LONDON, September 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

- Star Wars™ - 'The Force for Three Generations' with Howard Roffman, President, Lucas Licensing

Brand Licensing Europe 2011, the Advanstar organised licensing exhibition, is pleased to announce the subject of The Big Interview in the 2011 Licensing Academy - Howard Roffman, President of Lucas Licensing and global head of licensing for the Star Wars brand.

One of the most successful licensed properties of all time, Star Wars consumer products have sold a staggering $23bn worth of merchandise over the last three decades. The brand is thrilling and engaging its third generation of fans and consistently ranks with NPD, leading marketing research company, as the top boys' license across Europe. The third-highest-grossing film series in history continues to license the brand in innovative and unique deals across world.

Howard Roffman has been a part of Lucas Licensing for 31 years and there are few people closer to the Star Wars brand and the secrets behind its success. The Big Interview will feature Howard discussing his work with the Star Wars brand, the keys to its longevity and the plans for its future. In addition, he will share his unique insight into what it is like to work with the Force and to unite three generations of fans. 

Howard Roffman, President Lucas Licensing, comments: "Lucasfilm and Star Wars have had a presence at Brand Licensing Europe for many years so it is a pleasure to be invited to take part in the Licensing Academy Big Interview at this year's show.  I look forward to sharing insights about how Star Wars has continued capturing the imagination of generation after generation of fans."

This session is a must-attend and is a rare opportunity to hear Howard Roffman address the European business and licensing community about Star Wars.

Sam Phillips, Content Manager, Brand Licensing Europe 2011, comments: "We are thrilled that Howard, one of the most respected figures in the licensing industry, is to give the Big Interview at what is shaping up to be one of the best Brand Licensing Europe events yet. The insight that Howard will share with the audience will be invaluable and being the first time Lucasfilm has done an event like this makes it extra special."

The Big Interview takes place in the Licensing Academy, 1pm Wednesday 19th October. 

Don't miss out on this unique chance to learn from one of the biggest names in the industry while meeting and doing business at Brand Licensing Europe 2011.

For more information please contact Braben at ble@braben.co.uk or +44-0207-025-8021

Notes to editors:

About Brand Licensing Europe:

Brand Licensing Europe 2011 (http://www.brandlicensing.eu) - taking place October 18 - 20 at Olympia in London is the only pan-European event dedicated to licensing and brand extension. Now in its 13th successful year, Brand Licensing Europe 2010 hosted 236 exhibitors and 5,634 retailers, manufacturers and sales promotion professionals from 63 countries. The event hit mainstream media in 2010, featuring on BBC Breakfast, Sky News, MediaGuardian and more.  

About Advanstar Licensing:

Advanstar Communications Inc. (http://www.advanstar.com), producer of Licensing International Expo, Brand Licensing Central & Eastern Europe and Brand Licensing Europe is a leading worldwide media company providing integrated marketing solutions for the Fashion, Life Sciences and Powersports industries. Advanstar serves business professionals and consumers in these industries with its portfolio of 147 events, 68 publications and directories, 267 electronic products and Web sites, as well as educational and direct marketing products and services. Market leading brands and a commitment to delivering innovative, quality products and services enables Advanstar to "Connect Our Customers With Theirs." Advanstar has approximately 1,000 employees and currently operates from multiple offices in North America and Europe.

About Lucasfilm:

Lucasfilm, STAR WARS™ and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. TM & © Lucasfilm Ltd.  All rights reserved.  All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

SOURCE Advanstar Communications Inc.