Licensing Expo 2026 Pivots to Sustainability, Inclusivity as Core Growth Drivers — Informa PLC (Global Licensing Group)

Event summary

Licensing Expo 2026 (May 19-21, Las Vegas) will spotlight sustainability, inclusivity, and social good as key drivers of innovation and growth.
Products of Change (POC) and Global Licensing Group will showcase sustainable solutions from brands like Disney Consumer Products and Organic Sound.
The POC Partner Maturity Index will launch, providing a framework for measuring sustainability progress in the licensing ecosystem.
Licensing Expo 2026 will feature sessions on inclusive design, with panelists including Shaquem Griffin and Mindy Scheier.
The event will partner with Delivering Good to donate unused exhibitor products to local Las Vegas families in need.

The big picture

Licensing Expo 2026 reflects a broader industry shift toward sustainability and inclusivity as non-negotiable components of brand strategy. With consumer demand for eco-friendly and adaptive products rising, the event’s focus on these themes positions it as a barometer for how licensing can drive meaningful change. The $369+ billion global brand licensing industry is increasingly aligning with ESG principles, making this pivot both strategic and necessary for long-term growth.

What we're watching

Sustainability Adoption: How the POC Partner Maturity Index will influence sustainability reporting and collaboration across the licensing industry.
Inclusive Design Growth: Whether the adaptive clothing market can maintain its rapid expansion, given its $17.51 billion valuation in 2025.
Social Impact Metrics: The pace at which Licensing Expo’s social good initiatives scale, following the 1-ton donation impact in 2025.