Universal Pictures Forms In-House Licensing Group

Universal Partnerships and Licensing, the studio's newly formed in-house division, will now oversee all consumer product licensing, film and home entertainment promotions and corporate partnerships for its theatrical, home entertainment, theme parks and stage productions.

UP&L is the combination of the studio's two existing groups, Consumer Products Group and Universal Studios Partnerships.

Stephanie Sperber will lead the new division as executive vice president. The group will also be comprised of Amy Taylor as senior vice president of North America promotions, worldwide licensing and retail development, David O'Connor as senior vice president of brand management and marketing services and Stephanie Testa as vice president of corporate sponsorships.

The new UP&L is a division of Universal Studios, part of NBC Universal.