Licensing Expo 2026 Promises Biggest Show Yet

Organizers share details on new features, programming, and networking opportunities for attendees.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 7:00pm

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Licensing Expo 2026 is set to be the largest and most diverse edition of the annual trade show yet, with a record number of exhibitors from around the world, including a strong presence from Asia. Organizers Anna Knight, Ella Haynes, and Lily Drennan discussed the new ticketing options, matchmaking tools, and activations that will enhance the attendee experience, as well as the key trends and topics expected to dominate discussions at the show.

Why it matters

Licensing Expo is a critical annual event for the brand licensing industry, bringing together major IP owners, licensors, and licensees to forge new partnerships and discover emerging trends. As the industry continues to evolve, the show's ability to adapt and provide valuable networking and educational opportunities is crucial for businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve.

The details

Some of the key new features for Licensing Expo 2026 include a diverse global exhibitor list spanning all categories, with a strong representation from Asia, as well as improvements to existing activations and features. The show is also introducing new ticketing options, including an "Explorer Pass" focused on educational content and a "Networking Pass" for those looking to maximize their meeting opportunities. Attendees are encouraged to utilize the event's planning tools, like the AI-powered matchmaking and the Event Planner platform, to make the most of their time at the show.

  • Licensing Expo 2026 will take place May 19-21, 2026 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The players

Anna Knight

Vice President of Licensing at Informa Markets, the organizers of Licensing Expo.

Ella Haynes

Event Director for Licensing Expo at Informa Markets.

Lily Drennan

Content Director for Licensing Expo at Informa Markets.

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What they’re saying

“This year, we've introduced new options designed to suit the objectives of our attendees. This includes The Explorer Pass which is specifically designed for attendees, particularly newcomers to the industry or show, looking to supplement their event experience with education.”

— Ella Haynes, Event Director for Licensing Expo

“We encourage everyone to set up their individual profiles on the Event Planner platform. The more information you provide about your likes, business goals and objectives, the better the AI platform can match you with like-minded individuals.”

— Ella Haynes, Event Director for Licensing Expo

“This year, there will likely be conversations about global geopolitical events and how licensing is adjusting to these changes, similar to how tariffs dominated last year's show.”

— Anna Knight, Vice President of Licensing

What’s next

The Opening Night Party at Daylight Beach Club at Mandalay Bay on May 18, 2026 will provide an opportunity for attendees to network and unwind after the first day of the show.

The takeaway

Licensing Expo 2026 is poised to be the biggest and most comprehensive edition of the show yet, offering attendees a wealth of networking, educational, and business opportunities through new features and programming designed to help them make the most of their time at the event.