BRANDmate: A Fusion of Brand Power and Creative Experiences in Essen
Event Overview
On June 25th and 26th, the Grand Hall of the Zollverein Coal Mine in Essen will be transformed into a lively hub known as BRANDmate. This event serves as a significant gathering for individuals across the licensing industry, brand makers, and creative talents from various sectors. Its objective is to facilitate discussions, foster knowledge exchange, and promote creative experiences that highlight the potential of collaborations among brands.
Distinguished Participants and Innovative Concepts
BRANDmate is set to host renowned brands and companies, including Warner Bros. Discovery and RTL Consumer Products. Visitors can look forward to exciting installations and interactive experiences, such as a Reality-TV lounge initiated by El Cartel Media and a unique photo opportunity featuring a life-sized unicorn from the "Unicorn Academy". Furthermore, prominent industry players such as Hasbro, The Pokémon Company, and Mattel will showcase their contributions, demonstrating the event's commitment to highlighting the power of brands.
Newcomers Bring Fresh Perspectives
This year, BRANDmate is excited to welcome new participants like CNC Cosmetics, which emphasizes the rising importance of licensed products in the beauty sector. French brand La Plume Dorée is another fresh face, focusing on luggage and stationery products. New agency Crexpro will impress attendees with standout cosplay performances, further enriching the event's vibrant atmosphere.
During the two-day affair, about 20 dynamic Walking Acts, facilitated by Vontz, are set to engage guests throughout the venue. The popular "BLINDmate" series will also return, creating short and spontaneous collaborations among key industry figures. Additionally, a special autograph session featuring renowned cartoonist Ralph Ruthe will take place at the Kiddinx Media booth on June 25.
Comprehensive Insights and Networking Potential
In addition to its entertainment offerings, BRANDmate promises valuable insights through themed presentations. The program is organized into three main blocks that cover critical areas: "BRANDS for Future" will examine sustainability and brand longevity; "BRANDS for Mates" will delve into the dynamics of fandoms and community-building; and the focus on "BRANDS for Retail," conducted in collaboration with Licensing International Germany, will highlight effective practices in both physical and online commerce.
Separate networking zones will provide ample opportunities for spontaneous conversations and creative idea exchanges among attendees, enhancing the overall collaborative spirit of BRANDmate. Showcasing food and beverage offerings, the Grand Hall will host a bar operated by Freikopf, featuring a selection of non-alcoholic beverages in a relaxing environment, giving participants a chance to unwind.
Future Prospects for BRANDmate
Christian Ulrich, the managing director of BRANDmate, emphasizes the event’s intention to cultivate a space where creativity thrives, asserting, "Our goal is to not only make brands visible but to enable attendees to experience them firsthand. The blend of business interactions and experiential activities is what makes BRANDmate truly special."
BRANDmate aspires to serve as a catalyst for innovative partnerships, uniting brands, businesses, and potential collaborators from a variety of sectors. With the next edition set for June 25-26, 2025, at the Zollverein's Grand Hall, this event represents a unique opportunity for industry professionals to gather and collaborate.
For more information about this transformative B2B networking event focused on licensing and brand collaborations, please visit
BRANDmate’s official website.