100 retailer places available on free 2026 brand licensing course
UK retailers can now apply for one of 100 places on a free brand licensing course. Organised by Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) and now in its 15th year, the Retail Mentoring Programme (RMP) is a 6-month, CPD-accredited course that educates retailers on the who, how and why of the $369.6 billion brand licensing industry.
RMP alumni include Tesco, Morrisons, Selfridges, Sainsbury’s, M&S, John Lewis & Partners, Asda, Character.com, The Very Group, Halfords and Ann Summers.
A John Lewis & Partners buying assistant who participated said: “The programme provided me with a well-rounded introduction to licensing from different angles. I have found it extremely beneficial to my buying role as it gave me a good understanding of both sides of licensing for retail, giving me the confidence and knowledge to have influential and meaningful conversations with my own suppliers.”
The course runs between March and September 2026 and culminates at BLE, Europe’s leading business event for the industry, where delegates can meet hundreds of brand owners and agents keen to present thousands of license-ready brands to retail. RMP members are given VIP access to the event and concierge support to help book brand meetings .
Subscribe to TRBThe programme also includes:
- A personal introduction tailored to each retailer’s knowledge level, job function and category
- Tickets to Licensing for Retail Conference – 16 April 2026
- Tickets to Licensing for Retail Seminar and Workshop – September 2026
- A day spent with a leading brand or agent. This year, they included The FA, SEGA, Hasbro, Warner Bros, Bravado, Royal Museums Greenwich and more.
- Multiple networking opportunities
- Guided online learning with Licensing Unlocked
- Membership to trade body Licensing International
Interested retailers should apply online. The application process will close at the end of January 2026 or when all 100 places are full, whichever is the earlier. To be accepted onto the programme delegates must work for an established retail business with the capability to enter into partnerships with major brands. BLE 2025 takes place 7-9 October at Excel London.
