LONDON, June 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

- Sainsbury's and Mothercare confirm participation for second year running

Brand Licensing Europe, the Advanstar organised licensing exhibition, today announces that the hugely successful retail mentoring programme will feature again at this year's show. Retail giants Sainsbury's and Mothercare have confirmed for the second year running.

The programme is designed to help junior and assistant buyers attending the show understand the complexities of the licensing industry and navigate their way around the floor.  Guidance will be given on legal, technical and financial issues, as well as industry terminology and who owns the rights for which brands.  The objective of the programme is to ultimately help retailers make well-informed decisions at the show and ensure they do not miss any relevant opportunities.

John Carolan, Head of Childrenswear Buying at Sainsbury's said: "Sainsbury's is a big supporter of the Retail Mentoring Programme and we look forward to being part of the successful scheme again at this year's show. Brand Licensing Europe provides the perfect environment for the development of junior buyers and our team will be there in force, discovering new brands and retail ranges."

Barbara Robinson, Category Manager, Mothercare said:  "The Retail Mentoring Programme was a huge success at last year's show and Mothercare are thrilled to be participating again. The programme provides crucial support for the next generation of buyers and Brand Licensing Europe gives them the perfect platform to hone their skills."

Brand Licensing Europe 2011 will take place from 18-20 October 2011 at London's Grand Hall, Olympia.

For more information please contact Braben at ble@braben.co.uk or +44-(0)207-025-8021

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.

SOURCE Advanstar Communications Inc.