Key Facts:
Licensing industry is worth 385 billion globally. 5.1 billion in Australia ( 2025)
Sales continue to grow at 3.5% annually.
The industry key categories are:- 41% Character and entertainment, 22% Corporate Brand and 16% sport.
The finalists for the 2026 Licensing International ANZ Excellence Awards have been announced following a record year of entries from across Australia and New Zealand.
More than 130 entries were received for this year's Awards, an increase of approximately 20% on 2025, reflecting the continued growth, creativity and commercial strength of the licensing industry across the region.
Following an extensive judging process, 68 finalists have now been selected across the Awards categories.
An independent panel of experienced industry judges carefully assessed each submission against the relevant criteria, including innovation in product, marketing and sales performance.
All judges were required to declare any potential conflicts of interest and abstain from judging any submission where a conflict existed, helping ensure a fair and independent process.
"The calibre of this year's entries reflects just how broad and dynamic licensing has become", says Lisa sweeney, MD ANZ Licensing International.
It is no surprise to see some of the world's most recognisable and culturally relevant properties represented among the finalists, including KPop Demon Hunters, Harry Potter, Hello Kitty and Wicked: For Good, alongside major brands such as AFL, Coca-Cola and Rip Curl.
Together, they demonstrate the extraordinary breadth of licensing today, spanning entertainment, sport, fashion, lifestyle and consumer brands.
"Proud to have supported this great event bringing the Australian licensing industry together. We always learn so much when we share collective knowledge," says Alan Schauder, CEO The Merchantwise Group.
Just as importantly, the finalist field highlights the creativity of the businesses behind these properties, including licensors, agents, licensees, retailers, marketers and creative partners who are bringing brands to life through new products, collaborations, retail activations, campaigns and consumer experiences.
This year's finalists also reflect the strength of the ANZ licensing community and its ability to take both global and local brands and translate them into commercially relevant ideas for consumers across the region.
Being named a finalist is a significant achievement in what has been the most competitive year for the Awards to date.
The winners will be announced at the 2026 Licensing International ANZ Excellence Awards, where the industry will come together to recognise the outstanding people, partnerships, products and campaigns shaping licensing across Australia and New Zealand.
The Licensing International ANZ Excellence Awards form part of Licensing International's global program recognising excellence, innovation and achievement across the licensing industry.
