Ian Hart

London

Senior Digital Editor at License Global

Big passion for football and fan of many other sports. Digital Editor of @LicenseMag. Aston Villa fan. Views are my own.

Articles

IO Interactive Drops James Bond Video Game Title and Trailer

2 days ago | licenseglobal.com | Ian Hart

Ian Hart, Senior Digital Editor U.K. & EMEAJune 5, 2025"007 First Light" announcementPlayStationIO Interactive, the Danish video game studio behind the “Hitman” series, has unveiled “007 First Light,” the first major James Bond game in more than 10 years. The first trailer for the upcoming action-adventure, officially licensed by Amazon MGM Studios, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and Eon Productions, dropped this week and tells an original James Bond origin story, not based on any specific film.
How Spin Master Is Licensing Out Its Worlds of Play

2 weeks ago | licenseglobal.com | Ian Hart

Ian Hart, Senior Digital Editor U.K. & EMEAMay 23, 2025“Unicorn Acadamy” plushSpin MasterSpin Master, the children’s entertainment company focused on creating exceptional play experiences, is split into three creative centers: toys, entertainment and digital games. The second center – entertainment – is headed by Jennifer Dodge, president, entertainment and consumer products, Spin Master.
30 Years of Smiles

2 weeks ago | licenseglobal.com | Ian Hart

Ian Hart, Senior Digital Editor U.K. & EMEAMay 23, 2025adidas Originals x SmileyWorld collectionThe Smiley CompanyThe Smiley Company has spread positivity and shaped culture for over 50 years, evolving from a single icon into a global brand focused on emotion, creativity and storytelling. In 2022, it marked its 50th anniversary with a worldwide campaign featuring over 60 brand collaborations, street art, and pop-up activations.
Trends from Licensing Expo 2025

2 weeks ago | licenseglobal.com | Amanda Cioletti |Ben Roberts |Ian Hart

License Global captures the key licensing trends, including tariffs, nostalgic brand revivals, F&B growth and wellness opportunities transforming the industry at Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas.
Craniacs Makes Debut at Licensing Expo

2 weeks ago | licenseglobal.com | McKenna Morgan |Ian Hart

License Global catches up with Ira Friedman, chief executive officer, Ira Friedman Enterprises, to learn about his brainchild IP. Ira Friedman Enterprises is at Licensing Expo with its debut property, Craniacs. Craniacs, a collaboration with Garbage Pail Kids artist Joe Simko, is a trading card series and comic book property. First time exhibitor at Licensing Expo in Las Vegas, Ira Friedman Enterprises shines a light on the arrival of Craniacs and the plans for growth.
Xavie Agency on its Modern Approach to Managing Legendary Estates

3 weeks ago | licenseglobal.com | Ian Hart

Ian Hart, Senior Digital Editor U.K. & EMEAMay 16, 2025Jerry Garcia PosterXavie AgencyLicense Global: What is the Xavie Agenc, and can you talk about some of the clients you represent? Tina Xavie: Xavie Agency is a dynamic, woman-owned firm offering comprehensive intellectual property management and brand development services. Our expertise lies in iconic estate and legacy protection, leveraging astute business strategies and a diverse network of multi-industry partners.
Supercell and WildBrain CPLG Transform Gaming IP Into Global Consumer Powerhouse

3 weeks ago | licenseglobal.com | Ian Hart

Ian Hart, Senior Digital Editor U.K. & EMEAMay 15, 2025'Brawl Stars' x Zara apparel collectionSupercell, WildBrain CPLGIn an era where mobile gaming transcends traditional entertainment boundaries, industry giants Supercell and WildBrain CPLG are crafting a new narrative in consumer products.
How the Licensing Unlocked is Revolutionizing Industry Education

3 weeks ago | licenseglobal.com | Ian Hart

Ian Hart, Senior Digital Editor U.K. & EMEAMay 15, 2025Susan Bolsover, managing director, founder, Lightbulb Licensing, recording her Licensing Unlocked moduleLicensing UnlockedLicensing Unlocked is a comprehensive educational platform which offers both live and on-demand sessions designed to serve industry professionals at all levels. It features eight learning modules covering licensing fundamentals containing over 50 instructional videos from industry experts.
Sony's Major IP Expansion and Streaming Content Trends

3 weeks ago | licenseglobal.com | Ian Hart

Ian Hart, Senior Digital Editor U.K. & EMEAMay 14, 2025Original animated sports comedy, “GOAT”Sony Pictures EntertainmentLicense Global: What trends are you seeing currently in the way that people consume content? Jamie Stevens: One standout trend we see is the growing demand for sports content, which continues to unite fans through a shared sense of community and connection.
Expanding Paddington’s Global Reach

3 weeks ago | licenseglobal.com | Ian Hart

Ian Hart, Senior Digital Editor U.K. & EMEAMay 13, 2025Paddington Bear outside Paddington Retail Store in Paddington Station, LondonSTUDIOCANAL Kids & FamilyThe last time we spoke in depth, ahead of Brand Licensing Europe, STUDIOCANAL was just launching the STUDIOCANAL Kids & Family label. How has that gone over the last six months and what has it meant for the Paddington brand? Françoise Guyonnet: The last six months have been incredibly exciting for us.