Royal Air Force Confirms IMG as Licensing Agent

The Royal Air Force has confirmed that it has signed IMG as its new worldwide licensing agent, as revealed by License! Global on May 5.

The portfolio of brands under the RAF's wings include the historic Winged Eagle badge and the Roundel trade mark and, included in the deal for the first time, the Red Arrows trade mark and associated photography.

The portfolio also includes the RAF Falcons Parachute display team, the RAF Museum and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Development of the brands is already under way. The RAF launched action figures, a fast jet and role-play kits as part of the HM Armed Forces toy line earlier in May.

"We have already identified a number of distinct opportunities in specific product categories, which will celebrate the brand's attributes and be built on consumer touch points, from its proud history to its modern-day, hi-tech profile," says Simon Gresswell, vice president of licensing at IMG.

 ÒWe are extremely pleased to be entering into partnership with IMG in order to further develop the Royal Air Force Brand, a brand that already holds iconic status in its territories,Ó says Squadron Leader Stuart Balfour, head of RAF licensing and marketing.Ó Indeed we see IMG as the ideal company to enable us to significantly increase both the reach of our brand and the understanding of the ethos and values of the Royal Air Force.Ó