October 1, 2009
UW royalties top $1 million; top licensees recognized
The UW announced recently that its annual trademarks and licensing royalties surpassed $1 million for just the second time in the history of the institution’s licensing program and the first time in over a decade. Final royalty revenues tallied $1.041 million, representing an increase of 7 percent over the 2007-08 year.
The UW started its trademarks and licensing program in 1981. Since its inception, the program has generated over $13 million in revenue that has been used to fund operations for a variety of University activities and programs, including athletics.
The UW’s royalties have typically followed the success of the Husky football program, with the program recording its highest year ever at $1,105,012, following the Huskies’ 1991 national championship year.
“The huge support from our retail partners and licensees allowed the UW to achieve the $1 million milestone during a period in which many institutions are experiencing stalled or declining royalties,” says Kathy Hoggan, director, UW Trademarks & Licensing. “Most of all, this success is solid evidence that UW alumni and fans take to heart their commitment that Real Dawgs Wear Purple.”
Since 1999, Washington has worked with the Collegiate Licensing Company, the nation’s largest licensing agency, representing more than 200 institutions. Washington was one of 34 institutions in the consortium that topped the $1 million mark. Washington’s annual royalties have now increased in seven of the last eight years, including the last five consecutive years.
“UW’s licensing program continued its winning ways and has reached the elite $1 million level,” said Derek Eiler, senior vice president and managing director of the Collegiate Licensing Company. “The great support from UW licensees and retailers in the local and regional market, the continued stream of unique new products from licensees, and the loyalty of UW alumni and fans were all factors that helped UW have a successful year.”
The UW also announced its licensee awards for 2008-09. The “Dawg Star,” awarded to the top new licensee, went to the Victoria’s Secret PINK program. The PINK Collegiate Collection from Victoria’s Secret features UW merchandise co-branded with the popular PINK brand on women’s apparel and accessories. The PINK program generated over $45,000 in licensing revenues for UW.
The “Hot Dawg” award for the biggest increase over last year was awarded to two licensees — Jones & Mitchell and Portland-based Columbia.
Wild West Shirt Works received the “Top Dawg” award for the leading local licensee.
Nike and EA Sports were recognized with the “Leader of the Pack” awards as the top apparel and non-apparel licensees with revenues over $100,000. Champion and Tchotchke’s received “Leader of the Pack” awards in the $100,000 and under category.
