University of Kentucky Renew CLC Partnership

The University of Kentucky (UK) today announced it has extended its partnership agreement with The Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC), buy an affiliate of IMG College, to continue managing its domestic U.S. trademark licensing program through 2018.

CLC will also maintain its partnership with the University to manage its international trademark licensing rights. 

Kentucky, a CLC partner institution since 1985, will continue to gain access to leading brand protection, brand management, and brand development services through a comprehensive trademark licensing program customized by CLC, which currently represents nearly 200 collegiate properties nationwide. Kentucky will also continue to benefit from CLC’s proven licensing services, which afford the University the opportunity to contract with best-in-class licensees that advance its goals and marketplace position.

“Throughout our 27-year partnership with CLC, the Kentucky licensing program has experienced tremendous growth in the sale of licensed merchandise, including a 40 percent increase in royalties in 2011-12 over the previous year,” said Jason Schlafer, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Corporate & University Relations, University of Kentucky. “We value CLC’s knowledge and experience in the collegiate licensing industry, which will help us further grow our program and expand Kentucky’s market presence.”

Through nearly three decades of partnership, CLC has worked closely with the University of Kentucky to expand its retail presence in the marketplace, and to leverage national licensing programs for the University such as the College Vault, a vintage inspired collection of products, Victoria’s Secret PINK, and Old Navy. 

CLC has also helped Kentucky capitalize on hot market opportunities including its 1996, 1998, and 2012 basketball national championships.

“We are honored to extend our long-term relationship with the University of Kentucky to continue building on the success of its licensing program,” said Cory Moss, Senior VP & Managing Director, The Collegiate Licensing Company. “Kentucky has a tradition-rich history with a national base of supporters, and we look forward to continuing to help the University connect its passionate fans to the renowned UK brand.”

Kentucky is one of 13 schools in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) represented by CLC including The University of Alabama, University of Arkansas, Auburn University, University of Florida, University of Georgia, University of Missouri, University of Mississippi, Louisiana State University, University of South Carolina, University of Tennessee, Texas A&M University, and Vanderbilt University. CLC also represents the Southeastern Conference.

IMG College, an affiliate of CLC and creator of the premier national marketing platform in college sports, has represented Kentucky’s multimedia rights since 1974.