Simon Gresswell Launches Sglp Licencing Consultancy

Simon Gresswell, former Senior Licensing Executive at IMG, has officially launched SGLP Ltd, a new independent sports licensing consultancy.

Delivering strategic development of new and existing licensing, merchandise, retail, promotions and partnership programmes and new business opportunities, SGLP will serve national and international sports events, federations, leagues, associations, brands and retailers.

Gresswell, who is Managing Director of SGLP, said: “The increased relevance and importance of sports licensing, undoubtedly accelerated by the acute economic impact of the pandemic on sport, can benefit from creative and adaptable approaches to licensing rights and asset activation. We will initially focus on major team sports nationally and internationally and delivery via selected retail channels and partnerships and the deeper integration of licensing into the wider commercial plans and strategies of both rights holders and retailers”.

“There is significant growth potential for sports licensing, not only for fan engagement and retention, but also as lasting touchpoints for sports events, teams, clubs and leagues.”

Gresswell spent 11 years at IMG where he was Vice President EMEA & International Licensing managing clients and working on projects for group clients such as the R&A for The Open and BCCI for the IPL, whilst also acquiring rights and activating licensing, merchandising and promotions for events such as UEFA EURO 2016 and Royal Ascot. 

He also worked extensively with MLB and Volkswagen.

He left IMG in 2017 and joined Sanrio, home to Japanese and global character icon, Hello Kitty and the classic Mr Men Little Miss portfolio, as Chief Operating Officer, EMEA. More recently he has worked on a project for Rugby League World Cup 2021, prior to the full launch of the company.

SGLP is initially working within cricket, rugby union and football with new client announcements in the pipeline and the company is also working with selected retailers and initiating specific charity and sport partnerships, including Prostate Cancer UK, to increase awareness and raise funds through “a variety of sports events and personality-driven initiatives.

“There’s a real reset mindset in sport at present,” added Gresswell. “Delivery of sports content, the content itself and retail channels are all in transition and will continue to evolve and adapt to whatever our lifestyles are, going forward. 

“Sport is a proven force for good and for change in many underprivileged areas of the world, but it’s role in providing health and mental health benefits to all segments of the population, is also more important than ever, re-engaging fans and new fans, re-encouraging participation and re-exciting viewers and supporters as much off the field, as on it, whilst also potentially aligning with and supporting other great causes that have been so dreadfully affected and burdened in these unprecedented times.”