Trademark & Brand Licensing

Brand licensing generates $50,000-$5,000,000+ annually from royalties (typically 5-15% of wholesale).

In 2025, strong brands license to manufacturers across categories.

Initial investment $20,000-$150,000 includes trademark registration, brand development, licensing agreements, brand style guides, and marketing materials.

Revenue from licensing royalties (percentage of licensee sales), minimum guarantee payments, license territory fees, and sublicensing income.

Examples: Character brands, lifestyle brands, celebrity brands, heritage brands, designer brands.

Successful licensors have recognizable brand value, target appropriate product categories, negotiate favorable licensing deals, maintain brand quality standards, and build licensing portfolios across categories.

Manufacturers and retailers as licensees.

Marketing through licensing trade shows, licensing agents, brand partnerships, retailer presentations, and licensing industry connections.