Spring Fair, the UK’s premier home, gift, and fashion trade show, has introduced an exciting new feature for its 2025 edition, the Licensing Lab. Running from February 2-5, 2025, at NEC Birmingham, the Licensing Lab is developed in partnership with Fabacus and Licensing International. It aims to create an exclusive space for the UK’s thriving licensing industry to connect, collaborate, and celebrate innovation.

Designed by Llewelyn-Bowen Design, the Licensing Lab will feature a Networking Lounge equipped with stylish, custom-designed furnishings. This space will serve as a comfortable environment for informal discussions, meetings, and educational sessions, providing a hub for licensors, licensees, and retailers.

Programming will include workshops, panels, and seminars by industry experts, covering key topics such as licensing trends, marketing strategies, and legal guidance. Additionally, interactive displays will showcase product samples, live demos, and trends to engage attendees.

With 61 per cent of the show’s 38,000 visitors expressing interest in licensed products, the Licensing Lab promises to be an impactful addition, supporting knowledge sharing and business growth. It also highlights the UK’s independent retail sector, valued at £66.3 billion and making up 30 per cent of the market, as a crucial audience for the licensing industry.

Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director at Spring Fair, emphasized that the Licensing Lab will enhance the event experience and drive growth within the sector. Steve Manners of Licensing International added that this partnership marks Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary with a commitment to industry evolution, providing education and resources for attendees to elevate their licensing strategies.