The presentation, taking place on day two of this year’s BLE, will focus on Diversity & Inclusion efforts and new toy research.

ViacomCBS will share insights from its corporate Diversity & Inclusion efforts, with a specific focus on its recently conducted toy research, during Brand Licensing Europe’s second-day keynote.

Mark Kingston, senior vice president, International, ViacomCBS Consumer Products, will lead the keynote and review the impact on culture, community and industry from a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging. The keynote will also feature Ameeta Held, vice president, Insights and Business Strategy, referencing ViacomCBS’ original toy research, which details the importance of authentic representation in dolls and the impact on choice.

The keynote, which takes place in-person at BLE from 13:00-14:00 on Thursday 18th November, will also set the background as to why the consumer products and licensing community play such a pivotal role in diversity and inclusion.

Mark Kingston commented: “As an organisation we are dedicated to creating content that reflects the global audiences we serve, and within consumer products we are especially committed to ensuring our products are inclusive and representative. Our latest research shines a light on the important role our industry plays in our continued conversation around Diversity & Inclusion and I look forward to presenting our thoughts and findings alongside my colleagues at BLE.”

Ahead of ViacomCBS’ keynote, representatives from Black Lives Matter Licensing UK will take to the stage to talk about the group’s purpose, goals and activity in the sector to date.

Speaking about the keynote, Informa Markets’ VP of Licensing, Anna Knight, said: “It’s not possible to underestimate the importance of this keynote to our industry and I implore everyone who is attending BLE to pre-register now and secure a spot. Consumer products has a huge responsibility – and opportunity – to represent, embrace and empower diversity if we are to build a more inclusive and equal future for consumers across the world.”

ViacomCBS is one of over 150 exhibitors currently confirmed for BLE, which takes place in-person at ExCeL London from 17th-19th November, followed by an online event from 30th November – 1st December.

For more information on the event, visit the website here.