The BrandTrends Group unveiled its findings regarding the licensing market for the year ahead. The research resulted in what BrandTrends believes are the eight most important trends to consider when considering the licensing market in 2025.

In today’s dynamic global landscape, staying attuned to emerging trends is essential for brand success. By embracing these trends, brands can create engaging experiences and capitalize on new growth opportunities.”
— Philipe Guinaudeau, CEO of BrandTrends
  1. Digital Transformation, Metaverse, and Technological Innovation

With the rise of artificial intelligence and all things digital, brands are exploring digital goods, NFTs, virtual reality, and augmented reality.

  1. Sustainability and Ethical Consumption

Consumers have a growing concern for this, therefore brands have a growing demand for eco-friendly products and sustainable practices.

  1. Personalization and Customized Experiences 

Being able to customize an experience is more desirable to consumers than ever before. Whether it is a product or a service, demanding more flexible licensing agreements to meet individual preferences is on the rise. 

  1. Experimental Retail Initiatives

To counter the digital platform all brands are holding space in, retailers are investing in immersive in-store experiences. Licensing agreements help create engaging and interactive spaces, encouraging consumers to visit physical stores. 

  1. E-commerce and Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) Models

Brands are using licenses to enhance their online presence and connect directly with consumers.

  1. Influence of Social Media and Influencer Marketing

Influencers are becoming an essential element of all brands.

  1. Growth of the Video Game and Esports Market

Titles like Roblox and Mario Bros are learning the charge in this growing space. Brands are finding opportunities in character licenses, esports competitions, and game-related merchandise.

  1. Decline of Traditional Superheros and the Rise of Anime/Manga

Brands are increasingly looking at this pattern for new licensing opportunities.

For more information on these trends and more, visit BrandTrends.ai.

About the author

Ellen Slater

Ellen Slater

Ellen Slater is an Assistant Editor at The Toy Insider, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Book. When she is not writing, she enjoys cooking, attempting to try every Mexican restaurant in NYC, and reading celebrity memoirs. Ellen is an alumna of Oklahoma State University, where she studied Multimedia Journalism. Ellen grew up in Dallas, Texas, and currently resides in Brooklyn, New York.

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