Brand owners who become interested in licensing often ask the question: What kind of ROI can I expect if I invest in a style guide for my licensed brand? The answer lies in understanding the unique nature of licensing and the implications of merchandising consumer products across … Read More
While marketing researchers have recently been discussing the power of visual cues in regard to social media, this isn't new. If anything, it corroborates what psychologist Jerome Bruner of New York University found in studies: people recall 10% of what they hear, 20% of what they read … Read More
It's no secret that kids crave action, and lots of it. The truth is, so do adults. Generations have grown up with comic books and movies that have created pop cult heroes with established back stories that resonate. These are the good guys who take on all … Read More
It’s been very long and difficult couple of years for all of us since the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic. During that time, we, as a global society, have had to endure a magnitude of challenges, from annoying inconveniences to heart-wrenching … Read More
Licensed brands achieve greatness by design. Clear strategy, consistent brand management, implementable tactics, as well as stellar design make superstars among a sea of licensed properties that often fail to live up to expectations. Design is a crucial component of the marketing mix. It represents both art and … Read More
Let’s face it: most of humanity can say that 2020 was one of the most difficult years of our lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of us wince at the mere mention of the number. But, as is the case with almost every crisis that we’ve … Read More
The holy grail for any brand is to become a lifestyle brand. Having legions of fans who identify with your brand on a highly-personal level is truly amazing. When this happens for toy and entertainment brands, massive success typically follows in the form of brand licensing. However, … Read More
Regardless of how successfully a brand performs in the marketplace, there always comes a time when its package design system needs to be refreshed. Even if its design and standardization have been well-maintained by its brand owner, it may simply become outdated over time – not only … Read More
I’ve been in the toy industry for a very long time. So long, in fact, that I’m often referred to by my colleagues as an old-school industry guy. A term of endearment, for sure. But, hearing it does make me think back to the early days of … Read More
Experiential marketing is a tactic used by brands to appeal to consumers' senses to engage them more meaningfully. Experiential branding goes much deeper. It's a powerful differentiator, generating excitement and pleasure for consumers that lead to stronger brand preferences, purchases and loyalty. Entertainment brands are experiential by their … Read More
If you want to engage the Design Force team and put more than three decades of expertise to work for your brand...