The finalists for The Licensing Awards 2026 have been announced, recognizing the products, properties, retailers, and professionals shaping the U.K. licensing industry ahead of the annual awards ceremony Sept. 8 in London.
“A huge congratulations to all of the 2026 finalists — from the 12 young professionals who have been nominated for UK Rising Star through to the evergreen properties in the running for the Classic Licensed Property award,” says Ian Hyder, CEO at Max Publishing, owner and organizer of The Licensing Awards.
This year’s program drew more than 5,000 product entries across 12 product categories, with retail buyers from companies including Asda, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Primark, Selfridges, Smyths, Tesco, Waterstones, and The Entertainer helping determine the finalists. Additional industry validation panels selected finalists across the remaining award categories.
“The overwhelming amount of entries has led to a shortlist which reflects the success, trends, innovation, joy, passion, and creativity of the U.K. licensing business,” Hyder adds. “We can’t wait to celebrate with you all.”
The toy and game categories include nominees from companies across the industry. The Best Licensed Toys or Games Range finalists include offerings from LEGO, Basic Fun!, Jazwares, Spin Master, Mattel, Funko, Merchant Ambassador, Rainbow Designs, Character Options, RealFX by WOW! Stuff, Jakks Pacific, and Ginger Fox Games.
Licensed toy brands and products also appear throughout the apparel, publishing, home goods, promotions, and innovation categories, highlighting the continued growth of entertainment and character licensing across consumer products. Finalists represent properties ranging from Bluey, Care Bears, Harry Potter, and Minecraft to KPop Demon Hunters, Toy Story 5, Stranger Things, and Formula 1.
Property awards recognize the year’s strongest licensed brands across preschool, children’s, teen and adult, gaming, film, music, sports, and classic property categories, while additional honors spotlight retailers, live events, promotions, sustainability initiatives, and emerging industry talent.
The Licensing Awards 2026 will be held Sept. 8 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London. Tickets are available online at max-subscriptions.net/tickets.
