An enlarged The Licensing Lab will return to the Spring Fair, demonstrating the power of licensed products.
‘Retailers are looking for creativity, collaborations, and crossover ranges that connect with audiences. That’s why Spring Fair 2026 is growing the Licensing Lab – a central hub uniting retailers, licensors, licensees, designers and agents to explore how creativity drives commercial growth. From The Traitors merch flying off shelves to must-have Liberty collaborations, licensing is everywhere, and it’s shaping what buyers want next,’ says Yvette Marshall, Spring Fair account manager.
Confirmed speakers for the Licensing Lab stage include Andrew Xeni, Fabacus ceo; Michael Ford, Threewise Entertainment ceo and creative director; Emma Lawrence, Emma Lawrence Designs founder; and Helena Mansell-Stopher, Products of Change ceo with further speaker set to be announced.
‘Curated as part of Spring Fair’s new Retail Alchemists creative direction, The Licensing Lab celebrates the growing role of licensing in shaping retail. It brings decision-makers from major retailers, distributors, department stores, and chains, face-to-face with brands opening up powerful new opportunities for partnerships and product placement,’ says Marshall.
‘Licensing has never been more important to the retail sector. The Licensing Lab will create a dynamic space for the industry to come together, share ideas and celebrate the potential of great partnerships. It’s about connecting creativity with commerce and helping brands bring their stories to life in retail.’
