brand owners and agents to manufacturers, retailers, and distributors seeking new licensing opportunities across various categories like Animation, Gaming, Fashion, and TV/Film.
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Decision-Making Authority: The expo attracts key decision-makers with significant purchasing power and influence over licensing agreements. Many attendees are actively seeking new intellectual properties and partnerships to integrate into their product lines.
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What They’re Looking For: Attendees are looking for innovative brands, compelling content, and strategic partnerships that can drive consumer engagement and market growth. They seek licensable properties across a wide spectrum of consumer product categories.
How to Succeed at Licensing Expo
Successful exhibitors at Licensing Expo share common strategies that maximize their ROI.
💡 Success Strategies:
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Booth Placement: Strategic booth placement near high-traffic areas or key pavilions can significantly increase visibility. Consider proximity to major brand zones or themed areas relevant to your licensing category.
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Engagement: Successful engagement involves interactive displays, compelling demonstrations of licensed products, and dedicated meeting spaces for private discussions. Emphasize how your brand can translate into marketable consumer products.
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Lead Capture: Implement robust lead capture systems that allow for quick data entry and immediate follow-up. Digital solutions integrated with CRM software are highly effective for managing the high volume of interest at this show.
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Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is underestimating the competition for attention; generic booths often get lost. Another is failing to clearly articulate licensing opportunities. Exhibitors should focus on showcasing their brand’s market potential and unique appeal to potential licensees.
Planning Your Exhibit at Mandalay Bay
Mandalay Bay Convention Center is a large, indoor convention facility known for hosting major global events.
Exhibitors at Licensing Expo should plan for:
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Coordinating with the venue’s labor requirements for booth setup and dismantle.
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Adhering to strict move-in and move-out schedules to avoid penalties.
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Ensuring power, internet, and rigging needs are ordered well in advance.
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Navigating the large floor plan and extensive show services.
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How Pure Exhibits Helps
Pure Exhibits helps Licensing Expo exhibitors navigate these logistics with experienced project management. We coordinate directly with Mandalay Bay show services, manage all necessary paperwork, and ensure your exhibit is delivered and installed seamlessly, allowing you to focus on securing valuable licensing deals.
