Gel Blaster and Evolution USA have entered into a representation agreement where Evolution will assist in the acquisition of AAA intellectual property based on Hollywood studio and core video gaming brands.

“The Gel Blaster team has revolutionized the entire category with patented technology and unique gameplay and now is more excited than ever to add licensed versions to our product mix that will thrill and delight not only the existing Gel Blaster fans but also fans of some of the most incredible gaming and pop culture brands from around the world” says Colin Guinn, chief executive officer, Gel Blaster.

“Gel Blaster is looking to add several major high-profile brands to their product portfolio and will be discussing such opportunities at Licensing Expo,” says Travis J. Rutherford, founder, chief revenue officer, Evolution.

In addition, Black Angus Steakhouse has appointed Evolution USA as its global licensing and brand management agency. Evolution is tapped with developing and managing a retail, direct to consumer and online licensed consumer products program for the Black Angus Steakhouse brand.

Category extensions that preserve the integrity and quality of the Black Angus brand will include: home delivery box services, tableware, cutlery, skillets, branding irons, BBQ grills and smokers, smoking chips, grilling planks, charcoal, BBQ tools, sets and accessories, timers and meat thermometers, drinkware, barware, camping products, tail gating products, aprons, chefs shirts and accessories, cookbooks, headwear and apparel.

Several of the new licensed categories will also be adopted and utilized in the 32 restaurant locations across California, Washington, Arizona, New Mexico and Hawaii and sold via the company’s online e-commerce store, as well as being distributed via national big box, specialty and grocery retailers.

“As we come close to celebrating our 60^th anniversary in 2024, we felt it was now time to take the brand into new product categories that can extend the core dining experience,” says Deborah Shapiro, vice president, growth, Black Angus Steakhouse. “Our signature steak sauce has already proven that the consumer is hungry for additional products to use and consume at home. We chose Evolution because of their shared passion for our brand’s DNA and their entrepreneurial team. They have a vast history of building brand extensions on both the retail and wholesale sides of the industry."

“The Black Angus brand is the original American steakhouse and one of the most revered and trusted brands in the U.S food and beverage business,” says Travis J. Rutherford, founder and chief revenue officer, Evolution. “Serving more than 4 million guests annually and having over 450,000 monthly website visits, we see incredible market opportunity for high quality branded licensed products. The entire team at Evolution is excited to work with the Black Angus team to extend the brand across these new channels.”